(Public Pack)Agenda Document for Council, 20/01/2016 18:15

Legal & Governance Reform David Wilcock Head of Legal and Governance Reform

Governance & Committee Services Floor 2, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale, OL16 1XU

Phone: 01706 647474 Website: www.rochdale.gov.uk To: All Members of the Council Enquiries to: Peter Thompson e-mail: [email protected] Telephone: 01706 924715 Date: 12th January 2016

Dear Councillor,

You are requested to attend the meeting of Council to be held in the Council Chamber at Rochdale Town Hall on Wednesday, 20th January 2016 at 6.15 pm.

Deadlines for submissions in respect of this meeting are as follows: –

Tuesday before Council Noon Notification of questions to representatives on Joint (19th January 2016) Authorities and Outside Bodies and to Portfolio Holders and Committee Chairs.

Notification of amendments to proposals and recommendations being submitted to Council.

Notifications should be forwarded to Mark Hardman and Peter Thompson, on behalf of the Chief Executive.

The agenda and supporting papers are attached.

If you require advice on any agenda item involving a possible Declaration of Interest which could affect your right to speak and/or vote, please contact staff in the Governance and Committee Services Team at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting.

Yours Faithfully

David Wilcock Head of Legal and Governance Reform Rochdale Borough Council

COUNCIL

Wednesday, 20th January 2016 at 6.15 pm

Council Chamber - Rochdale Town Hall

AGENDA

Apologies for Absence 1. Mayor's Announcements 2. Declarations of Interest 1 - 2 Members are requested to indicate at this stage any items on the agenda in which they intend to declare an interest. Members are reminded that, in accordance with the Localism Act 2011 and the Council's adopted Code of Conduct, they must declare the nature of any personal or discloseable pecuniary interest required of them and, in the case of any discloseable pecuniary interest, withdraw from the meeting during consideration of the item, unless permitted otherwise within the Code of Conduct. 3. Minutes 3 - 7 To authorise the signing of the minutes of the meeting of the Council held on 21st October 2015. 4. 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. 5. Notices of Motion To note that no Motions have been submitted in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 11 for consideration at this meeting. 6. Cabinet Recommendations: 8 - 104 Recommendations of the Cabinet in respect of the following items to be reported:- (a) Gambling Licensing Policy (b) Licensing Policy 7. Update on Cities and Devolution Bill 105 - 107 8. Appointments to Serve on the Board of Rochdale Development 108 - 109 Agency 9. Appointment of Independent Persons 110 - 111 10. Nomination of Deputy Mayor 2016/17 112 - 113 11. Members' Quarterly Reports 114 - 174 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 and Lead Member for Regeneration (b) The Cabinet Member for Business, Skills and Employment (c) The Cabinet Member for Children's Services (d) The Cabinet Member for Adult Care (e) The Cabinet Member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing (f) The Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Communities (g) The Cabinet Member for Housing and Environment (h) The Cabinet Member for Corporate and Regulation (i) The Cabinet Member for Finance (j) The Chair of Heywood Township Committee (k) The Chair of Middleton Township Committee (l) The Chair of Pennines Township Committee (m) The Chair of Rochdale Township Committee (n) The Chair of the Communities, Regeneration and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee (o) The Chair of the Health Schools and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee (p) The Chair of the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee 12. Representatives on Joint Authorities and Outside Bodies 175 – 182 To permit questions to representatives on any Joint Authority or Outside Body, where received. (a) The Representative to the Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority (b) Report of a Representative to Transport for Greater Manchester (c) Report of the Representative to the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority (d) Report of the Representative to the Armed/Reserve Forces 13. Greater Manchester Combined Authority 183 - 202 Minutes of the meetings held on 30th October, 27th November and 18th December 2015 for information. 14. Joint Meetings of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and 203 - 216 the AGMA Executive Board Minutes of the meetings held on 30th October, 27th November and 18th December 2015 for information. DECLARATION OF INTERESTS

IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CODE OF CONDUCT ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON 25TH JULY 2012, MEMBERS ARE REQUIRED TO DECLARE DISCLOSABLE PECUNIARY INTERESTS, PERSONAL INTERESTS AND PREJUDICIAL INTERESTS (LISTED ON THEIR REGISTER OF INTERESTS).

MEMBERS SHOULD REFER TO THE CODE OF CONDUCT AND/OR THE MONITORING OFFICER AND/OR THEIR DECLARATION FOR FURTHER GUIDANCE

MEETING AND DATE Indicate either Nature of Interest  Discloseable Pecuniary Interest OR …………………………….  Personal Interest OR  Personal and Prejudicial interest Agenda item

Signed………………………………………………………………………………………… Please print name…………………………………………………………………………………………..

IF A MEMBER HAS A DISCLOSEABLE PECUNIARY INTEREST THAT HAS NOT BEEN INCLUDED ON THEIR REGISTER SUBMISSION, THEY ARE REQUIRED BY LAW TO UPDATE THEIR REGISTER ENTRY WITHIN 28 DAYS. FAILURE TO PROVIDE PROPER NOTIFICATION IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE.

THIS FORM, INCLUDING ‘NIL’ ENTRIES, MUST BE GIVEN TO THE GOVERNANCE AND COMMITTEE OFFICER NO LATER THAN AT THE END OF THE MEETING Summary of discloseable pecuniary interests, personal interests and prejudicial interests.

Disclosable pecuniary interests A ‘disclosable pecuniary interest’ is an interest of yourself, or of your partner if you are aware of your partner's interest, within the descriptions set out in the table below. "Partner" means a spouse or civil partner, or a person with whom you are living as husband or wife, or a person with whom you are living as if you are civil partners.

Subject Description Employment, office, Any employment, office, trade, profession or vocation carried on for profit trade, profession or or gain vocation Sponsorship Any payment or provision of any other financial benefit (other than from the Council) made or provided within the 12 month period prior to notification of the interest in respect of any expenses incurred by you in carrying out duties as a member, or towards your election expenses. Contracts Any contract made between you or your partner (or a body in which you or your partner has a beneficial interest) and the Council - (a) under which goods or services are to be provided or works are to be executed: and (b) which has not been fully discharged. Land Any beneficial interest in land which is within the area of the Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council. Licences Any licence (alone or jointly with others) to occupy land in the area of the Borough for a month or longer. Corporate Tenancies Any tenancy where (to your knowledge) - (a) the landlord is the Council: and (b) the tenant is a body in which you or your partner has a beneficial interest. Securities Any beneficial interest in securities of a body where - (a) that body (to your knowledge) has a place of business or land in the area of the Borough; and (b) either – (i) the total nominal value of the securities exceeds £25,000 or one hundredth of the total issued share capital of that body; or (ii) if the share capital of that body is of more than one class, the total nominal value of the shares of any one class in which you or your partner has a beneficial interest exceeds one hundredth of the total issued share capital of that class.

Personal Interests You have a personal interest in any business of the authority where it relates to or is likely to affect - (a) any body of which you are in a position of general control or management and to which you are appointed or nominated by your authority; (b) any body - (i) exercising functions of a public nature; (ii) directed to charitable purposes; or (iii) one of whose principal purposes includes the influence of public opinion or policy (including any political party or trade union), of which you are in a position of general control or management; (c) the interests of any person from whom you have received a gift or hospitality with an estimated value of at least £25.

Prejudicial Interests Where you have a personal interest you also have a prejudicial interest in that business where the interest is one which a member of the public with knowledge of the relevant facts would reasonably regard as so significant that it is likely to prejudice your judgement of the public interest and where that business - (a) Affects your financial position or the financial position of a person or body described above; or (b) Relates to the determining of any approval, consent, licence, permission or registration in relation to you or any person or body described above.

MEMBERS ARE ADVISED TO REFER TO THE FULL DESCRIPTIONS CONTAINED IN THE COUNCIL’S CODE OF CONDUCT ADOPTED ON 25TH JULY 2012. COUNCIL

MINUTES OF MEETING Wednesday, 21 October 2015

PRESENT: The Mayor (Councillor Surinder Biant) Councillors Ali Ahmed, Shefali Farooq Ahmed, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shakil Ahmed, Daalat Ali, Sultan Ali, Beswick, Cecile Biant, Surinder Biant, Blundell, Boriss, Brett, Brosnan, Burke, Butterworth, Clegg, Dearnley, Duckworth, Dutton, Neil Emmott, Susan Emmott, Emsley, Furlong, James Gartside, Jane Gartside, Greenall, Hartley, Heakin, Holly, Hornby, Hussain, Joinson, Kelly, Lambert, Martin, McCarthy, Meredith, Mir, Nickson, O'Neill, O'Rourke, Paolucci, Rashid, Rowbotham, Rush, Sheerin, Stott, Sullivan, Wardle, Wazir, West, Williams, Winkler and Zaheer

OFFICERS: S. Rumbelow (Chief Executive), S. Downey (Director of Adult Services), G. Hopper (Director of Children’s Services), A. Fallon (Director of Public Health and Wellbeing), M. Widdup (Director of Neighbourhoods), J. Searle (Director of Economy), D. Wilcock and M. Hardman (Resources Directorate)

ALSO IN ATTENDANCE: Seven members of the public

APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE: Councillors Bell, Farnell, Linden, Murphy, Robinson and Zaman

MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS 31 The Mayor advised of the recent deaths of former Councillor Ted Flynn who represented the Castleton Ward from May 1998 through to May 2011 and who had served as Cabinet member for Community Safety and Leisure and as Chair of Rochdale Planning Sub-Committee for several years; of Mr. Barrie Bernstein who was admitted as a Freeman of the Borough on 26th November 2006 in acknowledgement of his services to the community of the Borough, which included promotion of the establishment of the Rochdale Development Agency; of Mr. Alan Fenton, a former Treasurer of the Council; of Insp. Gary Hall, formerly of the Heywood and Middleton Division of Greater Manchester Police; and of the Rt Hon Michael Meacher, MP for the adjoining constituency of Oldham West and Royton who had died that day.

The Council observed a period of silence in their memory.

ADDITIONAL ITEM OF BUSINESS 32 The Mayor advised of the consideration of a further item of business “Attendance at Meetings” as urgent business, as a decision was required prior to the next meeting of the Council.

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 33 There were no declarations of interests.

MINUTES 34 DECIDED – That the Minutes of the Meeting of the Council held on 15th July 2015 be approved as a correct record.

PUBLIC QUESTIONS AND PETITIONS 35 There were no matters for consideration under this item. CONSIDERATION OF PLANNING APPLICATIONS 36 The following Motion, of which Notice had been given in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 11, was moved by Councillor Dearnley and seconded by Councillor Duckworth:-

“In light of recent high profile and controversial planning applications and difficult planning committee meetings, we would urge that the Planning Department adopt consistency in all reports to Planning Committees and Sub-Committees which relate to proposed housing developments, clearly demonstrating the housing supply required to ensure greater transparency for both Councillors and the public of the Borough”.

An amendment to the Motion was moved by Councillor Williams and seconded by Councillor Neil Emmott such that the Motion be approved subject to the deletion of all the words after “planning committee meetings” and the insertion of

“Council notes with concern: 1. The continued erosion of local planning powers by Central Government and the ability of local people to determine important planning applications which have a major impact on the future of local communities. 2. The threat to our open green spaces and greenbelt by Government decisions which give priority to developers at the expense of the views and needs of the borough’s residents.

Council also notes the need to:- 3. Ensure the maximum transparency and consistency of information provided to councillors and members of the public. 4. The need for improved efficiency and consistency in dealing with planning applications throughout the borough and to minimise the Council’s risk, both legally and financially, in adhering to the Government’s centralised planning controls.

To this end, Council instructs the Chief Executive to review the way in which the Council determines planning applications to ensure a more efficient and improved planning process, but also ensuring local residents and Councillors are given every opportunity to be involved in the decision-making process”.

Upon being put to the vote the amendment was declared to be carried

Upon being put to the vote the Motion was declared to be carried. It was therefore

DECIDED – That in light of recent high profile and controversial planning applications and difficult planning committee meetings, Council notes with concern: 1. The continued erosion of local planning powers by Central Government and the ability of local people to determine important planning applications which have a major impact on the future of local communities. 2. The threat to our open green spaces and greenbelt by Government decisions which give priority to developers at the expense of the views and needs of the borough’s residents.

REVIEW OF POLITICAL BALANCE ON COMMITTEES 2015/16 37 The Council considered a report of the Head of Legal and Governance Reform which informed Members that following a change to the composition of political groups on the Council there was a requirement to report on the implications arising for political balance requirements and nomination rights to Committees and Sub-Committees under the provisions of the Local Government (Committees and Political Groups) Regulations 1990.

DECIDED – That the revised political balance allocation for 2015/16, as set out in the appendix to the submitted report, be noted.

APPOINTMENTS UPDATE 38 The Council considered amendments to the appointments made at the Annual Meeting of the Council held on 19th May 2015 and at the Council meeting held on 15th July 2015 and a number of further appointments that were required.

DECIDED – That (1) the following appointments made under delegated powers and effective from 27th August 2015 be noted:- (a) Corporate and Overview Scrutiny Committee – Councillor Rush appointed to the vacant position; (b) Joint Consultative Committee – Councillor Rush appointed in place of Councillor Farnell; (c) Rochdale Boroughwide Housing Representative Body – Councillor Rush appointed in place of Councillor Mir; (d) Employment and Equalities Committee – Councillor Rush appointed by substitute member in place of Councillor Sultan Ali; (2) it be noted that Councillor Rush’s position on the Planning and Licensing Committee results from a Labour Group, rather than Liberal Democrat Group, nomination (3) Councillor Dearnley be appointed in place of Councillor Holly on the Borough Regeneration Steering Group; (4) Councillor Rowbotham to be appointed to act as the Council’s AGMA Scrutiny Link.

ASSOCIATION OF GREATER MANCHESTER AUTHORITIES - MEMBERSHIP 39 The Council considered a report of the Head of Legal and Governance Reform advising of a recommendation from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) that the GMCA be granted membership of the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) which would permit the Interim Mayor of Greater Manchester to be appointed a member of the AGMA Executive.

DECIDED – That the Council agreed to the GMCA becoming a member of AGMA in its own right through clause 18 of the AGMA Constitution. COUNCIL CONSTITUTION 40 The Council received a report of the Head of Legal and Governance Reform advising of recent amendments made to the Council’s Constitution as set out in a schedule appended to the submitted report.

DECIDED – That the amendments to the Council’s constitution, as set out in the schedule appended to the submitted report, be noted.

SAFER COMMUNITIES PLAN 2015-18 41 The Council considered a report presenting for the approval and adoption the recommendations of the Cabinet in respect of the 2015-2018 Safer Communities Plan as part of the Council’s Budget and Policy Framework.

DECIDED – That the Safer Communities Plan for 2015-2018 be approved and adopted.

OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEES WORK PROGRAMMES 2015/2016 42 The Council considered a report of the Head of Legal and Governance Reform presenting the Work Programmes for 2015/16 for each of the Council’s three Overview and Scrutiny Committees in accordance with Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rule No 7.

DECIDED – That the 2015/16 Work Programmes of the Communities, Regeneration and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee, the Health, Schools and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee, as appended to the submitted report, be noted.

MEMBERS' QUARTERLY REPORTS 43 Members presented their Quarterly Reports and received questions from Members of the Council as follows:-

(a) The Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Regeneration (b) The Cabinet Member for Children’s Services (c) The Cabinet Member for Adult Care (d) The Cabinet Member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing (e) The Cabinet Member for Housing and Environment (f) The Cabinet Member for Corporate and Regulation (g) The Cabinet Member for Finance (h) The Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Communities (i) The Cabinet Member for Business, Skills and Employment (j) The Chair of Heywood Township Committee (k) The Chair of Middleton Township Committee (l) The Chair of Pennines Township Committee (m) The Chair of Rochdale Township Committee (n) The Chair of the Communities, Regeneration and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee (o) The Chair of the Health, Schools and Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee (p) The Chair of the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee (q) The Representative to Transport for Greater Manchester (r) The Representative to the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority (s) The Representative to the Armed/Reserve Forces (t) The Representative to the Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority

DECIDED – That the reports be noted. ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS 44 The Head of Legal Governance Reform invited the Council to consider authorising an absence from attendance at meetings in accordance with S85(1) of the Local Government Act 1972.

DECIDED – That, pursuant to s85 (1) of the Local Government Act 1972, the Council authorises the absence from meeting of the authority of Councillor Murphy on the grounds of ill health beyond the six months specified under the above Act. Subject: Gambling Licensing Policy Update Status: For Publication

Report to: Planning and Licensing Committee Date: 7th December 2015 Communities, Regeneration and Environment Date: 10th December 2015 O& S Committee Cabinet Date 14th January 2016 Council Date: 20th January 21016

Cabinet Member: Councillor Janet Emsley

Report of: Director of Public Health Author: Beverley Wilkinson

Author Email: Tel: Tel: 01706 924178 [email protected]

Comments from Statutory Monitoring Officer: Yes Officers: Section 151 Officer: Yes Key Decision: yes

1 Purpose of the report 1.1 To enable the Council to meet its statutory obligation to adopt and publish a Gambling Policy, in accordance with section 349 of the Gambling Act 2005, prior to the 31st January 2016.

1.2 To report on the results of the consultation on the Councils draft Gambling Licensing Policy Statement, and to seek agreement from Members on amendments, where necessary, and to recommend adoption of the gambling licensing policy to full Council.

2. Recommendations

2.1 Planning and Licensing Committee – to consider for consultative purposes the draft Gambling Licensing Policy.

2.2 Communities, Regeneration and Environment O&S Committee - to consider for consultative purposes and scrutiny of the draft Gambling Licensing Policy.

2.3 Cabinet - Members consider the responses to the consultation on the draft Gambling Licensing Policy statement, and agree the amendments where necessary.

2.4 Council - the revised Gambling Licensing Policy statement be recommended to full Council for adoption.

3 Background 3.1 The Gambling Act 2005 introduced a new regime for gambling regulation sharing responsibility between local authorities and the Gambling Commission. 3.2 The Council is required to review its policy statement every three years to meet its statutory requirement and adopt and publish a Gambling Licensing Policy.

3.3 A draft statement of Gambling Licensing Policy has been updated to take into account the LGA’s guidance, Licensing Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP) issued by the Gambling Commission, and other Gambling Licensing Policies. The draft policy is attached at Appendix 1, the amendments to the Gambling Licensing Policy are highlighted in red.

3.4 Under the legislation the Council has to consult with the Responsible Authorities under the Act, national bodies, representatives of licensees, residents, and with representatives of other businesses. A list of consultees forms part of the draft Gambling Licensing Policy.

3.5 The consultation commenced on the 17th August 2015 and was closed on the 6th November 2015.

3.6 The responses which the Authority received during the consultation are attached as Appendix 2.

Alternatives considered 3. None, as it is a statutory duty under the Gambling Act 2005.

4 Financial Implications 4.1 None.

5 Legal Implications 5.1 There are no legal implications other than those identified elsewhere in the report.

6 Personnel Implications 6.1 There are no personnel implications in this report.

7 Corporate Priorities 7.1 PEOPLE- Under the Gambling Act 2005 there are licensing objectives one of them is “protecting children and other vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling”. Part of the protection which gambling premises have in place is that they are configured so that children are not able to observe gambling where they are prohibited from participating.

8. Risk Assessment Implications 8.1 There are no specific risk issues for members to consider arising from this report.

9. Equalities Impacts 9.1 Workforce Equality Impacts Assessment Where are no (significant) workforce equality issues arising from this report.

9.2 Equality/Community Impact Assessments

There are no (significant) equality/community issues arising from this report.

Background Papers Document Place of Inspection None 1

APPENDIX

Equality Impact Assessment

What are you assessing? Please tick the appropriate box below.

Function Strategy Policy Project Other, please specify below

Ganbling Licensing Policy Update

Service: Section:

Public Health Public Protection -Licensing

Responsible Officer: Name of function/strategy/ policy/ project assessed:

Beverley Wilkinson Gambling Licensing Policy

Date of Assessment:16.11.15

Officers Involved:

Beverley Wilkinson

Jay Alom 2

1.What is the purpose of the function/strategy/policy/project assessed?

(Briefly describe the aims, objectives and purpose of the function/strategy/policy/project)

The Gambling Act 2005 introduced a new regime for gambling regulation sharing responsibility between local authorities and the Gambling Commission. The Council is required to review its policy statement every three years to meet its statutory requirement to adopt and publish a Gambling Licensing Policy.

2.Who are the key stakeholders?

Gambling Premises, Responsible Authorities, Elected Members, members of the public.

3. What is the scope of this equality impact assessment? That is, what is included in this assessment.

The current Gambling Licensing Policy

Gambling Commission Guidance

LGA’s template

Other Local Authority Policies

4.Which needs is this function/strategy/ policy/ project designed to meet?

This Policy is designed to ensure that gambling premises are operated in line with the licensing objectives:

 Preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, being associated with crime and disorder or being used to support crime.  Ensuring gambling is conducted in a fair and open way.  Protecting children and other vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling

It sets out the Councils approach to gambling. 3

5.Has a needs analysis been undertaken?

It is a statutory duty to revise the policy 3 yearly.

6.Who is affected by this function/strategy/ policy/ project?

The changes to the policy directly impact upon gambling premises licence holders. They also impact upon officers who are called upon to implement the changes and regulate premises and indirectly the public who safety should be more strongly protected.

7.Who has been involved in the review or development of this function/strategy/ policy/ project and who has been consulted? State your consultation/involvement methodology.

The policy has been revised with the input of the Service Manager licensing, team leader (projects), LGA guidance, Gambling Commission guidance and wide consultation including trade organisations, local businesses, Councillors, responsible authorities, members of the public

8.What data have you considered for this assessment and have any gaps in the data been identified. What action will be taken to close any data gaps?

The policy has been revised using the LGA template, and gambling Commission guidance and considered other AGMA authorities’ gambling licensing policies so that there is a consistent approach to gambling. 4

9.Are there any other documents or strategies which are linked to this assessment? If so, please include hyperlinks to these documents below, where available. http://opengov.ambervalley.gov.uk/docarc/docviewer.aspx?docguid=2f308831b212414c9298b1184530340f

Gambling Commission Guidance

10.What impact will this function/strategy/policy/project have on all the protected groups? This includes both positive and potentially negative impacts.

If People who are socio economically disadvantaged begin to gamble beyond their means then they could get into financial difficulties fairly quickly. Within gambling premises there is a strong relationship in knowing their customer. I have discussed this with the Gambling Commission and the social responsibility aspect of operator. Generally the operators/staff will know the persons expected spends and will notice very quickly if trigger behaviours commence. Trigger behaviours include trying to borrow money from other gamblers, chasing losses, mood swings and sometimes aggressive behaviours. When staff detect changes they do intervene. This interaction has proven successful and will usually lead to sign posting the individual to the bodies who can provide help. E.g. Gamcare. Guidance is contained within the Gambling Commissions code of practice and is outlined within the Councils revised policy.

Race Equality

The revisions will not directly impact .

Disabled People

The revisions will not directly impact this group.

Carers

The revisions will not directly impact this group. 5

Gender

The revisions will not directly impact.

Age

There are age restrictions imposed on the different types of gambling premises, these restrictions are closely monitored by licence holders and their staff, the Licensing service regulates this too; any complaints of allowing underage people into premises would be fully investigated.

Armed Forces and Ex-Armed Forces Personnel

The revisions will not directly impact this group.

Sexual Orientation

The revisions will not directly impact.

Gender Reassignment

The revisions will not directly impact.

Religion or Belief

The revisions will not directly impact this group.

Pregnant Women or Those on Maternity Leave 6

The revisions will not directly impact this group.

Marriage or Civil Partnership

The revisions will not directly impact this group.

11.What are your main conclusions from this analysis?

As there is wide consultation built into the revision of the Gambling Licensing Policy process we will update the policy as the reports progress through the Committee process.

12.What are your recommendations?

See above (11)

13.What actions are you going to take to address the findings of this assessment? Please attach an action plan including details of designated officers responsible for completing these actions.

Signed (Completing Officer)

Date: 16.11.15

Signed (Head of Service): ______Date:______7

Equality Impact Assessment Action Plan 2014/15

Action Outcome Target Date For Resource Lead Officer Completion Implications APPENDIX 1

Gambling Licensing Policy Statement 2016-2019 Rochdale Borough Council January 2016

1 POLICY STATEMENT Under Section 349 of the Gambling Act 2005

Contents Item Page Introduction 3

Part A - Policy Statement 1. The licensing objectives 4 2. Introduction 4 3. Declaration 5 4. Responsible Authorities 6 5. Interested parties 7 6. Exchange of information 7 7. Enforcement 8 8. Licensing authority functions

Part B - Premises Licences 9. General Principles 9 10. Adult Gaming Centres 17 11. (Licensed) Family Entertainment Centres 17 12. Casinos 18 13. Bingo 18 14. Betting premises 19 15. Tracks 19 16. Travelling Fairs 21 17. Provisional Statements 21 18. Reviews 22

Part C - Permits / Temporary and Occasional Use Notices 19. Unlicensed Family Entertainment Centre gaming machine 24 permits 20. (Alcohol) Licensed premises gaming machine permits 25 21. Prize Gaming Permits 26 22. Club Gaming and Club Machines Permits 26 23. Temporary Use Notices 28 24. Occasional Use Notices 28 25. Small Society Lotteries 28

Part D – Licence Conditions & Codes of Practice (LCCP) 26. Risk Assessments 29/30 27. Local Area Profile 31

Appendix A - Consultees 32 Appendix B - Responsible Authorities 33

2 Introduction

This statement of Policy in relation to the Gambling functions that this Authority regulates sets out the approach that will be taken when dealing with permissions its grants and enforces thereafter.

This Policy also identifies how the Authority will seek to promote the licensing objectives under the Act, namely:-

 Preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, being associated with crime and disorder or being used to support crime.

 Ensuring gambling is conducted in a fair and open way.

 Protecting children and other vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling.

Partnerships are important to us and with this in mind we will be working closely with the Gambling Commission, the Police and the other responsible authorities named within the Act. We will also provide guidance and support, where possible, to the trade, residents and businesses.

All decisions that are made in relation to gambling will be made having taken into account the three objectives and each application will be dealt with on its merits.

This policy will come into effect on the 31st January 2016 and will be reviewed no later than the 31st January 2019.

In carrying out its gambling functions this Authority will have regard to its Policy and the Guidance issued by the Gambling Commission.

An equalities impact assessment has been conducted in relation to this Policy and is available upon request.

3 Policy Statement

PART A

1.0 The Licensing Objectives

1.1 In exercising most of their functions under the Gambling Act 2005, licensing authorities must have regard to the licensing objectives as set out in section 1 of the Act. The licensing objectives are:  Preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, being associated with crime or disorder or being used to support crime  Ensuring that gambling is conducted in a fair and open way  Protecting children and other vulnerable persons from being harmed or exploited by gambling

1.2 It should be noted that the Gambling Commission has stated: “The requirement in relation to children is explicitly to protect them from being harmed or exploited by gambling”.

1.3 This licensing authority is aware that, as per Section 153, in making decisions about premises licences and temporary use notices it should aim to permit the use of premises for gambling in so far as it thinks it’s:

 in accordance with any relevant code of practice issued by the Gambling Commission  in accordance with any relevant guidance issued by the Gambling Commission  reasonably consistent with the licensing objectives; and  in accordance with the authority’s statement of licensing policy

2.0 Introduction

2.1 Licensing authorities are required by the Gambling Act 2005 to publish a statement of the principles which they propose to apply when exercising their functions. This statement must be published at least every three years. The statement must also be reviewed from “time to time” and any amended parts re-consulted upon. The statement must be then re-published.

2.2 The Authority consulted widely upon this statement before finalising and publishing. A list of those persons consulted is provided in Appendix A.

2.3 The Gambling Act requires that the following parties are consulted by Licensing Authorities:

 The Chief Officer of Police;

4  One or more persons who appear to the authority to represent the interests of persons carrying on gambling businesses in the authority’s area;  One or more persons who appear to the authority to represent the interests of persons who are likely to be affected by the exercise of the authority’s functions under the Gambling Act 2005.

Our consultation took place between 17th August 2015 and 6th November 2015 and we followed the HM Government code of Practice on Consultation (published July 2008) which is available at: http://bis.gov.uk/files/file47158.pdf

The full list of comments made and the consideration by the Council of those comments is available by request to: Beverley Wilkinson, Rochdale Borough Council Licensing Service, Floor 3, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale, OL16 1XU or via the Council’s website.

The policy was approved at a meeting of the Full Council on XXXX and was published via our website on XXXX. A copy is available for viewing upon request at the Council Offices.

2.4 It should be noted that this statement of licensing principles will not override the right of any person to make an application, make representations about an application, or apply for a review of a licence, as each will be considered on its own merits and according to the statutory requirements of the Gambling Act 2005.

2.5 The Authority is one of the 10 Metropolitan Districts of Greater Manchester.

2.6 With a population of 206,500, it occupies an area of 16,100 hectares and is based on the townships of Rochdale, Middleton, Heywood and Pennines.

2.7 The types and number of the premises within the Borough are as follows

TYPE OF PREMISES NUMBER OF PREMISES BINGO HALLS 3 BETTING PREMISES 34 ADULT GAMING CENTRES 9 FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTRES 1

3.0 Declaration

3.1 In producing the final statement, this licensing authority declares that it has had regard to the licensing objectives of the Gambling Act 2005, the Guidance to Licensing Authorities issued by the Gambling Commission, and any responses from those consulted on the statement.

5 4.0 Responsible Authorities

4.1 The licensing authority is required by regulations to state the principles it will apply in exercising its powers under Section 157(h) of the Act to designate, in writing, a body which is competent to advise the authority about the protection of children from harm. The principles are:  the need for the body to be responsible for an area covering the whole of the licensing authority’s area; and  the need for the body to be answerable to democratically elected persons, rather than any particular vested interest group.

4.2 In accordance with the suggestion in the Gambling Commission’s Guidance to Licensing Authorities, this authority designates the Local Safeguarding Children Board for this purpose.

4.3 The contact details of all the Responsible Authorities under the Gambling Act 2005 are available at Appendix B.

5.0 Interested parties

5.1 Interested parties can make representations about licence applications, or apply for a review of an existing licence. These parties are defined in the Gambling Act 2005 as follows: “For the purposes of this Part a person is an interested party in relation to an application for or in respect of a premises licence if, in the opinion of the licensing authority which issues the licence or to which the applications is made, the person- a) lives sufficiently close to the premises to be likely to be affected by the authorised activities, b) has business interests that might be affected by the authorised activities, or c) represents persons who satisfy paragraph (a) or (b)”

5.2 The licensing authority is required by regulations to state the principles it will apply in exercising its powers under the Gambling Act 2005 to determine whether a person is an interested party. The principles are:

5.2.1 Each case will be decided upon its merits. This authority will not apply a rigid rule to its decision making. It will consider the examples of considerations provided in the Gambling Commission’s Guidance to Local Authorities at 8.11 and 8.18. It will also consider the Gambling Commission's Guidance that "has business interests" should be given the widest possible interpretation and include partnerships, charities, faith groups and medical practices.

5.2.2 Interested parties can be persons who are democratically elected such as councillors and MP’s. No specific evidence of being asked to represent an interested person will be required as long as the councillor / MP represents the ward likely to be affected. Likewise, parish councils likely to be affected will be considered to be interested parties. Other than these however, this

6 authority will generally require written evidence that a person/body (e.g. an advocate / relative) ‘represents’ someone who either lives sufficiently close to the premises to be likely to be affected by the authorised activities and/or has business interests that might be affected by the authorised activities. A letter from one of these persons, requesting the representation, is sufficient.

5.2.3 If individuals wish to approach councillors to ask them to represent their views then care should be taken that the councillors are not part of the Licensing Committee dealing with the licence application. If there are any doubts then please contact the licensing section.

6.0 Exchange of Information

6.1 Licensing authorities are required to include in their statements the principles to be applied by the authority in exercising the functions under sections 29 and 30 of the Act with respect to the exchange of information between it and the Gambling Commission, and the functions under section 350 of the Act with the respect to the exchange of information between it and the other persons listed in Schedule 6 to the Act.

6.2 The principle that this licensing authority applies is that it will act in accordance with the provisions of the Gambling Act 2005 in its exchange of information which includes the provision that the Data Protection Act 1998 will not be contravened. The licensing authority will also have regard to any Guidance issued by the Gambling Commission on this matter, as well as any relevant regulations issued by the Secretary of State under the powers provided in the Gambling Act 2005.

6.3 Should any protocols be established as regards information exchange with other bodies then they will be made available.

7.0 Enforcement

7.1 Licensing authorities are required by regulation under the Gambling Act 2005 to state the principles to be applied by the authority in exercising the functions under Part 15 of the Act with respect to the inspection of premises; and the powers under section 346 of the Act to institute criminal proceedings in respect of the offences specified.

7.2 This licensing authority’s principles are that:

It will be guided by the Gambling Commission’s Guidance to Licensing Authorities and will endeavour to be:

 Proportionate: regulators should only intervene when necessary: remedies should be appropriate to the risk posed, and costs identified and minimised;  Accountable: regulators must be able to justify decisions, and be subject to public scrutiny;

7  Consistent: rules and standards must be joined up and implemented fairly;  Transparent: regulators should be open, and keep regulations simple and user friendly; and  Targeted: regulation should be focused on the problem, and minimise side effects.

7.3 As per the Gambling Commission’s Guidance for Licensing Authorities this licensing authority will endeavour to avoid duplication with other regulatory regimes so far as possible.

7.4 This authority inspects all premises annually and, where necessary, revisit premises as appropriate.

7.5 The main enforcement and compliance role for this licensing authority in terms of the Gambling Act 2005 is to ensure compliance with the premises licences and other permissions which it authorises. The Gambling Commission is the enforcement body for the operating and personal licences. It is also worth noting that concerns about manufacture, supply or repair of gaming machines will not be dealt with by the licensing authority but should be notified to the Gambling Commission.

7.6 This licensing authority will also keep itself informed of developments as regards the work of the Better Regulation Executive in its consideration of the regulatory functions of local authorities.

7.7 Bearing in mind the principle of transparency, this licensing authority’s enforcement/compliance protocols/written agreements will be available upon request to the licensing section. Our risk methodology will also be available upon request. 7.8 The Council will take account of the Gambling Commission’s guidance document issued in February 2015 (and any subsequent amendments) ‘Approach to Test Purchasing’ when considering making test purchases at gambling premises. The Council will also follow its own policies and procedures regarding the use of underage test purchasers. 7.9 Where there is a Primary Authority scheme in place, the Council will seek guidance from the Primary Authority before taking any enforcement action. Further information, including an index of all Primary Authority arrangements can be found at: https://primaryauthorityregister.info/par/index.php/home

8.0 Licensing Authority functions

8.1 Licensing Authorities are required under the Act to:  Be responsible for the licensing of premises where gambling activities are to take place by issuing Premises Licences  Issue Provisional Statements

8  Regulate members’ clubs and miners’ welfare institutes who wish to undertake certain gaming activities via issuing Club Gaming Permits and/or Club Machine Permits  Issue Club Machine Permits to Commercial Clubs  Grant permits for the use of certain lower stake gaming machines at unlicensed Family Entertainment Centres  Receive notifications from alcohol licensed premises (under the Licensing Act 2003) for the use of two or fewer gaming machines  Issue Licensed Premises Gaming Machine Permits for premises licensed to sell/supply alcohol for consumption on the licensed premises, under the Licensing Act 2003, where there are more than two machines  Register small society lotteries below prescribed thresholds  Issue Prize Gaming Permits  Receive and Endorse Temporary Use Notices  Receive Occasional Use Notices  Provide information to the Gambling Commission regarding details of licences issued (see section above on ‘information exchange)  Maintain registers of the permits and licences that are issued under these functions

8.2 It should be noted that licensing authorities will not be involved in licensing remote gambling at all, which is regulated by the Gambling Commission via operating licences.

PART B PREMISES LICENCES: CONSIDERATION OF APPLICATIONS

9.0 General Principles

9.1 Premises licences are subject to the requirements set-out in the Gambling Act 2005 and regulations, as well as specific mandatory and default conditions which are detailed in regulations issued by the Secretary of State. Licensing authorities are able to exclude default conditions and also attach others, where it is believed to be appropriate.

9.2 Decision –Making This licensing authority is aware that in making decisions about premises licences it should aim to permit the use of premises for gambling in so far as it thinks it:  in accordance with any relevant code of practice issued by the Gambling Commission;  in accordance with any relevant guidance issued by the Gambling Commission ;  reasonably consistent with the licensing objectives; and  in accordance with the authority’s statement of licensing policy.

9.3 It is appreciated that as per the Gambling Commission's Guidance to Licensing Authorities "moral objections to gambling are not a valid reason to

9 reject applications for premises licences" (except as regards any ‘no casino resolution’ – see section on casinos) and also that unmet demand is not criterion for a licensing authority. 9.4 The Licence Conditions and Code of Practice (LCCP) issued by the Gambling Commission places further onus on premises to complete a risk assessment based on code 8, the social responsibility code which will come into force on 6 April 2016. The council will have regard to this code when considering applications. This is covered in detail in Part D of this statement.

9.5 Definition of “premises” – in the Act,” Premises” is defined as including “any place”. Section 152 therefore prevents more than one premises licence applying to any place. But a single building could be subject to more than one premises licence, provided they are for different parts of the building and the different parts of the building can be reasonably regarded as being different premises. This approach has been taken to allow large multiple unit premises such as a pleasure park, pier, track or shopping mall to obtain discrete premises licences, where appropriate safeguards are in place. However, licensing authorities should pay particular attention if there are issues about sub-divisions of a single building or plot and should ensure that mandatory conditions relating to access between premises are observed.

9.6 The Gambling Commission states in the fourth edition of its Guidance to Licensing Authorities that “In most cases the expectation is that a single building / plot will be the subject of an application for a licence, for example, 32 High Street. But, that does not mean 32 High Street cannot be the subject of separate premises licences for the basement and ground floor, if they are configured acceptably. Whether different parts of a building can properly be regarded as being separate premises will depend on the circumstances. The location of the premises will clearly be an important consideration and the suitability of the division is likely to be a matter for discussion between the operator and the licensing officer. However, the commission does not consider that the areas of a building that are artificially or temporarily separated, for example by ropes or moveable partitions, can properly be regarded as different premises”.

9.7 This licensing authority takes particular note of the Gambling Commission’s Guidance to Licensing Authorities which states that: licensing authorities should take particular care in considering applications for multiple licences for a building and those relating to a discrete part of a building used for other (non-gambling) purposes. In particular they should be aware of the following:

 The third licensing objective seeks to protect children from being harmed by gambling. In practice that means not only preventing them from taking part in gambling, but also preventing them from being in close proximity to gambling. Therefore premises should be configured so that children are not invited to participate in, have accidental access to or closely observe gambling where they are prohibited from participating.

10  Entrances to and exits from parts of a building covered by one or more premises licences should be separate and identifiable so that the separation of different premises is not compromised and people do not “drift” into a gambling area. In this context it should normally be possible to access the premises without going through another licensed premises or premises with a permit.

 Customers should be able to participate in the activity names on the premises licence.

The Guidance also gives a list of factors which the licensing authority should be aware of, which may include:

 Do the premises have a separate registration for business rates  Is the premises’ neighbouring premises owned by the same person or someone else?  Can each of the premises be accessed from the street or a public passageway?  Can the premises only be accessed from any other gambling premises?

This authority will consider these and other relevant factors in making its decision, depending on all the circumstances of the case.

The Gambling Commission’s relevant access provisions for each premises type are reproduced below:

Casinos  The principal access entrance to the premises must be from a street (as defined at 7.26 of the Guidance)  No entrance to a casino must be from premises that are used wholly or mainly by children and/or young persons  No customer must be able to enter a casino directly from any other premises which holds a gambling premises licence

Adult Gaming Centre

 No customer must be able to access the premises directly from any other licensed gambling premises

Betting Shops

 Access must be from a street (as per para 7.26 Guidance to Licensing Authorities) or from another premises with a betting premises licence  No direct access from a betting shop to another premises used for the retail sale of merchandise or services. In effect there cannot be an entrance to a betting shop from a shop of any kind and you could not have a betting shop at the back of a café – the whole area would have to be licensed.

11 Tracks

 No customer should be able to access the premises directly from: - a casino - an adult gaming centre

Bingo Premises

 No customer must be able to access the premise directly from: - a casino - an adult gaming centre - a betting premises, other than a track

Family Entertainment Centre

 No customer must be able to access the premises directly from: - a casino - an adult gaming centre - a betting premises, other than a track

Part 7 of the Gambling Commission’s Guidance to Licensing Authorities contains further guidance on this issue, which this authority will also take into account in its decision-making.

9.8 Premises “ready for gambling” The Guidance states that a licence to use premises for gambling should only be issued in relation to premises that the licensing authority can be satisfied are going to be ready to be used for gambling in the reasonably near future, consistent with the scale of building or alterations required before the premises are brought into use.

If the construction of a premises is not yet complete, or if they need alteration, or if the applicant does not yet have a right to occupy them, then an application for a provisional statement should be made instead.

In deciding whether a premises licence can be granted where there are outstanding construction or alteration works at a premises, this authority will determine applications on their merits, applying a two stage consideration process:-

 First, whether the premises ought to be permitted to be used for gambling  Second, in order that if the premises were to be used for gambling the premises would be fit.

Applicants should note that this authority is entitled to decide that it is appropriate to grant a licence subject to conditions, but it is not obliged to grant such a licence.

More detailed examples of the circumstances in which such a licence may be granted can be found at paragraphs 7.59-7.66 of the Guidance.

12 9.9 Location - This licensing authority is aware that demand issues cannot be considered with regard to the location of premises but that considerations in terms of the licensing objectives are relevant to its decision-making. As per the Gambling Commission’s Guidance to Licensing Authorities, this authority will pay particular attention to the protection of children and vulnerable persons from being harmed or exploited by gambling, as well as issues of crime and disorder. Should any specific policy be decided upon as regards areas where gambling premises should not be located, this statement will be updated. It should be noted that any such policy does not preclude any application being made and each application will be decided on its merits, with the onus upon the applicant showing how potential concerns can be overcome.

9.10 Planning: The Gambling Commission Guidance to Licensing Authorities states: 7.60 – In determining applications the licensing authority has a duty to take into consideration all relevant matters and not to take into consideration any irrelevant matters, i.e. those not related to gambling and the licensing objectives. One example of an irrelevant matter would be the likelihood of the applicant obtaining planning permission or building regulations approval for their proposal.

This authority will not take into account irrelevant matters as per the above guidance. In addition this authority notes the following excerpt from the Guidance: 7.67 - When dealing with a premises licence application for finished buildings, the licensing authority should not take into account whether those buildings have or comply with the necessary planning or building consents. Those matters should be dealt with under relevant planning control and building regulation powers, and not form part of the consideration for the premises licence. Section 210 of the 2005 Act prevents licensing authorities taking into account the likelihood of the proposal by the applicant obtaining planning or building consent when considering a premises licence application. Equally the grant of a gambling premises licence does not prejudice or prevent any action that may be appropriate under the law relating to planning or building.

9.11 Duplication with other regulatory regimes - This licensing authority seeks to avoid any duplication with other statutory / regulatory systems where possible, including planning. This authority will not consider whether a licence application is likely to be awarded planning permission or building regulations approval, in its consideration of it. It will though listen to, and consider carefully, any concerns about conditions which are not able to be met by licensees due to planning restrictions, should such a situation arise.

When dealing with a premises licence application for finished buildings, this authority will not take into account whether those buildings have to comply with the necessary planning or buildings consents. Fire or health and safety risks will not be taken into account, as these matters are dealt with under

13 relevant planning control, buildings’ and other regulations and must not form part of the consideration for the premises licence.

9.12 Licensing objectives - Premises licences granted must be reasonably consistent with the licensing objectives. With regard to these objectives, this licensing authority has considered the Gambling Commission’s Guidance to Licensing Authorities and some comments are made below.

9.13 Preventing gambling from being a source of crime or disorder, being associated with crime or disorder or being used to support crime - This licensing authority is aware that the Gambling Commission takes a leading role in preventing gambling from being a source of crime. The Gambling Commission's Guidance does however envisage that licensing authorities should pay attention to the proposed location of gambling premises in terms of this licensing objective. Thus, where an area has known high levels of organised crime this authority will consider carefully whether gambling premises are suitable to be located there and whether conditions may be suitable such as the provision of door supervisors. This licensing authority is aware of the distinction between disorder and nuisance and will consider factors (for example whether police assistance was required and how threatening the behaviour was to those who could see it), so as to make that distinction.

9.14 Ensuring that gambling is conducted in a fair and open way - This licensing authority has noted that the Gambling Commission states that it generally does not expect licensing authorities to be concerned with ensuring that gambling is conducted in a fair and open way as this will be addressed via operating and personal licences.

9.15 Protecting children and other vulnerable persons from being harmed or exploited by gambling - This licensing authority has noted the Gambling Commission's Guidance that this objective means preventing children from taking part in gambling (as well as restriction of advertising so that gambling products are not aimed at or are, particularly attractive to children). The licensing authority will therefore consider, as suggested in the Gambling Commission's Guidance, whether specific measures are required at particular premises, with regard to this licensing objective. Appropriate measures may include supervision of entrances / machines, segregation of areas etc.

9.16 This licensing authority is also aware of the Gambling Commission Codes of Practice as regards this licensing objective, in relation to specific premises.

9.17 Section 7 of the Gambling Commission Guidance to Local Authorities sets out considerations that an operator must make in order to protect children and young people from accessing gambling premises. The Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP) issued in 2015 prescribe how operators must prevent children from using age restricted

14 gaming or gambling activities, particularly where gaming machines are licensed.

In particular operators must ensure that;  all staff are trained,  that all customers are supervised when on gambling premises  must have procedures for identifying customers who are at risk of gambling related harm.

9.18 The Council will expect all operators to have policies and procedures in place as required by the LCCP codes on social responsibility to cover all aspects of the code, in particular staff training records and self-exclusion records.

9.19 Further provisions with regard to self-exclusion and marketing are included in the social responsibility code. The council will take all conditions and codes into account when considering applications or performing enforcement activities. See Part D of this policy statement for further details and on the Council’s requirements in relation to the LCCP.

9.20 As regards the term “vulnerable persons” it is noted that the Gambling Commission does not seek to offer a definition but states that “it will for regulatory purposes assume that this group includes people who gamble more than they want to; people who gambling beyond their means; and people who may not be able to make informed or balanced decisions about gambling due to a mental impairment, alcohol or drugs.” This licensing authority will consider this licensing objective on a case by case basis.

9.21 Conditions - Any conditions attached to licences will be proportionate and will be:  relevant to the need to make the proposed building suitable as a gambling facility;  directly related to the premises and the type of licence applied for;  fairly and reasonably related to the scale and type of premises; and  reasonable in all other respects.

9.22 Decisions upon individual conditions will be made on a case by case basis, although there will be a number of measures this licensing authority will consider utilising should there be a perceived need, such as the use of supervisors, appropriate signage for adult only areas etc. There are specific comments made in this regard under some of the licence types below. This licensing authority will also expect the licence applicant to offer his/her own suggestions as to the way in which the licensing objectives can be met effectively.

9.23 This licensing authority will also consider specific measures which may be required for buildings which are subject to multiple premises licences. Such measures may include the supervision of entrances; segregation of gambling from non-gambling areas frequented by children; and the supervision of

15 gaming machines in non-adult gambling specific premises in order to pursue the licensing objectives. These matters are in accordance with the Gambling Commission's Guidance.

9.24 This authority will also ensure that where category C or above machines are on offer in premises to which children are admitted:

 all such machines are located in an area of the premises which is separated from the remainder of the premises by a physical barrier which is effective to prevent access other than through a designated entrance;  only adults are admitted to the area where these machines are located;  access to the area where the machines are located is supervised;  the area where these machines are located is arranged so that it can be observed by the staff or the licence holder; and  at the entrance to and inside any such areas there are prominently displayed notices indicating that access to the area is prohibited to persons under 18.

9.25 These considerations will apply to premises including buildings where multiple premises licences are applicable.

9.26 This licensing authority is aware that tracks may be subject to one or more than one premises licence, provided each licence relates to a specified area of the track. As per the Gambling Commission's Guidance, this licensing authority will consider the impact upon the third licensing objective and the need to ensure that entrances to each type of premises are distinct and that children are excluded from gambling areas where they are not permitted to enter.

9.27 It is noted that there are conditions which the licensing authority cannot attach to premises licences which are:  any condition on the premises licence which makes it impossible to comply with an operating licence condition;  conditions relating to gaming machine categories, numbers, or method of operation;  conditions which provide that membership of a club or body be required (the Gambling Act 2005 specifically removes the membership requirement for casino and bingo clubs and this provision prevents it being reinstated; and  conditions in relation to stakes, fees, winning or prizes.

9.28 Door Supervisors - The Gambling Commission advises in its Guidance to Licensing Authorities that if a licensing authority is concerned that a premises may attract disorder or be subject to attempts at unauthorised access (for example by children and young persons) then it may require that the entrances to the premises are controlled by a door supervisor, and is entitled to impose a premises licence to this effect.

9.25 Where it is decided that supervision of entrances/machines is appropriate for particular cases, a consideration of whether these need to be SIA licensed or

16 not will be necessary. It will not be automatically assumed that they need to be licensed, as the statutory requirements for different types of premises vary (as per the Guidance, Part 33).

10.0 Adult Gaming Centres

10.1 This licensing authority will specifically have regard to the need to protect children and vulnerable persons from harm or being exploited by gambling and will expect the applicant to satisfy the authority that there will be sufficient measures to, for example, ensure that under 18 year olds do not have access to the premises.

10.2 Where gambling facilities are provided at premises as a supplementary activity to the main purpose of the premises; e.g. motorway service areas and shopping malls. The council will expect the gambling area to be clearly defined to ensure that customers are fully aware that they are making a choice to enter into the gambling premises and that the premises is adequately supervised at all times.

10.3 This licensing authority may consider measures to meet the licensing objectives such as:

 Proof of age schemes  CCTV  Supervision of entrances / machine areas  Physical separation of areas  Location of entry  Notices / signage  Specific opening hours  Self-exclusion schemes  Provision of information leaflets / helpline numbers for organisations such as GamCare.

This list is not mandatory, nor exhaustive, and is merely indicative of example measures.

11.0 (Licensed) Family Entertainment Centres

11.1 This licensing authority will specifically have regard to the need to protect children and vulnerable persons from harm or being exploited by gambling and will expect the applicant to satisfy the authority, for example, that there will be sufficient measures to ensure that under 18 year olds do not have access to the adult only gaming machine areas.

11.2 This licensing authority may consider measures to meet the licensing objectives such as:

 CCTV  Supervision of entrances / machine areas

17  Physical separation of areas  Location of entry  Notices / signage  Specific opening hours  Self-exclusion schemes  Provision of information leaflets / helpline numbers for organisations such as GamCare.  Measures / training for staff on how to deal with suspected truant school children on the premises

This list is not mandatory, nor exhaustive, and is merely indicative of example measures.

11.3 This licensing authority will, as per the Gambling Commission’s guidance, refer to the Commission’s website to see any conditions that apply to operating licences covering the way in which the area containing the category C machines should be delineated. This licensing authority will also make itself aware of any mandatory or default conditions on these premises licences, when they have been published.

12.0 Casinos

12.1 No Casinos resolution - This licensing authority has not passed a ‘no casino’ resolution under Section 166 of the Gambling Act 2005, but is aware that it has the power to do so. Should this licensing authority decide in the future to pass such a resolution, it will update this policy statement with details of that resolution. Any such decision will be made by the Full Council.

12.2 Local Authorities only: Casinos and competitive bidding – small / large casinos – This licensing authority has been granted the power to issue one premises licence for a (small)/(large) casino, and is aware that there are likely to be a number of operators who will want to run the casino. In such situations the local authority will run a ‘competition’ under Schedule 9 of the Gambling Act 2005. This licensing authority will run such a competition in line with the Gambling (inviting Competing Applications for large and small casino premises licenses) Regulations 2008, as well as following the procedure set out in Part 17 of the Guidance.

12.3 Licence considerations / conditions – This licensing authority will attach conditions to casino premises licences according to the principles set out in the Gambling Commission’s Guidance at paragraph 9, bearing in mind the mandatory conditions listed in paragraph 17 of the guidance, and the Licensing Conditions and Codes of Practice published by the Gambling commission.

13.0 Bingo premises

13.1 This licensing authority notes that the Gambling Commission’s Guidance states:

18 “[18.4] Licensing authorities will need to satisfy themselves that bingo can be played in any bingo premises for which they issue a premises licence. This will be a relevant consideration where the operator of an existing bingo premises applies to vary their licence to exclude an area of the existing premises from its ambit and then applies for a new premises licence, or multiple licences, for that or those excluded areas.

This authority also notes the Guidance at paragraph 18.8 regarding the unusual circumstances in which the splitting of pre-existing premises into two adjacent premises might be permitted, and in particular that it is not permissible to locate sixteen category B3 gaming machines in one of the resulting premises, as the gaming machine entitlement for that premises would be exceeded.

[18.6] Children and young people are allowed into bingo premises; however they are not permitted to participate in the bingo and if category B or C machines are made available for use these must be separated from areas where children and young people are allowed”.

14.0 Betting premises

14.1 Betting machines - This licensing authority will, as per the Gambling Commission's Guidance, take into account the size of the premises, the number of counter positions available for person-to-person transactions, and the ability of staff to monitor the use of the machines by children and young persons (it is an offence for those under 18 to bet) or by vulnerable people, when considering the number/nature/circumstances of betting machines an operator wants to offer.

15.0 Tracks

15.1 This licensing authority is aware that tracks may be subject to one or more than one premises licence, provided each licence relates to a specified area of the track. As per the Gambling Commission's Guidance, this licensing authority will especially consider the impact upon the third licensing objective (i.e. the protection of children and vulnerable persons from being harmed or exploited by gambling) and the need to ensure that entrances to each type of premises are distinct and that children are excluded from gambling areas where they are not permitted to enter.

15.2 This authority will therefore expect the premises licence applicant to demonstrate suitable measures to ensure that children do not have access to adult only gaming facilities. It is noted that children and young persons will be permitted to enter track areas where facilities for betting are provided on days when dog-racing and/or horse racing takes place, but that they are still prevented from entering areas where gaming machines (other than category D machines) are provided.

19 15.3 This licensing authority may consider measures to meet the licensing objectives such as:

This list is not mandatory, nor exhaustive, and is merely indicative of example measures.

15.4 Gaming machines - Where the applicant holds a pool betting operating licence and is going to use the entitlement to four gaming machines, machines (other than category D machines) should be located in areas from which children are excluded.

15.5 Betting machines - This licensing authority will, as per Part 6 of the Gambling Commission's Guidance, take into account the size of the premises and the ability of staff to monitor the use of the machines by children and young persons (it is an offence for those under 18 to bet) or by vulnerable people, when considering the number/nature/circumstances of betting machines an operator proposes to offer.

15.6 Applications and plans - The Gambling Act (s51) requires applicants to submit plans of the premises with their application, in order to ensure that the licensing authority has the necessary information to make an informed judgement about whether the premises are fit for gambling. The plan will also be used for the licensing authority to plan future premises inspection activity. (See Guidance to Licensing Authorities, para 20.28).

15.7 Plans for tracks do not need to be in a particular scale, but should be drawn to scale and should be sufficiently detailed to include the information required by regulations. (See Guidance to Licensing Authorities, para 20.29).

15.8 Some tracks may be situated on agricultural land where the perimeter is not defined by virtue of an outer wall or fence, such as point-to-point racetracks. In such instances, where an entry fee is levied, track premises licence holders may erect temporary structures to restrict access to premises (See Guidance to Licensing Authorities, para 20.31).

15.9 In the rare cases where the outer perimeter cannot be defined, it is likely that the track in question will not be specifically designed for the frequent holding of sporting events or races. In such cases betting facilities may be better

20 provided through occasional use notices where the boundary premises do not need to be defined. (See Guidance to Licensing Authorities, para 20.32).

15.10 This authority appreciates that it is sometimes difficult to define the precise location of betting areas on tracks. The precise location of where betting facilities are provided is not required to be shown on track plans, both by virtue of the fact that betting is permitted anywhere on the premises and because of the difficulties associated with pinpointing exact locations for some types of track. Applicants should provide sufficient information that this authority can satisfy itself that the plan indicates the main areas where betting might take place. For racecourses in particular, any betting areas subject to the “five times rule” (commonly known as betting rings) must be indicated on the plan. (See Guidance to Licensing Authorities, para 20.33).

16.0 Travelling Fairs

16.1 This licensing authority is responsible for deciding whether , where category D machines and / or equal chance prize gaming without a permit is to be made available for use at travelling fairs, the statutory requirement that the facilities for gambling amount to no more than an ancillary amusement at the fair is met.

The licensing authority will also consider whether the applicant falls within the statutory definition of a travelling fair.

16.2 It is noted that the 27 day statutory maximum for the land being used as a fair, applies on a per calendar year basis, and that it applies to the piece of land on which the fairs are held, regardless of whether it is the same or different travelling fairs occupying the land. This licensing authority will work with its neighbouring authorities to ensure that land which crosses our boundaries is monitored so that the statutory limits are not exceeded.

17.0 Provisional Statements

17.1 Developers may wish to apply to this authority for provisional statements before entering into a contract to buy or lease property or land to judge whether a development is worth taking forward in light of the need to obtain a premises licence. There is no need for the applicant to hold an operating licence in order to apply for a provisional statement.

17.2 S.204 of the Gambling Act provides for a person to make an application to the licensing authority for a provisional statement in respect of premises that he or she: - expects to be constructed; - expects to be altered; or - expects to acquire a right to occupy.

17.3 The process for considering an application for a provisional statement is the same as that for a premises licence application The applicant is obliged to give notice of the application in the same way as applying for the premises

21 licence. Responsible authorities and interested parties may make representations and there are rights of appeal.

17.4 In contrast to the premises licence application, the applicant does not have to hold or have applied for an operating licence from the Gambling Commission (except in the case of a track) and they do not have to have a right to occupy the premises in respect of which their provisional application is made.

17.5 The holder of a provisional statement may then apply for a premises licence once the premises are constructed, altered or acquired. The licensing authority will be constrained in the matters it can consider when determining the premises licence application, and in terms of representations about premises licence applications that follow the grant of a provisional statement, no further representations from relevant authorities or interested parties can be taken into account unless:  they concern matters which could not have been addressed at the provisional statement stage, or  they reflect a change in the applicant’s circumstances.

17.6 In addition, the authority may refuse the premises licence (or grant it on terms different to those attached to the provisional statement) only by reference to matters:  which could not have been raised by objectors at the provisional licence stage; or  which in the authority’s opinion reflect a change in the operator’s circumstances; or  where the premises has not been constructed in accordance with the plan submitted with the application. This must be a substantial change to plan and this licensing authority notes that it can discuss any concerns it has with the applicant before making a decision.

18.0 Reviews

18.1 Requests for a review of a premises licence can be made by interested parties or responsible authorities; however, it is for the licensing authority to decide whether the review is to be carried-out. This will be on the basis of whether the request for the review is relevant to the matters listed below.

 in accordance with any relevant code of practice issued by the Gambling Commission;  in accordance with any relevant guidance issued by the Gambling Commission;  reasonably consistent with the licensing objectives; and  in accordance with the authority’s statement of principles.

18.2 The request for the review will also be subject to the consideration by the authority as to whether the request is frivolous, vexatious or whether it will certainly not cause this authority to wish to alter/revoke/suspend the licence, review.

22 18.3 The licensing authority can also initiate a review of a particular premises licence, or a particular class of premises licence on the basis of any reason which it thinks is appropriate.

18.4 Once a valid application for a review has been received by the licensing authority, representations can be made by responsible authorities and interested parties during a 28 day period. This period begins 7 days after the application was received by the licensing authority, who will publish notice of the application within 7 days of receipt.

18.5 The licensing authority must carry out the review as soon as possible after the 28 day period for making representations has passed.

18.6 The purpose of the review will be to determine whether the licensing authority should take any action in relation to the licence. If action is justified, the options open to the licensing authority are:- (a) add, remove or amend a licence condition imposed by the licensing authority; (b) exclude a default condition imposed by the Secretary of state or Scottish Ministers (e.g. opening hours) or remove or amend such an exclusion; (c) suspend the premises licence for a period not exceeding three months; and (d) revoke the premises licence.

18.7 In determining what action, if any, should be taken following a review, the licensing authority must have regard to the principles set out in section 153 of the Act, as well as any relevant representations.

18.8 In particular, the licensing authority may also initiate a review of a premises licence on the grounds that a premises licence holder has not provided facilities for gambling at the premises. This is to prevent people from applying for licences in a speculative manner without intending to use them.

18.9 Once the review has been completed, the licensing authority must, as soon as possible, notify its decision to:  the licence holder  the applicant for review (if any)  the Commission  any person who made representations  the Chief Officer of police or Chief constable; and  Her Majesty’s Commissioners for Revenue and Customs

23 PART C PERMITS / TEMPORARY AND OCCASIONAL USE NOTICES

19.0 Unlicensed Family Entertainment Centre gaming machine permits (Statement of Principles on Permits - Schedule 10 paragraph 7)

19.1 Where a premises does not hold a premises licence but wishes to provide gaming machines, it may apply to the licensing authority for this permit. It should be noted that the applicant must show that the premises will be wholly or mainly used for making gaming machines available for use (Section 238).

19.2 The Gambling Act 2005 states that a licensing authority may prepare a statement of principles that they propose to consider in determining the suitability of an applicant for a permit and in preparing this statement, and/or considering applications, it need not (but may) have regard to the licensing objectives and shall have regard to any relevant guidance issued by the Commission under section 25. The Gambling Commission’s Guidance to Licensing Authorities also states: “In their three year licensing policy statement, licensing authorities may include a statement of principles that they propose to apply when exercising their functions in considering applications for permits, licensing authorities will want to give weight to child protection issues." (24.6)

19.3 Guidance also states that “….An application for a permit may be granted only if the licensing authority is satisfied that the premises will be used as an unlicensed FEC, and if the chief officer of police has been consulted on the application….. Licensing authorities might wish to consider asking applications to demonstrate:  A full understanding of the maximum stakes and prizes of the gambling that is permissible in unlicensed FEC’s;  That the applicant has no relevant convictions(those that are set out in Schedule 7 of the Act; and  That staff are trained to have a full understanding of the maximum stakes and prizes. (24.7) It should be noted that a licensing authority cannot attach conditions to this type of permit.

19.4 Statement of Principles - This licensing authority will expect the applicant to show that there are policies and procedures in place to protect children from harm. Harm in this context is not limited to harm from gambling but includes wider child protection considerations. The efficiency of such policies and procedures will each be considered on their merits, however, they may include appropriate measures/training for staff as regards suspected truant school children on the premises, measures/training covering how staff would deal with unsupervised very young children being on the premises, or children causing perceived problems on / around the premises. This licensing authority will also expect, as per Gambling Commission Guidance, that applicants demonstrate a full understanding of the maximum stakes and prizes of the gambling that is permissible in unlicensed FECs; that the applicant has no relevant convictions (those that are set out in Schedule 7 of

24 the Act); and that staff are trained to have a full understanding of the maximum stakes and prizes.

20.0 (Alcohol) Licensed premises gaming machine permits - (Schedule 13 paragraph 4(1))

20.1 There is provision in the Act for premises licensed to sell alcohol for consumption on the premises, to automatically have 2 gaming machines, of categories C and/or D. The premises merely need to notify the licensing authority and pay the prescribed fee.

20.2 The licensing authority can remove the automatic authorisation in respect of any particular premises if:  provision of the machines is not reasonably consistent with the pursuit of the licensing objectives;  gaming has taken place on the premises that breaches a condition of section 282 of the Gambling Act (i.e. that written notice has been provided to the licensing authority, that a fee has been provided and that any relevant code of practice issued by the Gambling Commission about the location and operation of the machine has been complied with);  the premises are mainly used for gaming; or  an offence under the Gambling Act has been committed on the premises.

20.3 Permit: 3 or more machines - If a premises wishes to have more than 2 machines, then it needs to apply for a permit and the licensing authority must consider that application based upon the licensing objectives, any guidance issued by the Gambling Commission issued under Section 25 of the Gambling Act 2005, and “such matters as they think relevant.”

20.4 This licensing authority considers that “such matters” will be decided on a case by case basis but generally there will be regard to the need to protect children and vulnerable persons from harmed or being exploited by gambling and will expect the applicant to satisfy the authority that there will be sufficient measures to ensure that under 18 year olds do not have access to the adult only gaming machines. Measures which will satisfy the authority that there will be no access may include the adult machines being in sight of the bar, or in the sight of staff who will monitor that the machines are not being used by those under 18. Notices and signage may also help. As regards the protection of vulnerable persons applicants may wish to consider the provision of information leaflets / helpline numbers for organisations such as GamCare.

20.5 It is recognised that some alcohol licensed premises may apply for a premises licence for their non-alcohol licensed areas. Any such application would most likely need to be applied for, and dealt with as an Adult Gaming Centre premises licence.

20.6 It should be noted that the licensing authority can decide to grant the application with a smaller number of machines and/or a different category of machines than that applied for. Conditions (other than these) cannot be attached.

25 20.7 It should also be noted that the holder of a permit must comply with any Code of Practice issued by the Gambling Commission about the location and operation of the machine.

21.0 Prize Gaming Permits

21.1 The Gambling Act 2005 states that a licensing authority may “prepare a statement of principles that they propose to apply in exercising their functions under this Schedule” which “may in particular, specify matters that the licensing authority proposes to consider in determining the suitability of the applicant for a permit”.

21.2 This licensing authority has prepared a Statement of Principles which is that the applicant should set out the types of gaming that he or she is intending to offer and that the applicant should be able to demonstrate:  that they understand the limits to stakes and prizes that are set out in Regulations;  and that the gaming offered is within the law.  Clear policies that outline the steps to be taken to protect children from harm.

21.3 In making its decision on an application for this permit the licensing authority does not need to (but may) have regard to the licensing objectives but must have regard to any Gambling Commission guidance.

21.4 It should be noted that there are conditions in the Gambling Act 2005 by which the permit holder must comply, but that the licensing authority cannot attach conditions. The conditions in the Act are:  the limits on participation fees, as set out in regulations, must be complied with;  all chances to participate in the gaming must be allocated on the premises on which the gaming is taking place and on one day; the game must be played and completed on the day the chances are allocated; and the result of the game must be made public in the premises on the day that it is played;  the prize for which the game is played must not exceed the amount set out in regulations (if a money prize), or the prescribed value (if non-monetary prize); and  participation in the gaming must not entitle the player to take part in any other gambling.

22.0 Club Gaming and Club Machines Permits

22.1 Members Clubs and Miners’ welfare institutes (but not Commercial Clubs) may apply for a Club Gaming Permit. The Club Gaming Permit will enable the premises to provide gaming machines (3 machines of categories B, C or D), equal chance gaming and games of chance as set-out in forthcoming regulations.

26 22.2 Members Clubs and Miners Welfare institutes - and also Commercial Clubs – may apply for a Club Machine Permit. A Club Machine permit will enable the premises to provide gaming machines (3 machines of categories B, C or D). NB Commercial Clubs may not site category B3A gaming machines offering lottery games in their club.

22.3 This licensing authority notes that the Gambling Commissions guidance states:

[25.46] The licensing authority has to satisfy itself that the club meets the requirements of the Act to obtain a club gaming permit. In doing so it will take account a number of matters as outlined in sections 25.47-25.49 of the gambling Commissions Guidance. These include the constitution of the club, the frequency of gaming and ensuring that there are more than 25 members.

22.4 The Commission Guidance also notes that "licensing authorities may only refuse an application on the grounds that: (a) the applicant does not fulfil the requirements for a members’ or commercial club or miners’ welfare institute and therefore is not entitled to receive the type of permit for which it has applied; (b) the applicant’s premises are used wholly or mainly by children and/or young persons; (c) an offence under the Act or a breach of a permit has been committed by the applicant while providing gaming facilities; (d) a permit held by the applicant has been cancelled in the previous ten years; or (e) an objection has been lodged by the Commission or the police.

22.5 There is also a ‘fast-track’ procedure available under the Act for premises which hold a Club Premises Certificate under the Licensing Act 2003 (Schedule 12 paragraph 10). Commercial clubs cannot hold Club premises certificates under the Licensing Act 2003 and so cannot use the fast-track procedure. As the Gambling Commission’s Guidance for local authorities states: "Under the fast-track procedure there is no opportunity for objections to be made by the Commission or the police, and the ground upon which an authority can refuse a permit are reduced." and "The grounds on which an application under the process may be refused are:

(a) that the club is established primarily for gaming, other than gaming prescribed under schedule 12; (b) that in addition to the prescribed gaming, the applicant provides facilities for other gaming; or (c) that a club gaming permit or club machine permit issued to the applicant in the last ten years has been cancelled."

22.6 There are statutory conditions on club gaming permits that no child uses a category B or C machine on the premises and that the holder complies with any relevant provision of a code of practice about the location and operation of gaming machines.

27 23.0 Temporary Use Notices

23.1 Temporary Use Notices allow the use of premises for gambling where there is no premises licence but where a gambling operator wishes to use the premises temporarily for providing facilities for gambling. Premises that might be suitable for a Temporary Use Notice, according to the Gambling Commission, would include hotels, conference centres and sporting venues.

23.2 The licensing authority can only grant a Temporary Use Notice to a person or company holding a relevant operating licence, i.e. a non-remote casino operating licence.

23.3 The Secretary of State has the power to determine what form of gambling can be authorised by Temporary Use Notices, and at the time of writing this Statement the relevant regulations (SI no 3157: The Gambling Act 2005 (Temporary Use Notices) Regulations 2007) state that Temporary Use Notices can only be used to permit the provision of facilities or equal chance gaming, where the gaming is intended to produce a single winner, which in practice means poker tournaments.

23.4 There are a number of statutory limits as regards Temporary Use Notices. The meaning of "premises" in Part 8 of the Act is discussed in Part 7 of the Gambling Commission Guidance to Licensing Authorities. As with "premises", the definition of "a set of premises" will be a question of fact in the particular circumstances of each notice that is given. In the Act "premises" is defined as including "any place". In considering whether a place falls within the definition of "a set of premises", the licensing authority needs to look at, amongst other things, the ownership/occupation and control of the premises.

23.5 This licensing authority expects to object to notices where it appears that their effect would be to permit regular gambling in a place that could be described as one set of premises, as recommended in the Gambling Commission’s Guidance to Licensing Authorities.

24.0 Occasional Use Notices

24.1 The licensing authority has very little discretion as regards these notices aside from ensuring that the statutory limit of 8 days in a calendar year is not exceeded. This licensing authority will though consider the definition of a ‘track’ and whether the applicant is permitted to avail him/herself of the notice. This licensing authority will also ensure that no more than 8 OUNs are issued in one calendar year in respect of any venue.

25.0 Small Society Lotteries

25.1 This licensing authority will adopt a risk based approach towards its enforcement responsibilities for small society lotteries. This authority considers that the following list, although not exclusive, could affect the risk status of the operator:

28  Submission of late returns (returns must be submitted no later than three months after the date on which the lottery draw was held  Submission of incomplete or incorrect returns  Breaches of the limits for small society lotteries

25.2 Non-commercial gaming is permitted if it takes place at a non-commercial event, either as an incidental or principal activity at the event. Events are non- commercial if no part of the proceeds is for private profit or gain. The proceeds of such events may benefit one or more individuals if the activity is organised:

 By, on behalf of, a charity or for charitable purposes  To enable participation in, or support of, sporting, athletic or cultural activities.

Charities and community groups should contact this licensing authority at the address and contact details on the front of this policy.

PART D LICENCE CONDITIONS & CODES OF PRACTICE (LCCP)

26.0 LCCP and Risk Assessments

26.1 The Gambling Commission released an LCCP in February 2015 with a commencement date of May 2015. The code strengthened the social responsibility code (SR) requirements. Details regarding the LCCP and SR code can be accessed via the Gambling Commission website at www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk

The code requires operators:

 To supervise customers effectively on gambling premises and identify customers who are at risk of gambling related harm.  With effect from April 2016 to have in place schemes to allow customers to self-exclude themselves from all operators of a similar type in the area where they live and work.  To have a range of measures with regard to marketing to ensure social responsibility that are transparent and not misleading.  With effect from April 2016 to produce a risk assessment on individual premises, and have policies and procedures and control measures in place to mitigate local risks to the licensing objectives. 26.2 Risk Assessments - Such risk assessments are required from new applicants, and from existing premises licensees seeking to vary a licence and are to be presented to the licensing authority upon application. The code requires all operators of; Casino’s, AGC’s, Bingo Premises, FEC’s, Betting shops and remote betting intermediaries to assess local risks to the licensing objectives, and to have policies, procedures and control measures in place to mitigate those risks.

29 26.3 Operators are required by the SR code to make the risk assessment available to licensing authorities when an application is submitted either for new premises licence or variation of a premises licence, or otherwise on request, and this will form part of the council’s inspection regime and may be requested when officers are investigating complaints.

26.4 The code requires the Council to set out matters they expect the operator to take account of in the risk assessment in its statement of policy and this council expects the following matters to be considered by operators when making their risk assessment:

 Information held by the licensee regarding self-exclusions and incidences of underage gambling.  Gaming trends that may reflect benefit payments.  Arrangement for localised exchange of information regarding self- exclusions and gaming trends.  Urban setting such as proximity to schools, commercial environment, factors affecting footfall.  Range of facilities in proximity to the licensed premises such as other gambling outlets, banks, post offices, refreshment and entertainment type facilities.  Known problems in the area such as problems arising from street drinkers, youths participating in anti-social behaviour, drug dealing activities, etc.

26.5 The council expects the following matters to be considered by operators when making their risk assessment.

Matters relating to children and young persons, including:  Institutions, places or areas where presence of children and young persons should be expected such as schools, youth clubs, parks, playgrounds and entertainment venues such as bowling allies, cinemas etc.  Any premises where children congregate including bus stops, café’s, shops, and any other place where children are attracted.  Areas that are prone to issues of youths participating in anti-social behaviour, including such activities as graffiti/tagging, underage drinking, etc.  Recorded incidents of attempted underage gambling.

Matters relating to vulnerable adults, including:

 Information held by the licensee regarding self-exclusions and incidences of underage gambling.  Gaming trends that may mirror days for financial payments such as pay days or benefit payments.  Arrangement for localised exchange of information regarding self- exclusions and gaming trends.  Proximity of premises which may be frequented by vulnerable people such as hospitals, residential care homes, medical facilities, doctor’s surgeries,

30 council housing offices, addiction clinics or help centres, places where alcohol or drug dependant people may congregate, etc.

26.6 Other issues that may be considered could include: Matters of faith, including all religious or faith denominations including proximity to churches, mosques, temples or any other place of worship.

This list is not exhaustive and other factors not in this list that are identified must be taken into consideration.

27.0 Local Area Profile

27.1 The Council has considered the local area profile and feels the main issues will be covered by the risk assessments required under the LCCP.

31 APPENDIX A

CONSULTEES

British Beer & Pub Association HM Customs & Excise Gamblers Anonymous Gamcare Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service Greater Manchester Police The Lotteries Council The Bingo Association Association of British Bookmakers Casino Operators Association of the UK Business in Sport and Leisure BACTA British Casino Association (BCA) Security Industry Authority Remote Gambling Association Responsibility in Gambling Trust Gambling Commission TOTE Ladbrokes Plc William Hill Paul Deans Bookmakers Ltd Betfred British Holiday and Home Parks Association Club and Institute Union Society of Independent Brewers Nobles Amusements The Rank Group Plc Leisure Link Gamestec Leisure Ltd Gala Coral Group Ltd George Bet Centres Ltd Punch Taverns Rochdale MBC Environmental Health Service Rochdale MBC Development Control Service Rochdale MBC Local Safeguarding Children Unit J W Lees (Brewers) Ltd Rochdale Law Association Greater Manchester Chamber Rochdale Federation of Tenants and Residents Associations Rochdale, Heywood, Littleborough Pub Watch Groups Rochdale MBC Councillors Buckingham Bingo Ltd. Holders of existing betting shop licences. Residents via Libraries and Council Website.

32 APPENDIX B

RESPONSIBLE AUTHORITIES

Any application must be sent to:-

Rochdale Borough Council Licensing Service Floor 3 Number One Riverside Smith Street Rochdale OL16 1XU

Copies of the application must also be sent to the following Responsible Authorities:

Fire Safety Team Leader HM Customs & Revenue GM Fire and Rescue Authority National Registration Unit Rochdale Central HQ 21 India Street Rochdale Fire Station Glasgow, G2 4PZ Halifax Road Rochdale, OL12 9BD

Rochdale Borough Council Rochdale Borough Council Safeguarding Children Board Planning Service Floor 3 Floor 3 Number One Riverside Number One Riverside Smith Street Smith Street Rochdale, OL16 1XU Rochdale, OL16 1XU

Chief Officer of Police Rochdale Borough Council Greater Manchester Police Environmental Health Divisional HQ Floor 3 The Holme Number One Riverside The Esplanade Smith Street Rochdale, OL16 1AG Rochdale, OL16 1XU

Gambling Commission Victoria Square House Victoria Square Birmingham, B2 4BP

33 APPENDIX 2 Schedule of Responses to draft Gambling Policy 2016-2019

Reference Respondent Comments Officer Comments Letter Gosschalks Para. 9.1, page 9 – ‘there is a statement that licensing Due regard has been given to this particular received Solicitors on authorities are able to exclude default conditions and also comment, we should consider adding 3rd November behalf of the attach others, where is believed to be appropriate. The 2015 Association of statement of policy should be clear throughout that “that conditions in addition to the mandatory British conditions in addition to the mandatory and default and default conditions will only be imposed Bookmakers conditions will only be imposed where there is evidence of where there is evidence of a risk to the (ABB) a risk to the licencing objectives in the circumstances of a licencing objectives in the circumstances of a particular case’. particular case”.

Para. 9.3, page 9 – ‘the draft statement of policy indicates Policy amended to insert at the end of that moral objections and unmet demand are not criteria Para 9.3: for a licencing authority when considering an application for a premises licence. It is respectfully submitted that ‘Further it is under a duty not to take other this paragraph be expanded to state that issues of irrelevant matters into consideration, e.g. the nuisance and the likelihood of the grant of planning likelihood of an applicant obtaining Planning permission or building regulation approval are not issues Permission’. that can be taken into account when considering an application for a premises licence’.

Para 9.9, page 13 – ‘the final two sentences of this Rochdale Council do not have such a policy paragraph cause the ABB significant concern. Any policy but the draft Gambling Policy indicated what that a specific area is an area where gambling premises the authority would do should they introduce should not be located may be unlawful. This paragraph a policy. The paragraph would not be appears to implement a cumulative impact type policy as amended other than the removal of the last exists within the licencing regime under Licencing Act clause in the last sentence. i.e. ‘with the onus 2003. Such a policy is contrary to the overriding principles upon the applicant showing how potential of ‘aim to permit’ contained within s153 of the Gambling concerns can be overcome’. Act 2005. Similarly, the reversal of the burden of proof in the final sentence that requires the applicant to demonstrate why an application should be granted is contrary to that principle. These two sentences should be removed and replaced with a simple statement that each case will be determined on its own merits’.

Para 9.13, page 14 – ‘explains the first licencing objective Policy amended to insert at the end of – preventing gambling from being a source of crime or Para 9.13: disorder, being associated with crime or disorder or being used to support crime. This paragraph should be ‘Issues of nuisance cannot be addressed via expanded to make it clear that issues of nuisance are not the Gambling Act 2005’. relevant considerations and that the Gambling Commission has defined disorder as intending to mean activity that is more serious and disruptive than mere nuisance’.

Para 9.21-9.25, page 15 – ‘the statement of policy would Due regard has been given to this particular be assisted by an indication that the starting point for comment, we should consider adding consideration of any application is that it will be granted subject only to the mandatory and default conditions as “The conditions in addition to the mandatory these are usually sufficient to ensure operation that is and default conditions will only be imposed reasonably consistent with the licencing objectives. The where there is evidence of a risk to the draft statement of policy should make it clear that licencing objectives in the circumstances of a additional conditions will only be imposed where there is particular case”. clear evidence of a risk to the licencing objectives that requires that the mandatory and default conditions be supplemented and not simply where there is ‘perceived need’ or where there are ‘concerns’.

Part D, page 29 – ‘those risk assessments will be Part D ‘Licence Conditions and Codes of submitted from 6th April 2016 following the Practice (LCCP)’ should now been revised to implementation of the new Social Responsibility and take into account the suggestions. Ordinary Code Provisions. The provisions require that licensees “assess the local risks to the licensing objectives posed by the provision of gambling facilities at each of their premises.” The risk assessment therefore must relate to the gambling objectives. Therefore, issues such as gaming trends that may reflect benefit payment are irrelevant considerations. This appears to assume that people in receipt of benefits must be vulnerable. This cannot follow. The policy recognises within paragraph 9.20 that vulnerable persons include those who gamble more than they want to, people who gamble beyond their means and people who may not be able to make informed or balanced decisions about gambling due to mental impairment, alcohol or drugs. The policy should be amended so that it is clear that any matters relevant to the licensing objectives will need to be included within the risk assessment.

Similarly, issues such as known problems in the area such as problems arising from street drinkers, youths participating in anti-social behaviour, areas that are prone to graffiti/tagging/underage drinking have no impact on the licensing objectives and cannot be relevant as far as a local area risk assessment is concerned. The policy should be amended to reflect this’.

Para 26.6, page 31 – ‘indicates that issues that could be Due regard has been given to this particular considered include matters of faith. The Gambling comment. Taking the suggestion into Commission Guidance is clear. Paragraph 5.34 of the 5th consideration, the paragraph should be Edition of the Guidance to Licensing Authorities indicates removed. “licensing authorities should be aware that other considerations such as moral or ethical objections to gambling are not a valid reason to reject applications for premises licences.”

It is impossible to see how the proximity of a place of worship could pose a risk to the licensing objectives and this part of the policy should therefore be removed’.

Letter received Coral Racing Part D, page 29 – ‘We do wish to highlight that we are not Due regard has been given to this particular 6th November Limited of the opinion however regarding the proximity of a comment, however as the respondent has 2015 premises in relation to schools and leisure facilities. Whilst acknowledged that such locations are included each application will be judged on its merits as mentioned within the Gambling Commission’s statutory at several points within your statement, Coral knows of no guidance to Licensing Authorities on the manner which authorities are to exercise their functions evidence that the location of a licensed betting office under the Gambling Act 2005, the policy should within the proximity of schools and similar locations not therefore be amended. mentioned in the statement causes harm to the licensing objectives. We appreciate that such locations are included within Gambling Commission guidance to councils’.

Subject: Licensing Policy Update Status: For Publication

Cabinet Member: Councillor Janet Emsley

Report of: Director of Public Health Author: Beverley Wilkinson Tel: 01706 924178 Author Email: [email protected]

Comments from Statutory Monitoring Officer: Yes Officers: Section 151 Officer: Yes Key Decision: yes

1 Purpose of the report 1.1 To enable the Council to meet its statutory obligation to adopt and publish a Licensing Policy, in accordance with section 5 of the Licensing Act 2003, prior to the 31st January 2016.

1.2 To report on the results of the consultation on the Councils draft Licensing Policy Statement, and to seek agreement from Members on amendments, where necessary, and to recommend adoption of the Licensing Policy to full Council.

2. Recommendations

2.1 Planning and Licensing Committee – to consider for consultative purposes the draft Licensing Policy.

2.2 Communities, Regeneration and Environment O&S Committee - to consider for consultative purposes and scrutiny of the draft Licensing Policy.

2.3 Cabinet - Members consider the responses to the consultation on the draft Licensing Policy, and agree the amendments where necessary.

2.4 Council - the revised Licensing Policy statement be recommended to full Council for adoption.

3 Background

3.1 The Council, acting in its role as the Licensing Authority, adopted a Licensing Policy Statement, covering its responsibilities under the Licensing Act 2003, in 2011. This Policy Statement must be reviewed every five years. 3.2 A draft statement of Licensing Policy has been updated to take into account the LGA’s best practice framework for the review of Council’s policy statement. Included in the review is the statutory government guidance section 182, for the review of licensing policies The draft policy is attached at Appendix 1 , the amendments to the Licensing Policy are highlighted in red.

3.3 Under the legislation the Council has to consult with the Responsible Authorities under the Act, national bodies, representatives of licensees, residents, and with representatives of other businesses. A list of consultees forms part of the draft Licensing Policy.

3.4 The consultation commenced on the 19th October 2015 and will close on the 8th January 2016.3.5 Following the consultation exercise we will refer the results of the consultation on the Council’s draft Licensing Policy Statement to the Cabinet, to seek agreement from Members on amendments, where necessary, and to recommend adoption of the Licensing Policy to full Council.

Alternatives considered 3.5 There are no possible alternatives to this course of action, in view of the fact that the Licensing Authority has a statutory responsibility to revise its Licensing Policy Statement before the 31 January 2016.

4 Financial Implications 4.1 None, as the Licensing Policy can be viewed on the Council’s Website so therefore there are no publishing cost implications.

5 Legal Implications 5.1 There are no legal implications other than those identified elsewhere in the report.

6 Personnel Implications 6.1 There are no personnel implications in this report.

7 Corporate Priorities 7.1 PEOPLE- Under the Licensing Act 2003 there are 4 licensing objectives one of them is “protecting children from harm”. To ensure that children are protected conditions can be attached to the premises licence. If a licence holder does not work in accordance with the licence then enforcement action can be taken.

8. Risk Assessment Implications 8.1 There are no specific risk issues for members to consider arising from this report.

9. Equalities Impacts 9.1 Workforce Equality Impacts Assessment Where are no (significant) workforce equality issues arising from this report.

9.2 Equality/Community Impact Assessments

There are no (significant) equality/community issues arising from this report.

Background Papers Document Place of Inspection None 1

APPENDIX

Equality Impact Assessment

What are you assessing? Please tick the appropriate box below.

Function Strategy Policy Project Other, please specify below

Licensing Policy Update

Service:Public Health Section: Public Protection - Licensing

Responsible Officer: Name of function/strategy/ policy/ project assessed:

Beverley Wilkinson Licensing Policy Update

Date of Assessment:17.11.15

Officers Involved:

Beverley Wilkinson Service Manager Licensing and Test Purchasing

Jay Alom Team Leader (Projects) 2

1.What is the purpose of the function/strategy/policy/project assessed?

(Briefly describe the aims, objectives and purpose of the function/strategy/policy/project)

The Council has an existing Licensing Policy, but the Council is required to review its policy statement every five years to meet its statutory requirement to adopt and publish a Licensing Policy.

2.Who are the key stakeholders?

Responsible Authorities under the Act, national bodies, representatives of licensees, residents, and with representatives of other businesses.

3. What is the scope of this equality impact assessment? That is, what is included in this assessment.

Previous policy Government Guidance LGA’s template Considered other local authorities licensing policies.

4.Which needs is this function/strategy/ policy/ project designed to meet?

This Policy is designed to ensure that licensed premises are operated in line with the licensing objectives:

 Prevention of crime and disorder  Prevention of public nuisance  Public safety  Protection of children from harm

The policy sets out the Councils approach to licensed premises. 3

5.Has a needs analysis been undertaken?

It is a statutory duty to revise the policy every 5 years.

6.Who is affected by this function/strategy/ policy/ project?

The changes to the policy directly impact upon premises licence holders and designated premises supervisors. They also impact upon officers who are called upon to implement the changes and regulate premises and indirectly the public who safety should be more strongly protected.

7.Who has been involved in the review or development of this function/strategy/ policy/ project and who has been consulted? State your consultation/involvement methodology.

Service Manager Licensing, Team Leader, Responsible Authorities under the Act, national bodies, representatives of licensees, residents, and with representatives of other businesses. We have considered the LGA and Government Guidance (S182 Licensing Act 2003). We have also considered other local authority licensing polices and have had discussions with other LA colleagues. A list of consultees is contained within the draft policy and all have been contacted to encourage feedback on our draft policy.

8.What data have you considered for this assessment and have any gaps in the data been identified. What action will be taken to close any data gaps?

There are no identified gaps.

9.Are there any other documents or strategies which are linked to this assessment? If so, please include hyperlinks to these documents below, where available.

Local Government Association - Best Practice Guidance

Section 182 Statutory guidance

10.What impact will this function/strategy/policy/project have on all the protected groups? This 4 includes both positive and potentially negative impacts.

The overall aim of this policy is to actively promote the Licensing Objectives. It seeks to provide information and guidance to applicants, responsible authorities and any person who may be affected or interested in licensing matters. It clarifies the manner in which the Council will consider applications and how it will approach matters relating to licensing. It will also set out what the Licensing Authority expects of licence holders and how they can contribute to the promotion of the Licensing Objectives In preparing and publishing this policy, the guidance issued by the Secretary of State for the Home Office under section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 has been taken into account along with good practice advice issued by approved government advisory bodies. The policy has regard for the Council’s statutory responsibility under the Health and Social Care Act 2012 for the health of the population of Rochdale and notes that it is a public health priority to reduce alcohol related harm. The policy also takes into account the Council’s statutory duty under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 to have regard to the need to do all that it reasonably can to prevent crime and disorder, misuse of drugs and alcohol reoffending in the area. The Licensing Authority will always have regard for its obligations under the Equality Act 2010, and will ensure that the policy does not disproportionately impact any particular equality group. The Licensing Authority has taken account of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011, the Live Music Act 2012 and the Deregulation Act 2015, which brought in legislative changes to the Act which have been reflected in this Policy.

The Licensing Authority is committed to protecting children from harm and recognises how an effective licensing regime can assist and inform other agencies in helping to tackle child sexual exploitation (CSE).

Race Equality

The revisions will not directly impact

Disabled People

The revisions will not directly impact this group.

Carers

The revisions will not directly impact this group.

Gender

The revisions will not directly impact.

Age

The revisions will not directly impact. 5

Armed Forces and Ex-Armed Forces Personnel

The revisions will not directly impact this group.

Sexual Orientation

The revisions will not directly impact.

Gender Reassignment

The revisions will not directly impact.

Religion or Belief

The revisions will not directly impact.

Pregnant Women or Those on Maternity Leave

The revisions will not directly impact.

Marriage or Civil Partnership

The revisions will not directly impact.

11.What are your main conclusions from this analysis?

As there is wide consultation built into the revision of the Licensing Policy process we will update the policy as the reports progress through the Committee process.

12.What are your recommendations?

See above (11) 6

13.What actions are you going to take to address the findings of this assessment? Please attach an action plan including details of designated officers responsible for completing these actions.

Signed (Completing Officer):______Date:______

Signed (Head of Service): ______Date:______7

Equality Impact Assessment Action Plan 2014/15

Action Outcome Target Date For Resource Lead Officer Completion Implications APPENDIX 1

Statement of Licensing Policy 2016-2021

Licensing Act 2003 Rochdale Borough Council January 2016

1 STATEMENT OF POLICY Under Section 5 of the Licensing Act 2003

Contents Item Page 1. Glossary 3

Background 2. Introduction 6 3. Overview of this Policy 7 4. Consultation on this Policy 7 5. The Integration of Policies 8 6. Tackling Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) 8 7. Authority Profile 9 8. Scope & Context of the Policy 9 9. Licensable Activities 12

Licensing Objectives 10. Licensing Objectives – Prevention of Crime & Disorder 14 11. Licensing Objectives – Promoting Public Safety 19 12. Licensing Objectives – Prevention of Public Nuisance 20 13. Licensing Objectives – Protection of Children from Harm 25

Other Important Information 14. Planning & Licensing 27 15. Provisional Statements 28 16. Enforcement 28 17. Conditions 28 18. Special Occasions 28 19. Premises Licences 28 20. Club Premises Certificates 29 21. Temporary Events notices (TENS) 30 22. Late Night Levy 30 23. Early Morning Restriction Orders 30 24. Suspension of Premises Licences/Club Premises Certificates 31 25. Personal Licences 31 26. Adult Entertainment 32 27. The Licensing Process 32

Appendices Appendix A – Consultees & Responsible Authorities 33-36 Appendix B – Exercise & Delegation of Functions 37-38 Appendix C – Statutory Qualifying Conditions for Clubs 39-41 Appendix D – The Hypnotism Act 1952: Conditions 42

2 1. GLOSSARY

1.1 Act The Licensing Act 2003 as amended.

1.2 Applicant – within the statement of licensing policy may mean applicant, licence holder, club premises certificate holder as appropriate

1.3 Designated premises supervisor/DPS Designated person with day to day control in premises that sell alcohol (specified on the Premises Licence) B there is no requirement for a DPS in premises operated through a club premises certificate

1.4 Other Persons - ‘Interested Parties’  persons who live, or are involved in a business, in the relevant licensing authority’s area;  a member of the relevant licensing authority.

1.5 Licensing Authority (the Authority) Rochdale Borough Council.

1.6 Licensing Objectives Licensing Authority must carry out its functions under the Licensing Act 2003 with a view to promoting the licensing objectives:

a) The prevention of crime and disorder b) Public safety c) The prevention of public nuisance and d) The protection of children from harm.

1.7 The Licensing Register The Licensing Register contains details of all Premises Licences and Club Premises Certificates. The register is available online at: http://licensing.rochdale.gov.uk/1/WcaHome

1.8 Operating schedule Document prepared by an applicant as an essential part of the application. It will detail the licensable activities to be carried out at the premises, the hours of operation which may be different for different activities, the steps to be taken to support the licensing objectives and where alcohol is sold details of the designated premises supervisor.

1.9 Relevant Representations There are various types of applications that can be made under the Act, and in most cases representations are invited in relation to them. However, to be considered by an Authority they must be ‘relevant representations’ as defined by the Act.

A ‘relevant representation’ is one that is made in writing and:  is about the likely effect of the licence on the promotion of the licensing objectives;  has been made by a responsible authority, or other person as defined by the Act, within the relevant time period as prescribed by regulation;  has not been withdrawn; and

3  has not been determined by the Licensing Authority as frivolous or vexatious or repetitious.

1.10 Responsible Authorities – bodies defined within the Act as detailed at Appendix A.

1.11 Secretary of State’s Guidance Guidance issued under Section 182 of the Act. To which the Licensing Authority must have regard in discharging its duties.

1.12 The Policy The Statement of Licensing Policy as produced by Rochdale Borough Council Licensing Authority.

1.13 Appendices A) Consultees and Responsible Authorities B) Exercise and Delegation of Functions C) Statutory Qualifying Conditions for Clubs D) The Hypnotism Act 1952: Conditions

1.14 Consultees A list of consultees can be found at Appendix A.

Further details about the licensing and application process, including application forms and/or any related licensing matter, can be obtained from:

Rochdale Borough Council Licensing Service Number One Riverside Smith Street Rochdale OL16 1XU

Telephone: 01706 924114 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rochdale.gov.uk

1.15 Useful web links http://licensing.rochdale.gov.uk/1/WcaHome - Rochdale Council’s Licensing Authority Public Register www.rochdale.gov.uk – Rochdale Borough Council website www.gov.uk – contains the Licensing Act 2003 and associated regulations

1.17 Please Note: Whilst this policy endeavours to reflect the legal requirements of the Licensing Act 2003, the Act rather than the Policy will be the definitive reference source for such requirements.

4 Background

5 2.0 INTRODUCTION

2.1 Rochdale Borough Council is the Licensing Authority for the Metropolitan area of Rochdale under the provisions of the Act and is responsible for the regulation of licensing matters within the borough.

2.2 The Act requires the Council to produce a Statement of Licensing Policy every 5 years. This policy was published on XXXX 2016 and will be due for review no later than XXXX 2021. It can be reviewed at any time during the 5 year period, with any changes being subject to statutory consultation.

2.3 The Policy is published under Section 5 of the Act and states how Rochdale Borough Council, as the Licensing Authority, will exercise its licensing functions in order to promote the four Licensing Objectives which are:

 The prevention of crime and disorder;  The prevention of public nuisance;  Public safety; and  The protection of children from harm.

2.4 Each licensing objective is considered to be of equal importance within this Policy. They will be considered in relation to matters centred on the premises or within the control of the licensee and the effect if any, which the carrying on of that business has on the vicinity.

2.5 The Authority recognises that the entertainment/leisure industry is a major contributor to the economy and cultural development of the Borough.

2.6 The Authority wishes to encourage licensees to provide a wide range of entertainment activities within the Borough throughout their opening hours and to promote live music, dance, theatre etc., for the wider cultural benefit of the community, and will seek to monitor the effects of licensing on these activities.

2.7 The Authority will endeavour to carry out its licensing functions in a way that ensures public safety, supports well managed premises where licence holders display sensitivity to the potential impact of activities on local residents and other businesses, and protects residents from detrimental effects.

2.8 The Authority will have regard to how littering and fouling, noise, street crime and the capacity of the Authority’s infrastructure, resources and police resources impact on the licensing objectives.

2.9 In adopting this policy, the Authority recognises that each application will be considered on its individual merits.

2.10 The Authority will work in partnership with the police, residents and all local businesses to promote the licensing objectives, and to implement strategies to achieve them.

6 3.0 OVERVIEW OF THIS POLICY

3.1 The overall aim of this policy is to actively promote the Licensing Objectives. It seeks to provide information and guidance to applicants, responsible authorities and any person who may be affected or interested in licensing matters. It clarifies the manner in which the Council will consider applications and how it will approach matters relating to licensing. It will also set out what the Licensing Authority expects of licence holders and how they can contribute to the promotion of the Licensing Objectives

3.2 In preparing and publishing this policy, the guidance issued by the Secretary of State for the Home Office under section 182 of the Licensing Act 2003 has been taken into account along with good practice advice issued by approved government advisory bodies.

3.3 The policy has regard for the Council’s statutory responsibility under the Health and Social Care Act 2012 for the health of the population of Rochdale and notes that it is a public health priority to reduce alcohol related harm.

3.4 The policy also takes into account the Council’s statutory duty under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 to have regard to the need to do all that it reasonably can to prevent crime and disorder, misuse of drugs and alcohol reoffending in the area.

3.5 The Licensing Authority will always have regard for its obligations under the Equality Act 2010, and will ensure that the policy does not disproportionately impact any particular equality group.

3.6 The Licensing Authority has taken account of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011, the Live Music Act 2012 and the Deregulation Act 2015, which brought in legislative changes to the Act which have been reflected in this Policy.

3.7 The Licensing Authority is committed to protecting children from harm and recognises how an effective licensing regime can assist and inform other agencies in helping to tackle child sexual exploitation (CSE).

4.0 CONSULTATION ON THIS POLICY

4.1 In accordance with Section 5(3) of the Act, the following were consulted in order to finalise this policy:

 The Chief Officer of Police in Rochdale;  The local Fire Authority;  Public Health Department Rochdale Borough Council  Such persons the Licensing Authority considers to be representative of holders of Premises Licences in Rochdale;  Such persons the Licensing Authority considers to be representative of holders of Club Premises Certificates in Rochdale;  Such persons the Licensing Authority considers to be representative of holders of Personal Licences issued in Rochdale; and  Such other persons the Licensing Authority considers to be representative of businesses and residents in Rochdale. 4.2 A list of the consultees can be found at Appendix A.

7 5.0 THE INTEGRATION OF POLICIES

5.1 Whilst the overall aim of this Policy is to promote the Licensing Objectives, it is recognised that there are other key Council policies, Government and partnership agency policies in place, which also contribute to the Council Plan. This Policy integrates as far as reasonably possible with those strategies/policies, such as:

 Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy  Enforcement Concordat  Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy  National Drug Strategy & Local treatment Plans  Safer Nightlife  LACORS/TSI Code of Practice on Test Purchasing  Culture and Tourism Strategies  Greater Manchester Local Transport Policy  Rochdale Unitary Development Plan and documents prepared as part of the Local Development Framework  Rochdale Borough current Community Strategy  Rochdale Borough Local Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy  Rochdale Borough Economic Strategy

5.2 Licensing regulation also forms part of an overall strategy to address issues generated by licensed premises. Licensing will work in partnership with other Council departments and agencies with a view to promoting the Licensing Objectives. Other controls include:

 Planning control;  Positive measures to create safe and attractive town and district centres;  Powers of the Council to designate public areas where the consumption of alcohol is not permitted;  The confiscation of alcohol from adults and children in designated areas;  Police enforcement of disorder and anti-social behaviour;  Prosecution of personal licence holders and staff for selling alcohol to persons who are under age or drunk;  Police powers to close down instantly any licensed premises on the grounds of disorder or likelihood of disorder or excessive noise emanating from the premises;  Powers of the Council under the Environmental Protection Act and Health and Safety at Work Act;  Power of a Responsible Authority, or other person to seek a review of a licence; and  Alcohol misuse and dependency/Reducing alcohol related harm

6.0 TACKLING CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION (CSE)

6.1 The Licensing Authority is committed to protecting children from harm. It recognises that alcohol use, misuse and abuse is one of the recurring key ‘parental factors’ in child protection and safeguarding, often contributing to parental neglect of children and domestic abuse and violence within families.

8 6.2 Alcohol is also reported as a factor in CSE. Young people are encouraged or coerced into drinking alcohol, leaving them vulnerable to perpetrators of CSE. Licensed premises have been implicated nationally in the involvement with CSE, either taking place on the licensed premises or the premises being used for the purposes of grooming and enticement.

6.3 The Licensing Authority will report any issues of concern regarding the safeguarding of children to the appropriate safeguarding authorities and will act on any reports from them accordingly in relation to the promotion of the Licensing Objectives. Where there are serious concerns and/or any criminal investigations in relation to the abuse of children in connection with a licensed premises, serious consideration will be given to lodging a review of the premises licence / certificate as it relates to the negative impact on the Licensing Objectives and in particular crime and disorder and the protection of children from harm.

6.4 The Licensing Authority expects licence holders and operators of licensed premises:

 To understand that the sexual exploitation of a child is a criminal offence;  To ensure that they and their employees are fully aware of the signs of CSE and how to report it;  To report any concerns to the appropriate authorities or to the Licensing Authority who will then flag up their concerns to the relevant safeguarding professionals on their behalf.

7.0 AUTHORITY PROFILE

7.1 The Authority is one of the 10 Metropolitan Districts of Greater Manchester.

7.2 Rochdale is a large market town in Greater Manchester. It lies amongst the foothills of the Pennines on the River Roch, 5.3 miles north-northwest of Oldham, and 9.8 miles north-northeast of the city of Manchester. The Borough of Rochdale has an approximately total population of 206,500 people. It occupies an area of 16,100 hectares and is based on the townships of Rochdale, Middleton, Heywood and Pennines.

7.3 The Authority currently licences:

 476 Premises Licences with Alcohol  124 Premises Licences without Alcohol  59 Club Premises Certificates with the provision for Alcohol  1651 Personal Licence Holders

8.0 SCOPE AND CONTEXT OF THE POLICY

8.1 Applications for new premises licences or variations need to be supported by an operating schedule. The schedule must specify (amongst other things) the steps which the applicant proposes to promote each of the Licensing Objectives.

8.2 If no relevant representation is made with regard to the application, the Authority must grant the application as set out in the operating schedule, subject only to mandatory conditions under the Act. Steps proposed by the applicant within the operating schedule will become licence conditions. The licensing authority will have

9 no discretion to refuse the application or to alter or add to the conditions arising from the operating schedule.

8.3 Where there are relevant representations, then a Licensing Sub-Committee Hearing will normally follow. The Licensing Sub-Committee must, having regard to the representation and take such steps as it considers appropriate to promote the Licensing Objectives. These may include refusing the application, or adding to or modifying the conditions proposed in the operating schedule.

8.4 In exercising its discretion, the Licensing Sub-Committee will have regard (amongst other things) to this Policy. In preparing their operating schedule, applicants are advised to read the Policy carefully. Where an operating schedule complies with this Policy, it is generally less likely that a responsible authority or other person will object to it. Compliance with this Policy is likely to assist the applicant to avoid the delay and expense of a contested hearing and the risk of a refusal or the addition of unwanted licence conditions.

8.5 This is not to say that an opposed application which complies with the Policy will necessarily be granted or that an opposed application which does not comply with it will necessarily be refused. Where there have been relevant representations, the Authority will always consider the merits of the case for the promotion of the Licensing Objectives. Blanket or standard conditions will not be applied without regard to the merits of the individual case.

8.6 The Policy represents the Authority’s view of the best means of securing the Licensing Objectives in most normal cases. It has been drawn up in consultation with other expert bodies and responsible authorities, together with community stakeholders. While the contents of the operating schedule are a matter for the applicant, where there is objection to a schedule which departs from the Policy, the Licensing Sub-Committee hearing an opposed application will normally expect to be given a good reason for the departure if it is to be asked to make an exception to the Policy.

8.7 In this Policy, there are a number of references to the licensing Authority’s expectations of applicants. As explained above, the Policy is only engaged where the Authority has a discretion following the receipt of objections. In such cases, the Authority will not apply the policy rigidly, but will always have regard to the merits of the case with a view to promoting the Licensing Objectives.

8.8 Further, the licensing authority may use this Policy when exercising other licensing functions. For example, when considering an application for review of a licence, the Authority is likely to view with concern premises which are being operated in clear breach of the terms of this Policy.

8.9 In undertaking its licensing functions, the Authority will be mindful of other legislation which may impact on the promotion of the Licensing Objectives, for example:

 Crime and Disorder Act 1998 in particular Section 17;  Environmental Protection Act 1990 (as amended);  Noise Act 1996;  The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014;  Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 (including powers for the Local Authority to issued fixed penalty notices to licensed premises emitting noise that exceeds the permitted level between 11pm and 7am);

10  Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006;  Police and Crime Act 2009;  Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011;  Health Act 2006;  European Union Services Directives;  Human Rights Act 1998;  Equality Act 2010

8.10 The Authority will not attempt to regulate matters that are provided for in other legislation through its licensing functions. Duplication with other legislation and regulatory agencies will be avoided as far as possible and conditions will only be attached to licences which are appropriate for the promotion of the Licensing Objectives.

8.11 The Policy sets out a general approach to the making of licensing decisions that are compatible with the Licensing Act 2003 and the associated guidance. It does not prevent any individual from making any application and having it considered on its individual merits. Nor does it seek to override the right of any person to make representations on an application or to seek a review where the Act allows them to do so. When considering applications the Authority will take into account all relevant representations, and the measures to support the licensing objectives taken by or proposed by the applicant through the operating schedule. The Authority recognises that unless relevant representations are received in respect of an application there is no provision for the Licensing Authority, to refuse an application or impose conditions on a licence other than those proposed within the application.

8.12 The Policy is integral in managing the role licensed premises play throughout the Borough. A key aim of the Policy is to ensure that licensed premises have a positive impact on their locality. The Authority is aware of the need to avoid the imposition of conditions and other controls, which could deter some forms of live entertainment. Only proportionate and reasonable controls that are appropriate for the promotion of the Licensing Objectives will be considered.

8.13 The Policy aims to strike a balance between the safety and amenity of residents, visitors, businesses and those working or engaged in normal activity in and around the Borough. It seeks to support the Borough as a desirable destination for the widest range of user groups. In embracing a vision for the development of a successful and vibrant night time and evening economies, it will encourage an entertainment and cultural offer with a diverse range of activity rather than premises focused mainly or exclusively on the sale of alcohol. The Policy and seeks to support the philosophy of Purple Flag.

8.14 The Policy cannot detail every factor that influences the achievement of the Licensing Objectives nor can it detail all the control measures that may be appropriate. Individual applicants and licence holders must consider the licensing objectives and control measures with regard to the particular nature of their business. Additional opportunities for licensable activities must be matched by appropriate and proportional measures to support the Licensing Objectives.

8.15 The Policy is designed to deal with matters within the control of the licence/club certificate holder on and in the vicinity of their premises. It is not a mechanism for the general control of anti-social behaviour by individuals once they are beyond the direct control of the licensee or licensed premises.

11 8.16 Whilst the policy is prepared for the Authority’s area it will also take account of the position in adjoining Authorities where common boundaries are relevant in licensing terms. 8.17 In some cases additional licences may be required under separate legislation, for example, sexual entertainment venue licences etc.

8.18 The Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 and the Health and Social Care Act 2012, amends the 2003 Act so as to include a Local Authority’s ‘Public Health’ department as a responsible Authority. As a responsible authority, the Public Health department can make representations in relation to applications for the grant, variation, minor variation or review of premises licences and club premises certificates; in addition, public health may themselves seek a review of a premises licence. Any representation must be specific to the premises and cannot be a general objection. Representations should be evidence-based and should demonstrably refer to one or more of the Licensing Objectives. As there is no Licensing Objective relating to public health, the public health department must ensure representations are relevant to one of the four existing objectives.

9.0 LICENSABLE ACTIVITIES

9.1 This policy relates to the licensable activities defined by the Act, namely:-

a) retail sales of alcohol b) the supply of alcohol by or on behalf of a club c) the provision of regulated entertainment, being:

i) performance of a play ii) exhibition of a film iii) an indoor sporting event iv) boxing or wrestling entertainment v) performance of live music vi) playing of recorded music (excluding incidental music) vii) a performance of dance viii) entertainment of a similar description to that falling within v, vi and vii)

where the entertainment takes place in the presence of an audience.

d) the provision of late night refreshment at any time between 11.00pm and 5.00am for consumption on or off the premises.

9.2 The meaning of the licensable activity ‘regulated entertainment’ is complex and has been subject to a series of Government deregulation measures. It covers live or recorded music, dance, plays, films and some sporting activities, however there are a number of exemptions and restrictions on the types of activities subject to licensing. In addition to this the Deregulation Act 2015 and Live Music Act 2012 means that live and recorded music at certain times of the day and in certain circumstances (for audiences less than 500 people and/or that which takes place between 8am and 11pm), is no longer regulated.

9.3 An authorisation for regulated entertainment is however always required for all of the above activities that take place before 8am and after 11pm, unless exempted under any other provision of the Act.

12 9.4 Please contact the Licensing Authority for further information on such matters:

Telephone: 01706 924114 Email: [email protected]

13 Licensing Objectives

10.0 LICENSING OBJECTIVE – PREVENTION OF CRIME AND DISORDER

10.1 Personal Licences

The Licensing Authority recognises it has very little discretion regarding the granting of these licences. In general, provided an applicant has a qualification determined by the Home Office and does not have certain criminal convictions, the application must be granted.

If an applicant has a relevant conviction the police can oppose the application. If an objection is lodged by the police, a hearing of the Licensing Authority’s Licensing Sub-Committee will be held. (For further information on Personal Licences, please refer to paragraph 25.0).

Policy

At that hearing the Authority will consider carefully whether the grant of the licence will be in the interests of the crime prevention objective. It will consider the seriousness and relevance of the conviction(s), the period that has elapsed since the offence(s) were committed and any mitigating circumstances. The Authority will only grant the application if it is satisfied that doing so will promote this objective.

Reason

Prevention of crime is both an objective of the Licensing Act 2003 and an important responsibility of the Council under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. A person holding a personal licence should be a person who is not only properly qualified but a person who will assist the fight against crime. Granting a licence to a known criminal will in many cases undermine rather than promote the crime prevention objective.

10.2 Prevention of Crime

Policy

In appropriate cases, the Authority will expect the applicant to indicate in his/her Operating Schedule the steps proposed to prevent crime and disorder, such as:

 Use of CCTV both within and outside the premises.  Metal detection and search facilities.  Measures to prevent the use or supply of illegal drugs.  Employment and regulation of licensed door supervisors and other appropriately trained staff.  Active participation in an appropriate Pub & Club Watch Scheme, or other scheme designed to ensure effective liaison with

14 the local community, the relevant authorities and other licensees.  Participation in a local radio/pager link scheme.  A Dispersal Policy.

This list is not exhaustive and is provided, simply, to provide examples of appropriate proposals for inclusion in an operating schedule.

Reason

Prevention of crime is both an objective of the Licensing Act 2003 and an important responsibility of the Council under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. It is important, therefore, that the applicant be able to demonstrate to the Authority the practical steps that will be taken to further this objective.

10.3 Cumulative Impact

Policy

Where the Licensing Authority receives representations from a responsible authority or an interested party that the cumulative effect of new licences is leading to an area becoming saturated with premises making it a focal point for large groups to gather in and circulate away from, and that this is creating exceptional problems of disorder and/or nuisance over and above the impact of the individual premises, the Licensing Authority can properly consider whether or not the granting of an additional licence might lead to one or more of the Licensing Objectives being undermined.

That said, nothing in this policy will seek to limit the number of licensed premises simply because the Authority, any interested party or responsible authority considers that there are enough licensed premises to satisfy demand. This is properly a commercial decision for the applicant. The Authority also recognises that the economic regeneration of an area can have positive effects on issues such as crime and disorder.

However, the Authority recognises that a potential cumulative effect of a proliferation of late night entertainment premises (including night cafes) may result in an increase in numbers of people either walking through or congregating in streets during the night and this in turn may have a number of undesirable consequences, as set out below:

 An increase in crime against both property and persons  An increase in noise causing disturbance to residents  Traffic congestion and/or parking difficulties  Littering and fouling

This may result in the amenity of local residents being placed under severe pressure, and it will not always be possible to attribute a particular problem to customers of particular premises. This means that, whilst enforcement action to ensure conditions are complied with is taken, this may not resolve all problems.

The Authority recognises that only a minority of consumers may behave badly.

It should be re-iterated that the Licensing Policy is only one means of addressing the problems identified above. Other mechanisms include:

15  Planning controls  Powers of local authorities to designate parts of the local authority area as places where alcohol may not be consumed publicly and confiscation of alcohol in these areas  Police powers to close down premises or temporary events on the grounds of disorder, the likelihood of disorder or excessive noise  Prosecution of personal licence holders who sell alcohol to people who are drunk  Powers of the Police, responsible authorities or local residents or businesses to seek a review of a premises licence or club certificate  Police enforcement of the general law concerning disorder and anti-social behaviour  Use of CCTV  Metal detection and search facilities  Minimising risks from drink promotions and similar  Drug control policies, including installation of drug safes  Use of trained security and other staff  Participation in local trade liaison schemes, such as Pub & Club Watch where available and including radio/communications schemes  Consideration of use of Anti-Social Behaviour Orders  Transport provision

Where there is evidence that a particular area of the district is already suffering adverse effects arising from the concentration of late night premises, or that residential areas are under stress, this will be taken into account in determining any further application for premises within any area identified.

As such, the Authority will take into account:

 The character of the surrounding areas  The impact of the licence on the surrounding area, both individually and cumulatively with existing licences; and  The nature and character of the proposed operation

In considering all licence applications, the Authority will consider the adequacy of measures proposed to deal with the potential for nuisance and/or public disorder and to support the licensing objectives.

Reason

The ‘cumulative impact’ of the granting of an additional/variations to premises licences on the promotion of the Licensing Objective to prevent crime and disorder is a proper matter for the Licensing Authority to consider under this policy.

However the policy will not seek to limit the number of licensed premises which will be permitted, simply because the Licensing Authority considers that there are already enough licensed premises to satisfy the demand.

10.4 Special Saturation Policy

Policy

The Licensing Authority will consider adopting a special saturation policy if it considers that an area is already saturated with licensed premises. Before a Special Saturation Policy is adopted, the following must take place:-

16  Identification of concern about Crime and Disorder or Public Nuisance;  Consideration of whether it can be demonstrated that Crime and Disorder and nuisance are arising and are caused by the customers of licensed premises, and if so identifying the area from which problems are arising and the boundaries of that area; or that the risk factors are such that the area is reaching a point when a cumulative impact is imminent;  Consultation with those specified by section 5(3) of the 2003 Act as part of the general consultation required in respect of the whole statement of licensing policy  Subject to that consultation, inclusion of a special policy about the future premises licence or club premises certificate applications from that area within the terms of this licensing policy.  Publication of the Special Policy as part of this licensing policy.

If a Special Saturation Policy is adopted, it will be reviewed every three years to see if it is still needed or it has had the desired effect.

Reason

This section provides the framework to facilitate the Licensing Authority adopting a special saturation policy where this is deemed necessary to support the licensing objective of preventing crime and disorder.

10.5 Sex-Related Activities

Where the activities proposed under the licence include those of a sex-related nature (e.g. topless waitresses, striptease, table dancing) the Authority will take into account the increased risk to the licensing objectives. For the sake of convenience the term “striptease” in this part of the policy should be taken to refer to any entertainment or service involving exposure of private parts or the sexual stimulation of patrons.

Policy

It will be the policy of the Licensing Authority not normally to grant licences which involve a sex related element near schools, churches, hospitals, youth clubs or other sensitive premises where significant numbers of children are likely to attend. Where such licences are granted it will impose conditions designed to ensure that children are not admitted to and cannot witness these activities and to prevent crime and disorder problems. For example:

The area proposed for striptease shall:

 be in a position where the performance cannot be seen from the street;  be in a designated area of the premises with segregation from the audience;  be in a position where the performers will have direct access to the dressing room without passing through or in close proximity to the audience.

Whilst striptease entertainment is taking place no person under the age of 18 shall be on the licensed premises and a clear notice shall be displayed at each entrance to the premises in a prominent position, so that it can be easily read by persons entering the premises, in the following terms:

NO PERSON 18 WILL BE ADMITTED

17 To prevent the possibility of children seeing unsuitable advertising material the Policy of the Authority will be to attach a condition to the effect that “Except with the consent of the Licensing Authority there shall be no external advertising of the striptease entertainment either at the premises or in its immediate vicinity.”

In considering the grant of applications involving striptease the Authority will also have regard to the increased risk of nuisance to nearby residents and will consider rejecting the application or attaching appropriate conditions.

Reason

These policies are designed to further the licensing objective of protecting children by preventing them being exposed to unsuitable material or acts. They are also designed to further the crime prevention and prevention of nuisance objectives by recognising the increased risk of nuisance or illegal activities posed by such activities.

10.6 Drugs

Almost every recent survey indicates that more people are taking illegal drugs and are using a wider range than ever before. This is particularly true of what are often referred to as ‘recreational drugs’. Their misuse can hold grave dangers and has even led to fatalities.

Other factors may have contributed to these deaths, such as lack of drinking water, excessive drinking of water, an overly hot environment with inadequate ventilation, or a lack of adequate information about drugs.

Drugs alter the way people behave, so their distribution and possession is controlled by law. Controlled drugs are usually manufactured and supplied illegally, which attracts criminal involvement in their distribution. Drugs manufactured illegally often vary in quality and strength. This puts people taking such drugs in danger.

The Authority recognises that drug-use by young people in a club environment is not something that is relevant to all licensed premises. However, many entertainment venues such as night clubs and dance venues can be popular both with drug misusers and suppliers, and there is evidence of increased use of drugs even in traditional community-type public houses.

Policy

The Authority will expect licensees of venues likely to be affected by drug issues to take all reasonable steps to prevent the entry of drugs into licensed premises, to take appropriate steps to prevent drugs changing hands within the premises and to take practical measures to prevent tragedies as a result of drug misuse.

In particular, the Authority will expect licensees of such venues to be familiar with the contents of Chapter 4 (drug awareness) of the BIIAB Level 2 National Certificate for Entertainment Licensees and to be following the recommendations of that handbook. The Authority will also expect licensees to be following the best practice guide on safer nightlife which builds on the safer clubbing published by the Home Office.

It is hoped that licensees will follow these recommendations on a voluntary basis as failure to do so could lead to the licence being reviewed with the possibility of

18 revocation. In appropriate cases the Authority will consider imposing the recommendations detailed in these documents by way of licence conditions. As part of the Operating Schedule for the premises, the Authority may require written drug control policies, which document the control measures in place.

Reason

The purpose of this policy is to further the crime prevention objective and to ensure public safety by preventing a tragic loss of life caused by drug abuse, overheating and other factors.

11.0 LICENSING OBJECTIVE – PROMOTING PUBLIC SAFETY

11.1 Venue Safety

Policy

The Authority will expect the premises to be constructed and maintained to the highest possible standards of safety. It will expect the applicant to have addressed the requirements of Health and Safety at Work and Fire Safety legislation and where appropriate the Technical Standards published by the District Surveyors Association.

Premises with large areas of ceiling that are unsupported, e.g. domed or vaulted ceilings to premises such as theatres, cinemas, etc. may require specific structural assessments on a programmed basis.

The Authority will also expect that Operating Schedules will contain the significant findings of the fire risk assessments, including such matters as emergency evacuation, staff training and systems for ensuring the adequacy of safety equipment where appropriate.

The Authority will also expect the Operating Schedule to detail how the premises will be properly managed and maintained to ensure public and staff safety at all times.

Reason

Public safety is a very important licensing objective as it is about protecting the safety and the lives of patrons. It is the intention of the Authority that anyone visiting a licensed venue can do so in complete safety, confident that they are visiting premises that have been constructed with safety in mind and that are well managed and maintained.

11.2 Hypnotism

Policy

If an applicant wishes to have any performance of stage hypnotism at any time this should be addressed in the Operating Schedule. In the event of any performance of stage hypnotism the Authority will normally require written notification 8 weeks prior to the performance taking place. Where consent is given for this type of entertainment the council will impose specific licence conditions.

19 Reason

It is recognised that Hypnotism poses specific risks and therefore additional licensing conditions should be covered within the Operating Schedule, designed to ensure the safety of the audiences and in particular to ensure that children are not admitted to and cannot participate in such activities.

Examples of conditions relevant to Hypnotism can be found in Appendix D.

11.3 Drugs

The Authority recognises that the management of drug issues is relevant to the Licensing Objective to protect Public Safety. However the council’s policy in respect of drugs issues is outlined in paragraph 10.6.

12.0 LICENSING OBJECTIVE – PREVENTION OF PUBLIC NUISANCE

12.1 Licensing Hours

Policy

The Authority recognises that widespread fixed closing times in certain areas can lead to peaks of disturbance and disorder when large numbers of people emerge onto the streets at the same time. Flexible licensing hours, particularly where alcohol is involved, may therefore be an important factor in reducing friction at late night food outlets, taxi ranks and other late night services.

The Authority accepts the principle of activity taking place over 24 hours and 7 days a week.

No general restriction or limitation on hours in any area is imposed by this policy.

The hours requested by the applicant will normally be approved where the applicant can show that the proposal would not adversely affect the environmental quality, residential amenity and character of any particular area, and that the licensing objectives would not, in any other way, be compromised.

Shops, stores and supermarkets will generally be permitted to sell alcohol during the normal hours they intend to open for shopping. However, in the case of individual premises which are a focus for disorder and disturbance then, subject to representations, limitations may be appropriate.

It will be necessary for applicants, who wish to vary the hours during which alcohol is sold for consumption on the premises, to include in the Operating Schedule the times when the premises will open, when sales of alcohol will commence and cease, and the time when the premises will be closed. This will, in effect, facilitate “drinking up time”.

Where late hours are requested, particularly involving entertainment, the imposition of conditions may be necessary to ensure the achievement of the Licensing Objectives.

Reason This policy is aimed at the fulfilment of the licensing objective of “preventing public nuisance”.

20 12.2 Location and Impact of Activity

This part of the policy is concerned with whether a proposal is appropriate in a location with particular regard to the impact on any residential areas. In most of the Borough, which is predominantly residential, the policy will in appropriate cases limit the normal hours of opening for new licensed activities to a maximum time which is no later than midnight.

Later opening hours are considered to be acceptable, in principle, for premises in commercial areas with high levels of public transport accessibility. However, in all cases, the granting of a licence will depend on impact of an activity, particularly on local residents. It is necessary to consider, amongst other things, the level of impact that could arise from noise and vibration, litter, parking, people coming and going, transport, crowds and queuing; and whether any impact is particularly unacceptable late at night.

Policy

If relevant representations are received, the Authority will normally expect a closing time of no later than midnight for licensed premises in residential areas, but a later closing time may be permitted for premises located:

 in predominantly commercial areas,  where there is a high level of accessibility to public transport services; and  where there is an appropriate amount of car parking, readily accessible to the premises, and in places where vehicular movement will not cause demonstrable adverse impact to local residents; and  the Operating Schedule submitted with the application indicates that the applicant is taking appropriate steps to comply with the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance.

Exceptions may be made to permit a later closing time/earlier opening time where it can be demonstrated that:

 the licensed activities would not be likely to cause adverse impact especially on local residents, and that, if there is a potential to cause adverse impact, appropriate measures will be put in place to prevent it; and  there will not be any increase in the cumulative adverse impact from these or similar activities, on an adjacent residential area.

Reason

This part of the policy dealing with opening hours is based on a broad distinction between the approach to be taken in certain predominantly commercial areas, like parts of the town centres, and the rest of the Borough.

Any activity involving public entertainment or eating or drinking on the premises has the potential to impact adversely on the surrounding area due to noise, smells, or congestion on the footway. It may also be caused by the customers being noisy when leaving, leaving litter or taking up on-street car parking space in close proximity to residential premises. The impact of noise generated by these activities, especially

21 customers departing either on foot or in cars, is particularly intrusive at night when ambient noise levels are much lower.

12.3 Management of Potential Noise Nuisances

Policy

The applicant will be expected to propose practical steps to prevent disturbance to local residents in appropriate cases. In relation to noise from within the building the Authority will expect the applicant to have considered the likelihood of any sound leakage from the premises. This noise could relate not only to music but also to equipment or patrons. If there appears to be a potential for sound leakage the applicant will be able to address this in practical ways such as:

 Keeping doors and windows closed and providing adequate mechanical ventilation.  Reducing sound levels and installing a sound-limiting device to prevent sound exceeding the appropriate level.  Installing soundproofing measures to contain sound and vibration.

The Authority will expect popular venues, which attract queues, to formulate a system to avoid disturbance to residents. This can sometimes be achieved by simply ensuring that the direction of the queue is away from residential accommodation.

However, excessive noise and/or disorder require more rigorous action. It is important that queues formed later in the evening are supervised to keep noise to a minimum. This action can also help stop drug dealers from supplying drugs during the queuing process but the prime purpose is to prevent noise and disturbance. Door supervisors will generally carry out this role, but they must be given clear instructions as to their duties and responsibilities and be adequately supervised.

In terms of patrons leaving the premises, particularly late at night or early in the morning, the Authority will expect the applicant to have included in the Operating Schedule any practical steps considered appropriate, such as the examples given below, although there will be few premises that need to address all these:

 Erecting prominent notices at the exits to premises asking customers to leave quietly and not to slam car doors.  At appropriate times using the PA system to make announcements to the same effect.  Instructing door staff to ask customers leaving the premises to leave the area quietly.  Reducing the volume of music towards the end of the evening and where appropriate playing quieter, more soothing music as the evening winds down.  Availability of licensed Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicles to take patrons from the premises.  In appropriate cases door supervisors or a manager patrolling nearby streets to assess for themselves whether there is a problem and how best to deal with it.  Banning from the premises people who regularly leave in a noisy fashion.  Increasing outside lighting levels, where practicable without causing further nuisance.  Where there is a private forecourt, preventing patrons from using it for eating and drinking etc. after 11pm, or ensuring it is vacated 30 minutes before the terminal hour.

22  Ensuring that customers are not permitted to take open bottles or glasses of alcohol out of the premises.  Taking appropriate steps where necessary to deal with noxious smells and light pollution.

Reason

One of the greatest irritations to residents trying to sleep is the sound of music escaping from licensed premises. Such an escape of sound might preclude the grant of a licence or, if one has already been granted, for it to be reviewed with a view to possible revocation. It might also lead to a Noise Abatement notice being issued under the Environmental Protection Act by the responsible authority. Responsible applicants and licensees will wish to avoid the need for such action, as they will wish to comply with the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance.

There can be little doubt that a well-managed licensed venue can benefit the local community. On the other hand, there is clearly a risk of local residents being disturbed, particularly if the venue is open late at night.

This is because people leaving the premises, particularly late at night or in the early hours of the morning, can be a significant problem. Customers may be less inhibited about their behaviour and may be unaware of the noise they are creating.

The area will be generally quieter and any noise will, therefore, be amplified and provide more disturbance for residents. Clearly a responsible applicant or licensee will wish to further the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance by introducing practical measures, such as those referred to above, to prevent such nuisance.

12.4 Consideration of the Impact of Licensed Activities

Policy

When considering whether any licensable activity should be permitted, on receipt of any relevant representations, the Authority will assess the likelihood of it causing unacceptable adverse impact, particularly on local residents, by considering the following factors amongst other relevant matters:

 the type of use, the number of customers likely to attend the premises and the type of customers at the time of the application;  the proposed hours of operation;  the level of public transport accessibility for customers either arriving or leaving premises and the likely means of public or private transport that will be used by the customers;  the means of access to the premises, which should have customer entrances on the principal pedestrian routes;  the cumulative impact of licensed premises in an area;  the scope for mitigating any impact;  how often the activity occurs.

and, in considering any application for a premises which is already licensed, the Authority will take into account any evidence:

 of past demonstrable adverse impact from the activity, especially on local residents;

23 or  that, if adverse impact has been caused, appropriate measures have been agreed and put into effect by the applicant to mitigate the adverse impact. If, however, such measures have not been put into effect or there has been insufficient time to assess them, this could impact on the determination of the application; or  of past history of the premises, where there have been no relevant complaints or problems.

Reason

The prime purpose of this part of the policy is to achieve the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance. In furtherance of this aim the policy lists particular matters that the Authority will take into account in considering whether a licensed activity is likely to cause an adverse impact, particularly to local residents:

 The precise nature of the activity, especially for entertainment, will be a factor in considering the impact, principally in terms of the age and orderliness of the customers.  Levels of noise from licensed premises, which may be acceptable at certain times of day, may not be acceptable later in the evening or at night when ambient noise levels are much lower.  The Authority's preference is to see licensed activities located in places where customers are not reliant on private car use, and can walk or use public transport. The Borough varies considerably. In town centres, a high use of public transport could be expected by the customers of licensed premises but, even there, car use is likely to increase when activities go on very late. Consequently, there could be unacceptable parking and traffic in nearby residential areas.  The main impact of customers arriving, queuing and leaving should be confined to principal pedestrian routes as far as possible. It would not be appropriate, for instance, to have licensed activities which cause large numbers of people to exit into a residential area as opposed to a situation where pedestrian movement takes place directly to and from nearby public transport services.  Car parking by customers of licensed premises can be a serious problem. This affects local residents in terms of noise and their ability to find a parking space, particularly after the hours when any controlled parking zones are in operation. It can also affect the movement of essential traffic on primary routes and delay bus and emergency services. When considering the possible impact on residents, the Authority will look at the area within which the impact could be experienced, in particular the likely distance at which most customers arriving by car would seek to park. The potential parking area for major entertainments can be substantial.

With any adverse impact it may be possible to take steps to mitigate or prevent the impact and if such measures are reliable an activity may be licensed. In accordance with Government advice, the decisions taken by the Authority will obviously be focused on matters within the control of individual licensees, and others granted relevant permissions, and the steps they can take to achieve the licensing objectives. Accordingly, these matters will centre on the premises and places being used for licensable activities and the likely impact of those activities on members of public living, working or engaged in normal activity in the area concerned.

24 In taking its decisions the Authority accepts the difficulty a licence holder has in preventing anti-social behaviour by individuals, once they are beyond the direct control of that licence holder. However, it will also take into account that the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance will not be achieved if patrons from licensed premises regularly engage in anti-social activities to the detriment of nearby residents or businesses. Furthermore it will also take into account its responsibility under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 to do all it can to prevent crime and disorder in the Borough.

The aim of the policy is, therefore, to achieve a balanced approach to these difficult issues.

12.5 Cumulative Impact

The Authority recognises that the issue of Cumulative Impact is relevant to the Licensing Objective to prevent Public Nuisance. However the Authority’s Policy in respect of Cumulative Impact is outlined in paragraph 10.3.

12.6 Special Saturation Policy

The Authority recognises that Special Saturation Policies are relevant to the Licensing Objective to prevent Public Nuisance. However the Authority’s Policy in respect of Special Saturation Policies is outlined in paragraph 10.4.

13.0 LICENSING OBJECTIVE – PROTECTION OF CHILDREN FROM HARM

13.1 Children

Policy

The Authority recognises that the Act allows for the free access of children to all licensed premises, subject to the licensee’s discretion and any conditions applied to the licence. There is also the proviso that children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18 on premises licensed to sell alcohol. The Authority will not impose any conditions which specifically require access for children to be provided at any premises. Under normal circumstances access by children will remain a matter for the discretion of the individual licensee or club, subject to there being no conflict with the licensing objective to protect children from harm.

When considering applications for premises licences, the Authority will take into account the history of a particular premises and the nature of the activities proposed to be provided when considering any options appropriate to prevent harm to children. For example:

 Where there have been convictions of members of the current staff for serving alcohol to minors or with a reputation for underage drinking  With a known association with drug taking or dealing  Where there is a strong element of gambling on the premises, or  Where entertainment of an adult or sexual nature is commonly provided

In these circumstances, conditions may be attached to any licence to:-

 Limit the hours when children may be present

25  Restrict the age of persons allowed on a premises  Limit or exclude when certain activities may take place, or  Require an accompanying adult.

In premises showing films a mandatory condition will restrict access only to those who meet the required age limit in accordance with any certificate granted by the British Board of Film Classification or, in specific cases, a certificate given to the film by the Authority.

Where large numbers of unaccompanied children are likely to be present, for example, a children’s show or pantomime, conditions may be imposed requiring the presence of an appropriate number of adult staff to ensure public safety and protection from harm.

For the purpose of this policy, the Licensing Authority recognises the following body as “the responsible body” to advise on matters relating to the protection of children from harm:

Rochdale Borough Council Safeguarding Children Unit Number One Riverside Smith Street Rochdale OL16 1XU

Reason

These policies are designed to allow flexibility for the licensee to ensure that, where appropriate, licensed premises are “user friendly” for children, but also to ensure that they are adequately protected.

13.2 Sex- Related Activities

The Authority recognises that the provision of sex related activities is relevant to the Licensing Objective to protect Children from Harm. However the Authority’s Policy in respect of provision of sex-related activities is outlined in paragraph 10.5.

13.3 Proof of Age

The consumption of alcohol by people under the age of 18 is a serious problem that the Authority is keen to address. Licensees are, therefore, encouraged to seriously consider the adoption of a policy within their Operating Schedule for the production of proof of age by young people attempting to purchase alcohol. It is suggested that any scheme adopted should comply with the PASS accreditation system, and should include passports and photo-driving licences.

26 Other Important Information

14.0 PLANNING AND LICENSING

14.1 There are a number of key differences between licensing and planning control. Licensing is concerned with the operation and management of the premises whereas planning control relates to the use of the premises.

14.2 The Licensing Authority recognises that there should be a clear separation of the licensing, planning and building controls to avoid duplication and inefficiency. Licensing applications should not be seen as a re-run of any planning application. Licensing Committees are not bound by decisions made by a planning committee and vice versa.

14.3 The granting of a premises licence does not negate the need to obtain the appropriate planning permission and/or building control approval.

14.4 When exercising its licensing functions, the Licensing Authority will not be influenced by a question of need, unless there is a Cumulative Impact Policy in place for the area in which the premises is situated. The issue of whether or not there is a need for a particular premises is a commercial matter and not relevant to the Licensing Authority’s considerations.

14.5 There may be circumstances when, as a condition of planning permission, a terminal hour has been set for the use of premises for commercial purposes. Where these hours are different to the licensed hours, the earlier closing time must be observed. Any premises operating in breach of their planning permission would be liable to enforcement action under planning law.

14.6 Building Regulations govern a variety of issues which directly contribute to the Licensing Objectives, including means of escape, structural integrity, accessibility and public safety. Building Regulation Approval and Completion Certificates may be required prior to the use of the premises for licensable activities.

27 15.0 PROVISIONAL STATEMENTS

15.1 The Authority recognises that in certain situations businesses and developers need to have security that a premises licence is likely to be granted following construction of new premises or alteration of existing unlicensed premises.

The Authority will issue provisional statements in accordance with the Act and guidance.

16.0 ENFORCEMENT

16.1 If the need arises enforcement action will be taken in accordance with the Authority’s agreed Enforcement and Prosecution Policy.

A protocol on the implementation of a shared enforcement role between the Authority, GMP and other agencies has been agreed by all parties.

In general terms, enforcement will be targeted on agreed problem, and high-risk, premises/activities which require greater attention. Premises which are well run and managed, and therefore present a lower risk, will enjoy a greater degree of self- regulation.

17.0 CONDITIONS

17.1 The Authority will, as far as it is possible to do so, avoid imposing disproportionate and over-burdensome conditions on premises. The Authority does not propose to implement standard conditions of licence across the board, but instead will draw upon the Model Pools of Conditions issued by the Home Office and attach conditions as appropriate given the circumstances of each individual case, where relevant representations are received.

The Authority reserves the right to require the use of Door Supervisors, in appropriate cases, in order to support the Licensing Objectives.

The Authority accepts the principle that conditions should not be imposed on licences to deal with issues that can be the subject of enforcement using existing legislation.

18.0 SPECIAL OCCASIONS

18.1 The Authority will follow any licensing hours orders made by the Secretary of State as regards to any special occasion.

19.0 PREMISES LICENCES

19.1 The Authority expects that, normally, there will be at least one Personal Licence holder on any licensed premises when alcohol is being sold or supplied.

The Authority also expects that, normally, premises providing entertainment, eg public houses, nightclubs, theatres, cinemas, etc, will have maximum capacities stated on the licences, to assist in the achievement of public safety, unless their Operating Schedules satisfy the Responsible Authorities that maximum capacities are not necessary. Such premises will also need to consider the provision of sufficient, adequately-trained first-aiders.

28 If it is intended to provide “special-risk” entertainments, which involve pyrotechnics, smoke, vapour, strobe lighting, lasers, etc., then it will be expected that these would be taken into account within the Operating Schedule.

20.0 CLUB PREMISES CERTIFICATES

20.1 The Act recognises that premises, to which public access is restricted and where alcohol is supplied other than for profit, give rise to different issues for licensing law than those presented by commercial enterprises selling direct to the public. For this reason, it preserves aspects of earlier alcohol licensing law as it applied to “registered members clubs”. These clubs are organisations where members have joined together for particular social, sporting or political purposes and then combined to buy alcohol in bulk as members of the organisation for supply in that context.

20.2 Clubs have traditionally not been “licensed” because “sales” do not take place there. The grant of a club premises certificate means that a qualifying club is entitled to certain benefits. These include:

 the authority to supply alcohol to members and sell it to guests on the premises to which the certificate relates without the need for any member or employee to hold a personal licence;  the absence of a requirement to specify a designated premises supervisor;  more limited rights of entry for the police and authorised persons because the premises are considered private and not generally open to the public;  the club premises not being subject to police powers of instant closure on grounds of disorder and noise nuisance (except when being used under the authority of a temporary event notice or premises licence) because they operate under their codes of discipline and rules which are rigorously enforced; and  not being subject to potential orders of the magistrates’ court for the closure of all licensed premises in an area when disorder is happening or expected.

20.3 Previously, registered members clubs also enjoyed another privilege of being outside the normal licensing regime: the freedom to sell alcohol to minors and allow them to consume it on the club premises. Although in recent years most clubs have operated voluntary rules which prohibit sales and supply of alcohol to those under 18 years old, the Act has removed this privilege and the sale or supply of alcohol to children in such clubs is now unlawful.

20.4 The new authority for the supply of alcohol, and provision of other licensable activities on qualifying club premises, is a club premises certificate and this is issued by the Licensing Authority.

20.5 The arrangements for applying for, or seeking to vary, club premises certificates are extremely similar to those in respect of a premises licence. Club Operating Schedules prepared by clubs, as with Operating Schedules for premises licences, must include the steps the club intends to take to promote the licensing objectives. These will be translated into conditions included in the certificate, unless the conditions have been modified by the Licensing Authority, following consideration of relevant representations by responsible authorities or interested parties.

20.6 The legislation detailing the statutory qualifying conditions for clubs is provided at Appendix C.

29 21.0 TEMPORARY EVENT NOTICES (TENS)

21.1 If a licensable activity is planned to take place on none licensed premises, the organiser can submit a Temporary Events Notice (TEN). A TEN can also be used to include additional licensable activities or alter the hours of operation on licensed premises. They can cover any period up to 168 hours. A TEN has to be served on the Police, Environmental Health and the Licensing Authority at least 10 working days prior to commencement of the event, a longer period is preferable wherever possible. There is nothing to prevent simultaneous notification of multiple events at a single time so long as the first event is at least 10 working days away and there must be at least 24 hours between events. Only the Police and Environmental Health can object to a TEN.

21.2 Standard TENs must be given a minimum of 10 working days prior to the first day of the event and the Licensing Authority recommend that wherever possible notice- givers submit their TEN a minimum of 28 days prior to the commencement of the event. There is provision for making an application for a late TEN. Such applications may be made no earlier than 9 working days before the event and no less than 5 working days before the event. The Licensing Authority understands this to mean 9 or 5 clear days exclusive of the day on which the event is to start and exclusive of the day on which the notice is given.

21.3 Where one or more of the relevant statutory limits are exceeded, the Licensing Authority will serve a Counter-Notice to prevent the licensable activities from going ahead. There is no provision under the Act to appeal against the issue of a Counter- Notice.

21.4 Greater Manchester Police or the Council’s Environmental Health service can issue an objection notice. The Licensing Authority will consider any such notice at a hearing (unless the objection notice is withdrawn before the hearing date). The hearing will be confined to consideration of the Licensing Objectives and will be held in accordance with the procedure. There is no provision for a hearing in the case of a late TEN.

21.5 The Licensing Authority will notify the applicant of its decision at least 24 hours before the beginning of the event period specified in the temporary event notice. Depending on the nature and location of such events, these can have serious crime and disorder implications. Whilst accepting that the statutory notification period is a minimum of 10 days organisers of these events are encouraged to submit their notification as soon as reasonably practicable to enable the Police and the Authority to work with them.

22.0 LATE NIGHT LEVY

22.1 The Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 introduced Late Night Levies. A Late Night Levy (LNL) enables Licensing Authorities to raise a contribution towards the costs of policing the Night Time Economy by charging a levy on holders of Premises Licences and Club Premises Certificates authorised to sell alcohol.

It would apply across the whole Borough and be applicable to any premises licensed to operate from a fixed time between 00.00 hrs – 06.00 hrs.

Any consideration for the introduction of a LNL would be the subject of separate formal consultation and, if it is to be introduced, must be adopted at a meeting of the full Council.

30 23.0 EARLY MORNING RESTRICTION ORDERS

23.1 The Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 also introduced Early Morning Restriction Orders (EMRO) which is a power enabling the Licensing Authority to prohibit the sale of alcohol for a specified time period between the hours of midnight and 6am in the whole or part of its area, if it is satisfied that this would be appropriate for the promotion of the licensing objectives.

23.2 EMROs are designed to address recurring problems such as high levels of alcohol related crime and disorder in specific areas at specific times, serious public nuisance and other instances of alcohol related anti-social behaviour which is not directly attributable to specific premises.

23.3 The Licensing Authority may consider whether an EMRO is appropriate once all other avenues to resolve problems associated with licensed premises and the promotion of the licensing objections have been exhausted. The EMRO can only be an appropriate step to promote the licensing objectives on the basis that it is reasonable, justified and proportionate in the circumstances.

24.0 SUSPENSION OF PREMISES LICENCES/CLUB PREMISES CERTIFICATES

24.1 The Licensing Authority is required to suspend a Premises Licence or Club Premises Certificate if the annual fee has not been paid when it is due. Where a Premises Licence or Club Premises Certificate has been suspended, no licensable activities can be lawfully carried out at the premises until the annual fee has been paid. The suspension will be lifted immediately upon payment of the fee and the licensable activities can be resumed.

25.0 PERSONAL LICENCES

25.1 The Authority recognises it has very little discretion regarding the granting of personal licences. In general, provided an applicant has a qualification determined by the Home Office and does not have certain criminal convictions, the application must be granted. A person holding a personal licence should be a person who is not only properly qualified but a person who will assist the police and relevant authorities in the fight against crime. Granting a licence to a person with a criminal history may in some cases undermine rather than promote the crime prevention objective.

25.2 If an applicant has a relevant conviction the police can oppose the application. If an objection is lodged by the police, a Licensing Sub-Committee will be held. The Licensing Sub-Committee will consider carefully whether the grant of the licence will be in conflict with the crime prevention objective. It will consider the seriousness and relevance of the conviction(s), whether the conviction is classed as spent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (as amended) the period that has elapsed since the offence(s) were committed and any mitigating circumstances. The Authority will only grant the application if it is satisfied that doing so will promote this objective. A person holding a personal licence should be a person who is not only properly qualified but a person who will assist the fight against crime.

25.3 Under the Deregulation Act 2015, any Personal Licence falling for renewal on or after 1st April 2015 will not now require to be renewed. Personal Licences will now remain in force indefinitely, unless surrendered, forfeited etc.

31 26.0 ADULT ENTERTAINMENT

26.1 Rochdale Borough Council has adopted the provisions of Schedule 3 Local Government [Miscellaneous Provisions] Act 1982 and has a separate policy which relates to adult entertainment venues and activities. Therefore, additional licences may be required under separate legislation for sexual entertainment venues.

27.0 THE LICENSING PROCESS

27.1 The duties of the Licensing Authority under the Act may be carried out by the Licensing Committee, by a Sub-committee or by one or more officers, acting under authority delegated to them by the Authority. The scheme of delegations of licensing functions under the Act can be found at Appendix B. 27.2 It is expected that many of the functions of the Authority will be largely administrative in nature, with no perceived areas of contention. In the interests of efficiency and cost-effectiveness these will, for the most part, be carried out by officers.

27.3 The Authority will expect applicants to address the Licensing Objectives in their Operating Schedules, having regard to the type of premises, the licensable activities proposed, the operational procedures, the nature of the location and the needs of the local community.

27.4 Applicants are also encouraged to make themselves aware of any relevant planning and transport policies, tourism and cultural strategies or local crime and disorder strategies, and to have taken these into account, where appropriate, in the formulation of their Operating Schedules.

27.5 The Authority will have regard to Guidance issued by the Home Office when determining applications. In particular, account will be taken of the need to encourage and promote live music, dancing and similar activities for the wider cultural benefit of the community as a whole, including such diverse art forms as street entertainment and circuses. If representations are made concerning the potential for disturbance in a particular neighbourhood, then those concerns will be carefully balanced against the wider benefits to the community.

27.6 When attaching conditions to a licence, the Authority will be aware of the need to avoid, as far as possible, measures which might deter live music, dancing or theatre through the imposition of substantial indirect costs. It will also monitor the impact of licensing on regulated entertainment, particularly live music and dancing.

32 Appendices

APPENDIX A – CONSULTEES AND RESPONSIBLE AUTHORITIES

Consultees

Greater Manchester Police Greater Manchester Fire Service RMBC – Children Safeguarding Unit RMBC – Environmental Health Service RMBC – Development Control Service RMBC – Public Health Department Pub and Club Watch On Line Mark Foxley (Chairman of the Rochdale Pub and Club Watch) J W Lees Rochdale Safer Communities Partnership Rochdale Cultural Trust Manchester Golf Club (representative of local holders of club certificates) Hopwood Unionist Club (representative of local holders of club certificates) Rochdale Federation of Tenants and Residents Association (bodies representing local businesses and residents) Rochdale Councillors Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Primary Care Trust Rochdale Development Agency Amber Taverns Nectar Taverns Amber Marketing Ltd Rochdale Law Association Bermans Solicitors Berwin Leighton Pasiner Bevan Brittan Blake Lapthorn Tarlo Lyons Bond Pearce LLP Browne Jacobson LLP Camden Management Services Ltd Cobbetts Cripps Harries Hall LLP Chinese Business Support County Estates Management (Pubs) Ltd Cross Partnership Daniel Hurd Associates Davies Wallis Foyster E.A.D Solicitors LLP Edwards Geldard Solicitors Forbes Solicitors Ford & Warren Fraser Brown Solicitors Freeth Cartwight LLP Forshaw Davies Solicitors George Davies Solicitors Gosschalks Solicitors

33 Gordons LLP Harrison Clark LLP Greens Solicitors Hillyer Mckeown Solicitors Hammonds Inncourt Hall & Co Shoosmiths John Gaunt & Partners JMC Licensing Joelson Wilson LLP JST Lawyers Keoghs Solicitors Kuit Steinart Levy Solicitors Kenneth Curtis & Co Locking Solicitors Lockett & Co Maitland Walker Solicitors Lawrence Graham LLP Licensed Solutions Ltd Lees Solicitors Licensing Legal Lin & Co Solicitors M & G Cooley Partnership Lunn Groves Matrix Solicitors McClellan’s Solicitors Nick Dickinson Licensing Ltd Next Legal Dept. Norton & Co Solicitors Pearson Hincliffe Solicitors Pinsent Masons Poppleston Allen Ricksons Solicitors Rasiah & Co Steels Sherrards Solicitors Stephenons Solicitors Silver Fox (Licensing) Consultants Ltd Trethowans TLT Solicitors Tubervilles Solicitors Winckworth Sherwood Waldron & Schofield W Licensing Ltd Anthony Collins LLP Crutes LLP Halsalls David Scholes Solicitors Hill Dickinson LESG (Licensing) Co Ltd The Bold Pub Company Wolverhampton & Dudley The Coach House Brewing Co Ltd Hardy’s & Hansons PLC

34 G & J Greenall Greene King Retailing Ltd Joseph Holt Ltd Hyde’s Brewery Marston’s PLC Frederic Robinson Ltd Compass Contract Services (UK) Ltd Scottish & Newcastle Pub Company Ltd County Estates Management (Pubs) Demar Services Ltd Dingle Bank Management Co Ltd Discount Booze Ltd Dpp Restaurants Ltd Farlane Property Group Ltd Freshway GP Retail Services Ltd Licensing Department Lidl UK GmbH Bargain Booze Head Office Punch Taverns PLC Pubfolio Ltd Young & Smith Ltd Tesco Licensing Team Zoe Orford Ltd Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers Association of Town Centre Managers British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) British Institute of Inn Keeping (BII) British Retail Consortium (BRC) Department for Culture, Media & Sport Cinema Exhibitor’s Association (CEA) Equity Independent Street Arts Network Institute of Licensing (IOL) Licensed Victuallers Associations (LVAs) National Pub Watch National Association of Local Government Arts Officers NOCTIS Daniel Thwaites PLC Mitchells & Butlers Leisure Retail ltd JD Wetherspoon PLC Co-Operative Group Ltd Admiral Taverns Ltd ASDA Stores Ltd Aldi Stores Ltd Enterprise Inns PLC Flint Bishop Solicitors

35 Responsible Authorities (Under the Act)

Beverley Wilkinson Umer Khan Rochdale Borough Council Greater Manchester Police Licensing Service Divisional HQ Number One Riverside The Holme Smith Street The Esplanade Rochdale Rochdale OL16 1XU OL16 1AG Tel: 01706 924114 Tel: 0161 872 5050 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Clive Smith Louise Dent GM Fire & Rescue Service Rochdale Borough Council Rochdale Central HQ Environmental Health Noise Nuisance Rochdale Fire Station Service Halifax Road Number One Riverside Rochdale Smith Street OL12 9BD Rochdale Tel: 01706 900110 OL16 1XU Email: Tel: 01706 924137 [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Gary Parkinson Rochdale Borough Council Rochdale Borough Council Planning Service Environmental Health, Health & Safety Number One Riverside Service Smith Street Number One Riverside Rochdale Smith Street OL16 1XU Rochdale Tel: 01706 924134 OL16 1XU Email: [email protected] Tel: 01706 924138 Development.controlenforcement@rochdale. Email: [email protected] gov.uk

Rochdale Borough Council Clare Whittle Safeguarding Children Unit Rochdale Borough Council Number One Riverside Trading Standards Service Smith Street Number One Riverside Rochdale Smith Street OL16 1XU Rochdale Tel: 01706 925395 / 925359 OL16 1XU Email: [email protected] Tel: 01706 924167 [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Wendy Meston Public Health Number One Riverside Smith Street Rochdale OL16 1XU Tel: 01706 652839 Email: [email protected]

36 APPENDIX B – EXERCISE AND DELEGATION OF FUNCTIONS

The Council Constitution delegates the governance arrangements in respect of the Licensing Act 2003 to the Licensing Sub-Committee except Policy issues which are reserved to Council by the Act. The delegated functions are exercised in accordance with this table:

Matter to be dealt Licensing Sub-Committee Officers with

Application for If a representation is made If no representation is made personal licence

Application for All cases personal licence with unspent convictions

Application for If a representation is made If no representation is made premises licence/club premises certificate

Application for If a representation is made If no representation is made provisional statement

Application to vary If a police representation All other cases designated personal licence holder

Request to be All cases removed as a designated personal licence holder

Application for If a police representation All other cases transfer of premises licence

Application for Interim If police representation All other cases Authorities

Application to review All cases premises licence/club premises certificate

Decision on whether All cases a complaint is irrelevant, frivolous, vexatious etc

37 Decision to object when local All cases authority is a consultee and not the lead authority

Decision to object when local All cases authority is a consultee and not the lead authority

Determination of an objection All cases to a temporary event notice

Determination of an If police objection All other cases application to vary premises licence at community premises to include alternative licence condition

Decision whether to consult All cases other responsible authorities on minor variation application

Determination of application All cases for minor variation

Application for review by All cases Licensing Authority

38 APPENDIX C – STATUTORY QUALIFYING CONDITIONS FOR CLUBS

The following qualifying conditions for clubs are extracted from the Licensing Act 2003.

62 The general conditions (1) The general conditions which a club must satisfy if it is to be a qualifying club in relation to a qualifying club activity are the following.

(2) Condition 1 is that under the rules of the club persons may not — (a) be admitted to membership, or (b) be admitted, as candidates for membership, to any of the privileges of membership, without an interval of at least two days between their nomination or application for membership and their admission.

(3) Condition 2 is that under the rules of the club persons becoming members without prior nomination or application may not be admitted to the privileges of membership without an interval of at least two days between their becoming members and their admission.

(4) Condition 3 is that the club is established and conducted in good faith as a club (see section 63).

(5) Condition 4 is that the club has at least 25 members.

(6) Condition 5 is that alcohol is not supplied, or intended to be supplied, to members on the premises otherwise than by or on behalf of the club.

63 Determining whether a club is established and conducted in good faith (1) In determining for the purposes of condition 3 in subsection (4) of section 62 whether a club is established and conducted in good faith as a club, the matters to be taken into account are those specified in subsection (2).

(2) Those matters are — (a) any arrangements restricting the club’s freedom of purchase of alcohol; (b) any provision in the rules, or arrangements, under which — (i) money or property of the club, or (ii) any gain arising from the carrying on of the club, is or may be applied otherwise than for the benefit of the club as a whole or for charitable, benevolent or political purposes; (c) the arrangements for giving members information about the finances of the club; (d) the books of account and other records kept to ensure the accuracy of that information; (e) the nature of the premises occupied by the club.

(3) If a licensing authority decides for any purpose of this Act that a club does not satisfy condition 3 in subsection (4) of section 62, the authority must give the club notice of the decision and of the reasons for it.

64 The additional conditions for the supply of alcohol (1) The additional conditions which a club must satisfy if it is to be a qualifying club in relation to the supply of alcohol to members or guests are the following.

(2) Additional condition 1 is that (so far as not managed by the club in general meeting or otherwise by the general body of members) the purchase of alcohol for the club, and the supply of alcohol by the club, are managed by a committee whose members:

39 (a) are members of the club; (b) have attained the age of 18 years; and (c) are elected by the members of the club.

This subsection is subject to section 65 (which makes special provision for industrial and provident societies, friendly societies etc.).

(3) Additional condition 2 is that no arrangements are, or are intended to be, made for any person to receive at the expense of the club any commission, percentage or similar payment on, or with reference to, purchases of alcohol by the club.

(4) Additional condition 3 is that no arrangements are, or are intended to be, made for any person directly or indirectly to derive any pecuniary benefit from the supply of alcohol by or on behalf of the club to members or guests, apart from — (a) any benefit accruing to the club as a whole, or (b) any benefit which a person derives indirectly by reason of the supply giving rise or contributing to a general gain from the carrying on of the club.

65 Industrial and provident societies, friendly societies etc. (1) Subsection (2) applies in relation to any club which is — (a) a registered society, within the meaning of the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 1965 (c. 12)(see section 74(1) of that Act), (b) a registered society, within the meaning of the Friendly Societies Act 1974 (c. 46) (see section 111(1) of that Act), or (c) a registered friendly society, within the meaning of the Friendly Societies Act 1992 (c. 40) (see section 116 of that Act).

(2) Any such club is to be taken for the purposes of this Act to satisfy additional condition 1 in subsection (2) of section 64 if and to the extent that: (a) the purchase of alcohol for the club, and (b) the supply of alcohol by the club, are under the control of the members or of a committee appointed by the members.

(3) References in this Act, other than this section, to — (a) subsection (2) of section 64, or (b) additional condition 1 in that subsection, are references to it as read with subsection (1) of this section.

(4) Subject to subsection (5), this Act applies in relation to an incorporated friendly society as it applies in relation to a club, and accordingly — (a) the premises of the society are to be treated as the premises of a club, (b) the members of the society are to be treated as the members of the club, and (c) anything done by or on behalf of the society is to be treated as done by or on behalf of the club.

(5) In determining for the purposes of section 61 whether an incorporated friendly society is a qualifying club in relation to a qualifying club activity, the society is to be taken to satisfy the following conditions — (a) condition 3 in subsection (4) of section 62, (b) condition 5 in subsection (6) of that section, (c) the additional conditions in section 64.

(6) In this section “incorporated friendly society” has the same meaning as in the Friendly Societies Act 1992 (see section 116 of that Act).

40 66 Miners’ welfare institutes (1) Subject to subsection (2), this Act applies to a relevant miners’ welfare institute as it applies to a club, and accordingly — (a) the premises of the institute are to be treated as the premises of a club, (b) the persons enrolled as members of the institute are to be treated as the members of the club, and (c) anything done by or on behalf of the trustees or managers in carrying on the institute is to be treated as done by or on behalf of the club.

(2) In determining for the purposes of section 61 whether a relevant miners’ welfare institute is a qualifying club in relation to a qualifying club activity, the institute is to be taken to satisfy the following conditions — (a) condition 3 in subsection (4) of section 62, (b) condition 4 in subsection (5) of that section, (c) condition 5 in subsection (6) of that section, (d) the additional conditions in section 64.

(3) For the purposes of this section — (a) “miners’ welfare institute” means an association organised for the social well-being and recreation of persons employed in or about coal mines (or of such persons in particular), and (b) a miners’ welfare institute is “relevant” if it satisfies one of the following conditions.

(4) The first condition is that — (a) the institute is managed by a committee or board, and (b) at least two thirds of the committee or board consists — (i) partly of persons appointed or nominated, or appointed or elected from among persons nominated, by one or more licensed operators within the meaning of the Coal Industry Act 1994 (c. 21), and (ii) partly of persons appointed or nominated, or appointed or elected from among persons nominated, by one or more organisations representing persons employed in or about coal mines.

(5) The second condition is that — (a) the institute is managed by a committee or board, but (b) the making of — (i) an appointment or nomination falling within subsection (4)(b)(i), or (ii) an appointment or nomination falling within subsection (4)(b)(ii), is not practicable or would not be appropriate, and (c) at least two thirds of the committee or board consists — (i) partly of persons employed, or formerly employed, in or about coal mines, and (ii) partly of persons appointed by the Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation or a body or person to which the functions of that Organisation have been transferred under section 12(3) of the Miners’ Welfare Act 1952 (c. 23).

(6) The third condition is that the premises of the institute are held on trusts to which section 2 of the Recreational Charities Act 1958 (c. 17) applies.

41 APPENDIX D – THE HYPNOTISM ACT 1952

Conditions

1. The artiste shall be competent in the inducement of, and reversal of, a state of hypnosis.

2. No exhibition, demonstration, or performance of hypnotism shall involve any person under the age of 18 years.

3. The exhibition, demonstration or performance of hypnotism shall not, either directly or indirectly, induce, suggest to, or direct any person to behave in a manner which is either -

a) obscene, indecent, or offensive, and/or b) aggressive, and/or c) demeaning to an extent which would be unacceptable to the ordinary common person.

4. Any form of induced sleep or trance, under which any person is placed in the course of the exhibition, demonstration, or performance of hypnotism, shall be fully reversed immediately after that person’s part in the exhibition, demonstration, or performance is concluded.

5. These Conditions form part of the authorisation, and shall be monitored/enforced by a responsible member of the management of the premises.

6. The hypnotist must produce satisfactory evidence of current Public Liability Insurance cover, (to a minimum level of £1,000,000), to the management of the venue prior to the performance taking place.

Subject: Update on Cities and Devolution Bill Status: For Publication

Report to: Cabinet Date: 14th January 2016 Council 20th January 2016

Report of: Head of Legal & Governance Reform Author: David Wilcock

Author Email: [email protected] Tel: 01706 924710

1 Purpose of the report

1.1 To update Members on the status of the Cities and Devolution Bill and the next steps to implementation.

2 Recommendations

2.1 That the Cabinet and the Council note the progress of the Cities and Devolution Bill and next steps required for implementation

2.2 That the Cabinet delegate authority to the Chief Executive in consultation with the Leader of the Council to consent to the terms of the Order required to establish the role of Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) elected Mayor and to provide for the Mayor to exercise the functions of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) in relation to the Greater Manchester Police area.

2.3 That the Council note that the Chief Executive will have exercised emergency powers on behalf of the Council to confirm the consent of the Council by 15th January 2015 to ensure passage of the Bill through Parliamentary timetable.

2.4 That the Council and the Cabinet confirm delegation to the Chief Executive in consultation with the Leader of the Council the authority to consent to the terms of orders required to enable GMCA to carry out health related functions from April 2016.

3 Background

3,1 The Cities and Devolution Bill went through the report stage in the House of Commons on 7th December. The Bill is going back into the House of Lords on 12th January and it is anticipated that it will receive Royal Assent shortly after.

3.2 The Bill was discussed extensively at Committee and Report stages in the House of Commons and amended to take into account Government proposals and respond to amendments made to the Bill in the House of Lords.

4 Cities and Devolution Bill

4.1 The Bill as currently drafted is enabling legislation and the detail of the additional powers to be provided to the Elected Mayor and the GMCA will be set out in Orders confirmed by Parliament through the affirmative process and any subsequent secondary legislation that may be required. The Bill in its current form does therefore meet the requirements of the Greater Manchester (GM) devolution deals.

5 Next steps

5.1 First Order

5.1.1 Discussions have taken place with the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) on the timetable for implementation of the Orders required. The first Order is that to create the GM Mayor role, and to provide for the Mayor to exercise the functions of the PCC for the Greater Manchester police area. It also provides for the election of the Mayor in May 2017 for an initial three year term and removes the requirement for a GM PCC election in May 2016.

5.1.2 It is anticipated that the Order will be laid immediately after Royal Assent to meet the timetable required to stop the PCC election. The Order requires the consent of GMCA and the 10 constituent Councils.

5.2 Orders required for April 2016

5.2.1 As members are aware under the devolution deals certain powers will be exercisable by the Mayor alone, some Mayoral decisions require the approval of GMCA members and other powers will be exercisable by the GMCA as a body.

5.2.2 GMCA will require the ability to exercise health related functions from April 2016 to enable it to play a full part in health and social care devolution. It is proposed that this will be by way of providing for the GMCA to have the function that all local authorities have under the Health and Social Care Act 2012 to take appropriate steps to improve the health of people who live in their area.

5.2.3 Further work is taking place on other additional powers required to implement devolution from April 2016.

5.3 Full implementation

5.3.1 The totality of powers to be granted to the GMCA and Elected Mayor will need to be finalised by November 2016. This process will begin in March 2016 with a 3 month period for drafting, GMCA engagement and Ministerial approval. It is envisaged that the orders will then be laid before Parliament in May/June 2016. There will be a combination of Orders as there are a number of devolution deals across the country. It is likely that there will be one Order with general applicability for all Combined Authorities and specific bespoke Orders covering those issues which are not generic to all authorities.

5.3.2 Detailed work is now commencing on the precise requirements of GMCA in relation to those orders which covers financial functions, including borrowing powers; PCC and Fire authority functions; functions to enable the implementation of the GM Spatial Development Strategy; and Housing and development functions.

5.3.3 Further reports will be brought back to the Council and Cabinet, as appropriate, as this work develops.

Alternatives considered Not applicable. 4 Financial Implications

4.1 None applicable

5 Legal Implications

5.1 The matters contained within the body of the report address legal implications associated with this report.

6 Personnel Implications

6.1 None applicable.

7 Corporate Priorities

7.1 None applicable.

8. Risk Assessment Implications

8.1 There are no specific risk issues for Members to consider arising from this report.

9. Equalities Impacts

9.1 Workforce Equality Impacts Assessment

There are no significant workforce equality issues arising from this report.

9.2 Equality/Community Impact Assessments

There are no significant equality/community issues arising from this report.

There are no background papers to this report.

Subject: Appointments to serve on the Board of Status: For Publication Rochdale Development Agency

Report to: Council Date: Tuesday, 20th January 2016

Report of: Head of Legal & Governance Reform Author: Elizabeth Cunningham Doyle

Author Email: Tel: 01706 924712 [email protected]

1 Purpose of the report

1.1 Council is requested to appoint representatives to serve on the Board of the Rochdale Development Agency.

2 Recommendations

It is recommended that the Council: 2.1 Appoints Councillors Williams and Dearnley and Steve Rumbelow to represent the Council on the Board of the Rochdale Development Agency, as Directors, as set out in paragraph 3.3 below. 2.2 Notes that the Council will become the sole member of the company following the adoption of the new Articles of Association by the company at its meeting on 27th January 2016.

3 Background

3.1 The Cabinet, at the meeting on 2nd July 2015, received a report dealing with future arrangements for the Rochdale Development Agency (RDA). The Chief Executive of the Council was given delegated authority to make decisions in relation to the detailed arrangements for the RDA operating models following consultation with the Leader of the Council and the Deputy Leader/Cabinet Member for Business, Skills and Employment.

3.2 Further consideration was given to the arrangements for the RDA and a Due Diligence report was carried out to identify the assets and liabilities of the current company which will transfer to the Council when it becomes the sole member of the company.

3.3 Having considered all of the issues involved the Chief Executive, in exercise of the delegation given above, has authorised that the Council should become the sole member/owner of the RDA company. This change will be effected at meetings of the RDA due to be held on 27th January 2016. At those meetings the company will also adopt new Articles of Association which will provide that the Council shall be entitled to appoint, replace or remove up to three Directors from time to time by notice in writing to the company.

3.4 Council is therefore asked to determine the appointment of the Council’s directors and note that an appointee can include an Officer of the Council. 3.5 It is recommended that Councillor Peter Williams, Councillor Ashley Dearnley, and the Council’s Chief Executive, Steve Rumbelow are appointed as Directors to the Board of the Rochdale Development Agency for a period of three years from the acceptance by the company of the Council's appointments.

Alternatives considered Not applicable.

4 Financial Implications

4.1 None applicable.

5 Legal Implications

5.1 The matters contained within this report are consistent with relevant legislative requirements and the Council’s Constitution.

6 Personnel Implications

6.1 None applicable.

7 Corporate Priorities

7.1 None applicable.

8. Risk Assessment Implications

8.1 There are no specific risk issues for Members to consider arising from this report.

9. Equalities Impacts

9.1 Workforce Equality Impacts Assessment

There are no significant workforce equality issues arising from this report.

9.2 Equality/Community Impact Assessments

There are no significant equality/community issues arising from this report.

There are no background papers to this report.

Subject: Appointment of Independent Persons Status: For Publication

Report to: Council Date: 20 January 2016

Report of: Monitoring Officer Author: David Wilcock

Author Email: [email protected] Tel: 01706 924710

1 Purpose of the report

1.1 To appoint Independent Persons.

2 Recommendations

2.1 That the current Independent Persons, Mr Andrew Underdown and Mrs Ann Taylor, are reappointed until the Council meeting in October 2018 or next convenient meeting.

Reason for recommendation

2.2 It is recommended that Mr Underdown and Mrs Taylor are re-appointed in order to ensure stability and retain the valuable experience accumulated to date.

3 Purpose of the report

3.1 The Localism Act 2011 introduced the role of Independent Person to provide advice and guidance to the Monitoring Officer and Members who are the subject of a Standards allegation. Following a recruitment process, it was agreed at the full Council meeting held on 25th July 2012 that Mr Andrew Underdown and Mrs Ann Taylor would be appointed as the Independent Persons for a period of three years.

3.2 In accordance with the Localism Act 2011 the Council must appoint at least one Independent Person, who must be consulted before making a decision on a Member conduct complaint that has been investigated. The Council may also consult with that person when deciding whether to accept or reject a new complaint when it is received. An Independent Person will also be available for consultation by the Member who is the subject of the complaint.

3.3 Due to the potential for conflict of interests within the role (e.g. where an Independent Person is a friend or relative of a complainant) or for practical reasons (e.g. where an Independent Person is on holiday) it is once again recommended Council appoints 2 Independent Persons.

3.4 The Independent Persons act as non-voting co-opted Members of the Audit and Governance Committee in respect of elected Member conduct issues.

3.5 The current Independent Persons are experienced in the role they perform and have indicated their willingness to continue in the role. Alternatives considered

3.6 To not reappoint and/or recruit to the position of Independent Person.

3.7 The option of ‘Do nothing’ does not apply in this instance as the position of Independent Person is a statutory position which the Council is required to have.

4 Financial Implications

4.1 On 21st July 2012 Council agreed that an annual allowance of £500 is agreed for remuneration of the independent person(s). There are no further financial implications arising from this report.

5 Legal Implications

5.1 These are outlined within the Report.

6 Personnel Implications

6.1 There are no Human Resource implications arising from this report.

7 Corporate Priorities

7.1 There are no specific Corporate Priorities arising from this report.

8 Risk Assessment Implications

8.1 There are no specific risk issues for members to consider arising from this report.

9. Equalities Impacts

9.1 Workforce Equality Impacts Assessment N/A

9.2 Equality/Community Impact Assessments N/A

Subject: Nomination of Deputy Mayor Status: For Publication 2016/2017

Report to: Council Date: Wednesday, 20th January 2016

Report of: Head of Legal and Governance Author: Mark Hardman Reform Tel: Tel: 01706 924704 Author Email: [email protected]

1 Purpose of the report

1.1 To invite Council to consider a nomination to the position of Deputy Mayor for the 2016/2017 Municipal Year.

2 Recommendations

2.1 The Council agree a nomination for the office of Deputy Mayor for 2016/2017.

3 Background

3.1 The formula as agreed by Council for the nomination to the position of Deputy Mayor is as follows: "After every election (i.e. May each year or in the fourth year the date of the County Council Elections) one point be allocated to every Member of the Council and the Party having the highest number of points nominates the Deputy Mayor for the next Municipal Year, i.e. twelve months hence. After the next election, further points be credited according to the representation, but points equal to the total number of Members of Council, i.e. 60 be deducted from the total of the Party which last nominated the Deputy Mayor. This procedure of crediting and debiting points be continued after each election to maintain a running total".

3.2 The Finance Committee agreed on 17th September 1981 that a point would be awarded to the successful Party at a by-election where the seat was vacant at the May elections or in the fourth year the date of the County Council elections. The Regulatory Committee on 5th March 2002 decided that in the event of a tie in the numbers of points allocated to the groups under the procedure, the group with the highest number of seats of the Council will nominate the Deputy Mayor.

3.3 The present position with regard to the allocation of points is as follows:

Event Conser- Labour Liberal Rochdale vative Democrat First

Total c/f to 2011/12 nomination (Cons) 15 -33 6

May 2011 elections 17 31 12 Deputy Mayor: Cllr James Gartside -60 Total c/f to 2012/13 nomination (LD) -28 -2 18 May 2012 elections 13 42 5 Deputy Mayor: Cllr Rush -60 Total c/f to 2013/14 nomination (Lab) -15 40 -37

May 2013 – no election 12 42 5 Deputy Mayor: Cllr Wardle -60 Total c/f to 2014/15 nomination (Lab) -3 22 -32

May 2014 elections 11 46 1 2 Deputy Mayor: Cllr Surinder Biant -60 Total c/f to 2015/16 nomination (Lab) 8 8 -31 2

May 2015 elections 10 47 2 1 Deputy Mayor: Councillor Dutton -60 Total c/f to 2016/17 nomination (Cons) 18 -5 -29 3

3.3 Following the procedure and calculation as outlined above, the Conservative Group is entitled to nominate the Deputy Mayor for 2016/17.

3.4 The Group Leaders have been consulted on the above.

3.5 The Leader of the Conservative Group has forwarded the name of Councillor Ian Duckworth as the Conservative Group nomination.

Alternatives considered None. This report applies a formula as agreed by the Council.

4 Financial Implications

4.1 None.

5 Legal Implications

5.1 None

6 Personnel Implications

6.1 None

7. Equalities Impacts

7.1 There are no equality/community issues arising from this report.

There are no background papers to this report ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE LEADER OF THE COUNCIL/LEAD MEMBER FOR REGENERATION TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20TH JANUARY 2016

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.

Grant Settlement

On 17th December the Provisional Settlement for 2016/17 was announced.

Based on the assumptions and figures used by Government Rochdale Council received the highest percentage reduction in “Core Spending Power” per dwelling (4.47%) than any other Council in Greater Manchester, and received the 7th highest reduction across all Local Authorities.

Had the reduction in “Core Spending Power” for Rochdale been at the GM average this would have given Rochdale an additional £1.75m spending power had the reduction been at the all England average this would have meant an additional £2.86m in spending power2016/17 alone,

The Core Spending Power Calculation assumes that Council’s will increase Council Tax by 1.75% per annum plus the 2 per cent for Adult Care. The Freeze Grant previously offered to Councils who do not increase their Council Tax has gone from 2016/17 – this is a complete shift in the position around “expectation” of increase in Council Tax – in previous settlements in recent years Central Government have been looking to support Councils with a 0 per cent increase however within this latest settlement the figures quoted are based on assumptions that Council’s will increase Council Tax.

The approach to providing increased funding through the Better Care Fund is welcomed as is the attempt to take account of the fact that Local Authorities with a low Council Tax Base will need to have a greater share of the overall pot – however of the overall £1.5bn announced from 2017/18 - £800k will come from proposed changes to New Homes Bonus – this element if progressed following further consultation, will represent a cut to funding for Local Authorities.

To date the Council has approved £143 m of savings since 2010/11 as a consequence of increase in demand, increase costs and reductions in funding and has a further £37m to find in 2016/17 and 2017/18. In total this represents over £1,900 per household up to and including 2017/18.

Boxing Day Flooding

I wish to start my report by mentioning the Boxing day floods and recognising the devastation this has caused across our Borough. There has been significant damage to residential properties and businesses and people affected continue to come to terms with losing their possessions and in some instances have had to move out of their homes. To date we have identified up to 500 homes and 125 businesses directly affected by flooding. In addition, many thousands of homes and businesses were affected by loss of power and water.

Given the scale of flooding and the time of year it happened, the response from the Council and local people has been tremendous. Many hundreds of volunteers came forward to help those affected in their local communities and recovery work started almost immediately the water levels reduced. Houses were cleared and rest centres opened to help those in most need. This showed the community spirit which exists in our Borough and people stepped up to the challenge to help their neighbours.

The Council has also responded quickly to provide help and support to residents affected by the flooding. The Council has made hundreds of payments to households and businesses affected by the flooding and is looking to see how we can provide further financial assistance to those families and businesses who have been worst affected.

I want to thank the Council and Partner staff on behalf of all members of Council. The help and assistance they have all provided to the hundreds of families affected by the horror of having their home wrecked by the floods has been truly outstanding.

I have received countless messages from victims, relatives and members of the public thanking council staff for their sterling work.

The work goes on to help those who need the vital assistance of our public services. However, I wanted to express my profound gratitude to each and every member of the council team who have done what we do best - selflessly serving the public. They have made a huge impact on the lives of hundreds of people.

 Rochdale Town Centre Business Support/Business Rates

Up to 125 businesses have been identified that had suffered from flood water in their premises with almost all being visited. There will be a continued effort to visit the remaining businesses that are currently not open.

A range of practical support from the Council in terms of the provision of cleaning materials, skips and sweepers, disposal of contaminated goods and food hygiene support have been provided to the worse affected areas.

The Council has made a £500 payment to eligible businesses, similar to the payments made to affected householders. As at Friday 8th January 73 payments have been made, alongside a month’s business rate relief. If any eligible business is unable to trade longer than a month, applications can be made to extend this relief.

We are aware that a few businesses in Rochdale Town Centre will not be open for several months, however all the others are trading and I would ask that every effort is made for residents and businesses to support each other by buying locally to help speed up the recovery.

The council is also working with other Greater Manchester authorities and the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) to provide additional financial support to those that have been most severely affected by flooding.

 The River Reopening helped reduce the impact of the floods

The Reopening the Roch project is designed to reduce the impact and duration of flooding in the Town Centre by diverting flood water back into the river channel as soon as practicable. The recent floods were caused by exceptional levels of rainfall, falling on to already saturated moors and the amount of water that came down the Roch to the Town Centre was more than the entrance to the culvert at Lviv Bridge could cope with. The river water flowed over the bridge, across the town centre towards the Butts and went back into the river channel. There is no doubt that without the re-opening the water would have spread further damaging the Town Hall and that the town centre would have been flooded for longer.

Rochdale Town Centre

Rochdale Town Centre continues to be a major priority for the Council. Importantly our new flagship shopping and leisure development, Town Centre East, reached a major milestone with two of the biggest names on the British high street signing up to the scheme. Over the course of last year the majority of the proposed development site has been assembled and the temporary car park and open-air market have proved popular, pending the new development coming forward.

Public investment is continuing with the river re-opening scheme taking shape and Town Hall restoration project progressing with the submission of a Heritage Lottery Bid. The flow of new private sector investments into the town continues with a number taking advantage of the business rates support.

The TC business rates scheme is continuing to be a success with more vacancies filled and further interest in the scheme. The BBQ restaurant, Cockadoodlemoo, opened in November and Shoemaster is trading well in the old chip shop on Yorkshire Street.

The scheme has been an instant success since its formal launch on 1 April 2015 and is already proving to be a huge boost to our high street and major step forward in reviving our town centre. 10 properties have been awarded grants, making a total of 15 vacant properties that have been let.

A marketing strategy has resulted in positive press coverage from national and trade press and on TV. A positive feature on the scheme also appeared in the Telegraph in late September and BBC Radio 5 Live. This has generated enquiries from a number of Councils including Halton, Denbigh, New Forest and Kirklees.

 Town Centre East (Genr8)

M&S and Next have completed agreements for new stores in the development and more announcements are due imminently. It is hoped these future announcements will boost the evening economy alongside the family orientated restaurants.

M&S, which has been trading successfully in Rochdale since 1933, will open an even bigger and better store in the new development, which, at 50,000 sq ft, will have more than double its current retail sales floor space. It will sell a greater range of homeware, food and clothing and will also have a café.

Next, the largest clothes retailer by sales in the UK, will open a 22,000 sq ft shop in the new scheme over two floors, selling clothing, homeware and gifts.

This is really momentous and the start of the re-birth of Rochdale town centre. It is the result of a lot of people working incredibly hard to make it happen and I hope it will at last convince people that Rochdale is serious when it says ‘we are on the up’. There is already a strong retail district in Rochdale but the Town Centre East development means we are going to have a completely new offer with lots of new big name shops that will make it bigger and better.

Genr8 is continuing to progress the design and layout of the preferred scheme and is working towards the submission of a detailed planning application in mid-2016.

 Demolitions

It is proposed to tender the demolition of Telegraph House, when legal agreements have been exchanged for the remaining tenants to be relocated, probably in late spring. Once demolished, this will complete the clearance programme needed to make way for the Town Centre East retail & leisure development.

 Rochdale Town Hall

A stage 1 application to Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) has been submitted for the “Restoration & Revival” of the Town Hall and we expect to hear back in April. The bid is based on the feedback from the consultation exercise in summer 2015 and is a 2 stage process. The development stage will be part funded by HLF will allow the plans to be worked up in detail and more ways that the community can get involved in the conservation activity will be undertaken. The funding is hugely oversubscribed but it is hoped that the architectural significance of the Town Hall will give us a good chance.

Due to the nature and complexity the Town Hall as a Grade I listed building, the HLF process requires the plans to be scrutinised by Historic England and HLF in detail, so we expect to submit our 2nd stage bid in 2017 with the works completed in time for the 150th anniversary of its opening in 2022.

Meanwhile, improvement works are under way to support the “core” events & hospitality business including improvements to the Council Chamber that now allow it to be let out when not in use by the Council. Works to the bistro are being undertaken in order to improve the customer experience and boost the income stream.

 River reopening project

The project to reopen the river is progressing well. Demolition has been completed and the stonemasons have started repairs to the river walls and the repair and restoration of the stonework on the bridge. Part of the newly paved areas on the Butts has opened with the new paving and railings being installed around the rest of the site over the coming months. Completion is due in April.

 Baillie Street public realm improvements

The proposals for Baillie Street are to improve the surfacing and install Yorkstone paving to match that used around the river re-opening to enhance the conservation area. The work is expected to start in Spring 2016.

 Market

The temporary outdoor market on the former Black Box site was established in January 2015. In the longer term, it is proposed to locate the outside market elsewhere, possibly on The Butts, adjoining the river re-opening scheme. A dedicated Project Team has recently been established to take this project forward and to explore options and opportunities for this location. A feasibility study is currently being undertaken with Quarterbridge Ltd, a market specialist who has worked UK wide and particularly on other North West markets, to evaluate the business case for the market and consider options for an indoor market hall.

Rochdale Railway Station

Highway works to implement a new one way system to the south of the station with drop off facilities, new kerbing, signage and lighting will be installed to improve safety for pedestrians including the disabled and visually impaired. Following this work, it is hoped to complete a new vehicular link to the area from Oldham Road thus reducing further traffic movements to the Maclure Road area.

Work has also commenced at the station to provide an additional platform which should be operational before the end of 2016. This platform will support the provision of an additional hourly service between Rochdale and Manchester as well as provide direct train services from Rochdale to other parts of the North West. The completion of the Ordsall chord rail link will provide a direct rail link to Manchester airport. Following the completion of the subway reopening scheme last year, we are continuing to work with the operator to secure further improvements to be made to enhance the entrance and passenger facilities at the railway station.

Maclure Road Fire Station

The Fire Service Museum, which operates from accommodation to the rear and within the yard of the old fire station, recently submitted a bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund to acquire and refurbish the former fire station building into an enhanced museum attraction with hospitality and conferencing facilities. We have recently been informed that this bid was unsuccessful. The Council is liaising with the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Museum and the Fire and Rescue Service to explore options which will allow for a revised bid to be submitted.. This would be a unique attraction within Greater Manchester and in this location attract visitors to the area and complement other regeneration around the railway station.

Middleton Town Centre

The Heritage Lottery funded Edgar Wood & Middleton Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) has seen the approval of two significant repair and restoration grants for properties on Rochdale Road and Market Place in the last few months and restoration work has started on Redcroft, Edgar Wood’s own house on Rochdale Road. Further applications relating to both private and Council owned property will be presented to the THI Board in December. September’s Golden Cluster month, which was supported by the THI, was a great success attracting over 1,500 visits to Middleton’s four key heritage attractions. Capital Programme funded public realm works on Long Street, Market Place and Rochdale Road, began with the cleaning of existing ‘tegula’ paving in August and will see the laying of new locally sourced sandstone paving on Market Place and Long Street beginning later this month. The plan, which was agreed by Middleton Township in March, will see both new paving and recycling of existing paving, in addition to improved street furniture repairs to Jubilee Park’s boundary wall. Middleton Members have identified a number of other projects which meet the objectives of the Capital Programme allocation; Middleton Members will approve these projects on the basis of available funds as the core project progresses.

Combined, the THI and Capital Programme funded works represent an investment of in excess of £3,000,000 in the Middleton Town Centre conservation Area over the next twelve months.

Warwick Mill (“Red Warwick”)

Planning permission and listed building consent has been granted for the £50m redevelopment of Warwick Mill, which has been substantially vacant for a number of years. The developers, G - Suite, plan to convert the mill into a facility where Chinese companies, as well as those from emerging markets in Asia, can exhibit and sell their goods in the UK and European markets. This is a two way trading process as local businesses are being encouraged to work with G - Suite to exploit emerging markets in Asia.

Work will commence with the demolition of the adjoining London House office block in January 2016 with works starting on the conversion of the mill itself in March, with an expectation that the complex will be operational in late 2016/early 2017. The development is expected to create some 200 new jobs, and G - Suite is being encouraged to engage local contractors and labour through the Rochdale and Oldham Construction Network.

BUSINESS PARKS

 Kingsway Business Park

The profile of Kingsway Business Park in the regional market has increased significantly over the last 3 months, as a result of development activity on site and evidenced by a growing number of inward investment enquiries. Whilst there have been no new starts on site since my last report, a number of significant developments are under construction or are due to start in early 2016. Key activities since my last report to Council include:

 WCCTV are now operational from their new 12,000 sq ft manufacturing and development facility. WCCTV are one of the leading companies in the manufacture and supply of closed circuit and body worn security cameras and Kingsway is their Global Headquarters. Across the UK they employ around 50 people, of which 30 are based at Kingsway.

 The erection of the 15m high steelwork for the “Kingsway 216” warehouse and distribution building has significantly increased the visibility of Kingsway, both in terms of press coverage and in reality as this is right next to the M62. The target date for completion is summer 2016, and agents are confident that a tenant will be signed up by then for this 216,000 sq ft facility, construction of which is being funded by Standard Life. This could potentially generate around 100 new jobs for the Borough.

 Building work is due to start in early 2016 following the granting of planning permission for four medium sized units totalling around 200,000 sq ft at Plot K. This £18m project again demonstrates the renewed confidence in the market as this will also be built on a speculative basis.

 Construction is nearing completion on the first wave of 167 new homes and it is expected that works will transfer seamlessly over to the next wave of 68 houses, located between the current scheme and The Hornet pub. This ongoing development activity coupled with the level of investment enquiries demonstrates that Kingsway remains a location of strategic importance in the regional and national jobs market.

 Hareshill Business Park (Heywood)

Work has started on the 95,000 sq ft brand new employment scheme at Hareshill and should be completed in spring 2016. It is believed to be under offer but I have no further details yet.

 Heywood Distribution Park

Two new developments have commenced on this site – one is 145,000 sq ft and the other is 70,000 sq ft – and both are being built speculatively. This is further evidence of an increase in investment in the Borough. They should be complete by the middle of next year.

 Stakehill Industrial Estate

Activity at Stakehill Industrial Estate since my last report has focused primarily on property investment.

Company Shop, which takes surplus food from high street retailers and sells it on to key workers, has opened an 8,000 sq ft operation at Stakehill in previously vacant units. This has resulted in 50 new jobs and is their fourth operation across the north of England.

The 150,000 sq ft industrial unit which Aldi will be vacating in 2016 has been purchased by private sector investors Vengrove and Chenavari for just over £8m. The new owners have stated that they wish to upgrade the unit within the next 18 months and RDA will be contacted them early in 2016 to better understand their intentions.

The programme of environmental improvements undertaken during the summer has now completed and Commercial Estates Group have submitted the first planning application in their programme to comprehensively update signage, both of which are vital in improving the appearance and public perception of Stakehill.

Other Regeneration activity

 M62 J19/South Heywood Area Wide Improvement Programme

Work has continued to explore options for the alignment of a new access road from Junction 19 of the M62 to Manchester Road, Heywood utilising the Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s allocation of £6.8m for this new route. Site investigations were carried out in June and July and the design is currently being worked up by Highways in order to determine the most viable route.

 East Lancashire Railway

Land is being assembled around Castleton railway station for the purposes of an extension of the East Lancashire heritage rail line into Castleton. The relevant consents for the heritage railway to operate along the length of line from Heywood to Castleton are being negotiated with Network Rail. A land swap agreement to relocate a business onto Council owned land at Wood Street is being finalised. This will free up land around the station for additional park and ride facilities which can then be laid out later this year. It is now expected that a planning application involving the transfer of land for a temporary ELR platform will be submitted in the Spring of 2016.

 Milnrow

Work is progressing on a new ALDI store on Elizabethan Way which is expected to open during Spring 2016. The scheme will secure local highway and public realm benefits, together with additional local employment. The scheme will also include for the retention of an existing business within refurbished accommodation on the site.  Littleborough

Planning permission has recently been granted for a food store on the edge of Littleborough town centre. This scheme will secure local highway and employment benefits together with a developer contribution towards improvements within Littleborough town centre. The approved development includes for additional commercial space within the site. The construction of this development is linked to the relocation within the Borough of the existing employer on the site which is to relocate locally to support their business growth. Flooding - Around 30 businesses in Littleborough have been affected by the floods, with 6 in the town centre among those worse affected. We are aware that 3 businesses have not yet been able to reopen, with 2 of these being restaurants. All businesses have been visited by staff from the RDA and offered support. Most of the businesses that have been able to open are still not operating at full capacity, but are able to fulfil orders. All have insurance but are experiencing differing responses regarding flood cover. We have been working with the Business Growth Hub to ensure we have sufficient advisor support, although at this stage there are no businesses requesting support.

 Sustainability/Low Carbon

The proposed 5MW (Mega Watt) solar farm at Chamber House Farm cannot now be progressed due to changes in subsidy regime announced by the government recently. However, this project may still be financially viable in the future as the cost of equipment for solar farms continues come down and cost of energy goes up. Once we are confident that financial return from this project is in line with our investment policy, we will bring forward options to Members to progress this project.

Rochdale Council is at the forefront of a Greater Manchester programme of securing funding to install energy saving measures in both schools and public buildings. This will strengthen the council’s reputation as a leading authority in the transition to a low-carbon economy, saving public money whilst also reducing our environmental impact.

Communications

The Council’s communications team is continuing to secure positive local and national coverage for the council, and our ambitions for the borough are becoming known across the region.

The Council’s successful business rates sale, the re-opening of the River Roch in Rochdale town centre, and the £50million re-development of Warwick Mill in Middleton that the council helped to secure are among the projects that have been mentioned in national publications. This, I’m sure members will agree, is helping us to show the world that we are serious when we say that we want our borough to be a regional powerhouse and one of the key players in the emerging Northern Powerhouse story.

The communications team helped to secure record ticket sales, significant positive media coverage and income of more than £48,000 for this year’s Literature and Ideas Festival, which was reported in the BBC Asian Network, That’s Manchester TV, BBC Radio Manchester and the Manchester Evening News, as well as the Rochdale Observer and Rochdale Online.

The Council is also now promoting next year’s Rochdale Half Marathon, 10K and Fun Run and the 2016 Rochdale Digital Festival – both excellent recent additions to the annual roster of events the council holds. A school campaign is currently being developed to encourage households to recycle. Still in the development stage, the campaign is anticipated to launch in early 2016 and encourage households to pledge to recycle more. The council is also working to replace the existing VisitRochdale website with a new and improved site. This will help showcase the best of our borough, as well as delivering an improved customer experience.

Future Plans

Rochdale Council and its partners are continuing to pursue business opportunities that will bring new jobs to the borough, taking advantage of the major infrastructure and investment that has taken place across the borough. We continue to work closely with the rest of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to ensure the borough is able to plan for, contribute and benefit from the continued economic growth of the Greater Manchester sub region, and to examine the scope to benefit from further investment in infrastructure provision such as the Northern Hub rail proposals, the upgrading of the M62 and planned new South Heywood Link Road.

An example of this will be through the preparation of the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework. This will be a new planning document for Greater Manchester which will set out the scale and broad distribution of development which will be needed over the next 20 years to accommodate the scale of economic growth ambitions for the conurbation as set out in the Greater Manchester Strategy. The Council is providing evidence to support AGMA in this work ensuring the needs and opportunities of the Borough are fully represented.

AGMA has recently undertaken a consultation on the Vision and Growth options for the GM Spatial Framework to identify how much growth and development needs to be planned for across Greater Manchester over that time period. This consultation has included a Greater Manchester wide ‘call for sites’ in order that we fully understand our land availability and can make as informed decisions as are possible on how we can sustainably plan for the growth of Greater Manchester.

We will be reviewing the consultation responses in so far as they affect our land use planning and regeneration strategies to ensure we maximise the economic benefits for our Borough of this shared working. The next stage in the preparation of the Spatial Framework will be to publish a draft plan in late 2016. Further information will be presented to Members on this work later this year. GMCA submitted a range of ‘asks’ to the Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR) to further extend devolution. It is expected that more detailed discussions will be held with officials over the next few weeks.

GM Leaders along with the Interim Mayor have over the last few weeks been looking at Leadership capacity and portfolio arrangements within GMCA. The portfolio responsibilities for 2015/16 have been agreed and in addition it has been agreed to look at increasing and strengthening portfolio capacity by appointing deputy portfolio lead members.

A process is already underway to provide this additional support to portfolio leads, the first stage of which was to invite Expressions of Interest (EoI). It is hoped to conclude this process around the end of this month.

Councillor Richard Farnell Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Regeneration

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 Portfolio. ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR BUSINESS, SKILLS AND EMPLOYMENT TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20th JANUARY 2016

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 Support and Investment

Significant business investment will come to Middleton following planning approval for the £50m redevelopment of Warwick Mill. The development will provide 200,000 sq ft of business space with restaurants and cafes and create more than 200 new jobs. I was involved in the negotiations with the Hong Kong-based property development group G-Suite and am very pleased with the economic potential that this development beings to the centre of Middleton and for the borough.

A range of support continues to be offered to local businesses to contribute to their growth and job retention and creation in the borough. Engagement with local, growing companies is vital to ensure they get the support they need. The Business Growth Advisor post that the Council part-funds with the GM Business Growth Hub is an important part of this service. Notable successes this quarter have been the increase export sales by £17m, and £2.2m resource efficiency savings achieved by businesses following advice given. On both of these measures, Rochdale was the best performing local authority in Greater Manchester.

The level of enquiries has continued to grow, partly reflecting broader market conditions but also our pro-active approach to attracting new investment and fostering the growth potential of local firms. In the period to 4th December, the RDA received 180 property enquiries, of which 82 were from businesses outside the borough, and 38 related to Kingsway. The borough continues to attract new companies with 24 businesses either relocating or expanding during the last 6 months. This will lead to the creation of over 100 jobs. A further 50 new jobs were created when The Company Shop located to Stakehill Industrial Estate. The Council’s Employment Links team supported the recruitment process for these jobs. The Council has been able to assist 3 businesses moving into the borough without this support, the relocations would not have been possible. The businesses represent the engineering, medical products sectors and a head office function. The Council also helped a local digital company expand into a prominent building which had been vacant for some time.

Businesses looking to use technology to boost their company’s fortunes have competed for money from a Rochdale Borough Council fund aimed at helping local firms. The new ‘get digital’ fund was available for Rochdale-based SMEs (small to medium enterprises) who have big plans to use technology to boost their business, but need a little financial help to make it happen. Four shortlisted firms were asked to make a Dragon’s Den-style pitch and their proposals are being refined prior to making the awards.

Despite offering a reduced service due to delays in the new European Funding programme for business start-up. Blue Orchid have supported 14 new businesses to start trading in the borough since April this is in addition to staging workshops and one to one support to people thinking of starting a new business and to new businesses looking to grow. Small Business Saturday on the 5th December saw a series of events across the townships including a well-attended craft fair and business networking event in the Flying Horse and Christmas window dressing competitions in Pennines and Middleton. Many small businesses offered special offers on the day.

The 5th Annual Borough business Awards took place in November, celebrating the successes of local firms. Over 300 business people attended the event.

Construction supply chain opportunities continue to be promoted to local businesses and this has included a £175m construction programme at Manchester University covering demolition, new build, refurbishment and landscaping.

Skills

The Council has been invited to submit a stage 2 bid to the Big Lottery Fund Reaching Communities programme. If successful the grant will fund a project which will train groups of people across the borough who are being excluded from making the most of the benefits of the internet because of lack of skills, confidence or access. Support have been given to voluntary groups to bid for lottery and other external funding for projects that aim to support young out of work residents in deprived areas to gain new skills and increase their employability.

Forty residents from Kirkholt have attended an IT and Work Club. Most have not engaged in any form of job search or skills activity before and have a wide range of social and economic issues they needed assistance with. Some have now moved into employment and others now have job search essentials such as an email account and CV.

The ability to speak fluent English is a barrier to employment for some borough residents. Using funding from the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) the Council has trained 50 volunteer trainers to deliver the training to borough residents whose verbal English skills are not helping their employability. Some of the volunteers have gone on to achieve professional teaching qualifications. Recognition event with certificates ensure the volunteers feel valued and supported and are therefore more likely to continue volunteering and recommend the experience to others.

The Citizens’ Curriculum Pilot.

After a successful phase 1 pilot, Rochdale was highlighted as the most successful project nationally in improving access to, and positive outcomes from, participation in learning and skills for adults who have complex needs. The pilot is now in phase 2 and we are working nationally with the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Learning and Work Institute (formerly NIACE) to develop a national funding model for this type of approach as a National Adult Study Programme.

Community Champions.

The latest data shows a continuing success and expansion of the Community Champions programme. Over 150 individual Champions have contributed a total of 5,274 hours of volunteering to help others in their community with issues such as learning to read or write, managing their money and coping with mental health or family difficulties. A total of 3,650 interventions have taken place resulting in hundreds of borough residents making marked improvements to their lives and have been able to make progress with becoming more independent and being socially and economically better off. 1788 measurable outcomes have been identified during this time, including improved literacy, English or computer skills, getting a job, keeping a young person in school, and improved health or mental health. I’m sure you will join me in extending our gratitude to these Community Champion volunteers who give their time freely for the benefit of others. Kirkholt Pilot.

The pilot is coming to an end and the final evaluation is due in February 2016. The pilot has resulted in some significant positive outcomes including reduced demand for crisis services, improved skills and employment, improved participation in learning, reduced instances of domestic violence (against a national and boroughwide increase) and prevention of early death. The team are currently working with the evaluators and the Greater Manchester team to consider proposals for the future of a place based approach following the pilot.

Employment

The Council’s Employment Links Team continues to perform well with the delivery of commercial local employment contracts, earning income for the Council. A new contract to deliver employment support was won in December and began in January. This will work with a range of local training providers to ensure local people will low skills can now access appropriate tailored training and be directly linked to new employment opportunities with the support of a single key-worker.

Nine local young unemployed residents, including care leavers and vulnerable adults were supported into employment. Assistance was given with skills and financial management.

Five new jobs for young unemployed residents have been created and filled through the Arts Council funding to the Council for the Creative Industries sector. Another four roles will be created and filled in the new year. Twenty five young people in total have benefited from this programme with success leading to university places, full time employment and self- employment.

The latest unemployment figures for Greater Manchester shows Rochdale is in 7th position with Oldham, Manchester and Salford having higher levels of unemployment. This is the lowest level of unemployment in the borough since March 2008.

Data recently released shows an increase in the average wage levels in the borough. Although this still is lower than the resident wage levels, it is an indication of better quality jobs and the reaction of employers to pay more to attract or retain key skills. Average wage rates for both residents and employees are still significantly lower than NW (£60pw less) and GB (£100 pw less) averages. Activities to tackle the Low pay issue across Greater Manchester will be a new policy area for Greater Manchester local authorities during 2016.

The Working Well pilot (long term unemployed with health conditions) continues to perform on target with 544 borough residents on the programme. Thirty five have been moved into work. Under the Devolution Deal for Greater Manchester, this programme will be expanded 10-fold from April this year.

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 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, 20th JANAURY 2016

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.

Regional Adoption Agency

As part of the recently announced changes under the Education and Adoption Bill there have been further developments. These are part of the Government’s commitment to increase the opportunity of children being placed with an adoptive family and further improve timeliness for those children where adoption is considered to be in their best interests. On 2nd November 2015 the Government announced it will use new legislative powers to intervene to ensure that all councils have plans to join regional adoption agencies by 2017. There is a plan for the whole system to be made up of regional agencies by 2020. The objective being children will have immediate access to up to 10 times more prospective adopters.

Rochdale’s Adoption Service since 2013 has significantly increased the number of children provided with an adoptive family. It has reduced waiting times to levels that are expected to be better than national and regional averages in 2015/16. Notwithstanding this the service has joined with Bolton, Blackburn with Darwin, Bury, Oldham and Tameside and submitted a bid to the DfE for funding to work together and develop a West Pennine Adoption Agency. Our bid has been accepted, funding allocated and a ‘coach’ allocated to enable a operational model to be developed by 1st April 2016.

The West Pennine Adoption Agency brings together 3 of the best performing adoption services currently (Rochdale, Bolton and Blackburn with Darwin are in the top 6 nationally) that will share expertise, increase the pool of available adopters, reduce waiting times for children and develop a comprehensive post adoption support offer in order to reduce the risks of ‘adoption breakdown’.

Shared Services

Members will be aware of the ongoing developments to explore where sharing children’s services between Oldham, Bury and Rochdale Councils can protect frontline services whilst making services more efficient. On 15th December 2015 the sharing of a residential short break service between Oldham and Rochdale became operational. Initial feedback has been positive from staff and service users.

This initiative has also allowed for the remodelling of Rochdale’s Children’s Homes and therefore plans are being developed to dispose of Rugby Road and relocate our short break service for children and young people on the edge of care who do not have a disability to the now vacant Bridgefold Lodge. This move is hoped to take place within the next month and will provide a flexible resource of higher quality.

School Admissions

Secondary Year 7 Admissions- the closing date for applications was 31st October. There were 2571 applications from Rochdale residents. These are being processed through the published co-ordinated arrangements, and offers of places will be made on the National Offer date of 1st March 2016. Primary Reception Class admissions- the closing date for applications is 15th January 2016. There has been a significant publicity campaign to encourage more on time applications, as well as informing schools which children in their nursery classes have yet to apply for a place.

Within Year Applications/transfers between schools- these continue at a very high level and average 100 per month for primary school places and 50 per month for secondary school places. The Authority is currently able to offer places to all children within statutory walking distances, although not always at the preferred school of choice.

Key Stage Results

Overall

Attainment at the end of key stage in 2015 is below national averages. However in the Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, there are improving trends that evidence a closing of the gap between Rochdale’s children to the attainment of all children nationally.

Early Years Foundation Stage

• 57% pupils achieved a good level of development at the end of the Early Years Foundation Stage 2015. This is a 7% increase when compared with the previous year.

Key Stage 1

• At the end of key stage 1, 81% pupils attained at national expectation (level 2B+) in reading. This represents a three year improving trend for attainment in this area, improving by 6% between 2013 -2015. • In writing, 68% attained at national expectation (level 2B+). This represents an improvement of 8% over a two year period. • In mathematics, 77% pupils attained at level 2B+. • Whilst there is evidence over three years of improvement in the percentage of Rochdale’s pupils who attain at level 3, increasing the number of pupils who attain at higher levels remains an area for further improvement. This is being addressed with schools.

Key Stage 2

• 78% pupils attained a combined level 4 in reading, writing and mathematics in 2015. This also shows an improving trend over the three year period. • 21% pupils attained a combined level 5 in reading, writing and mathematics in 2015. This is a slight improvement over a three year period.

Key Stage 4

 Outcomes at Key stage 4 for 2015 are disappointing. Initial reporting of the percentage of pupils attaining 5A* - C including English and mathematics identified that 53% pupils attained 5A*-C (including English and mathematics) at the end of key stage 4, this indicated a drop of 0.9%. However since the initial reporting of this figure in August 2015, the percentages reported by the DFE in the performance tables published in October is 48%. The discrepancy between the two figures is as a result of an anomaly between the actual results achieved in one Rochdale school and the DFE mechanism for reporting contained within DFE Discounting Guidance September 2013. This has not had an impact on the pupils who all achieved the results reported earlier. It is however very disappointing and work has been undertaken with the school concerned to avoid any similar problem in future.  The service continues to work closely with schools to improve performance and has a robust approach to those schools that are a cause for concern to address weaknesses and improve performance. A number of schools that have previously been supported through this process are now progressing well, demonstrating this is an approach that can achieve significant impact.

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 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, 20th JANUARY 2016

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.

Implementing the Care Act

As members know the Care Act, implemented from April 2015, has brought significant changes to Adult Social Care. We are now 9 months into implementation and I can report:

 The new assessment process has been in place since April and is fully Care Act compliant. Work is ongoing to increase the number of people who complete at least part of their assessment on line and this is something we expect will increase year on year.  The new Information and Advice service has been successfully implemented and is linking to community organisations to extend access to Adult Social Care.  The new advocacy service has been successfully implemented, although many people use family and friends as advocates.  The new carer’s assessment has been successfully implemented and we have seen a significant increase in take up of carer’s assessments and personal budgets for carers.  Personal budgets are now allocated to everyone who is eligible for Adult Social Care support following an assessment of need. The service is still working to encourage more people to take their budget as a cash budget as this tends to result in them having more control over how their care is organised and delivered. Numbers are increasing and we expect this to continue in the final quarter of the year.  The Adult Safeguarding Board has been established in line with the new requirements, further development work is ongoing. The Board will be appointing the Independent Chair in January 2016.

The implementation of the Care Act is being closely monitored by the Department of Health and regular stocktakes are completed for this purpose.

Overall the service is seeing an increase in demand, including support for carers, of around 10%. Demand does vary from month to month, however the current increase is placing additional pressures on the adult care budget.

National funding was available this year in recognition of the likely impact on adult social care services however, the level of ongoing funding that will be available is not yet clear. Once the details are known I will report to Members on the impact locally.

Integration with the NHS

The Comprehensive Spending Review contained a requirement for Adult Social Care to develop plans to integrate with NHS services by 2017; to be implemented by 2020. This is a highly significant policy and governance change for Adult Social Care hence, I would like to take this opportunity to update Members on the local integration work. Integration will need to happen in relation to both the commissioning and delivery of services. Integrated Commissioning

Since my last report to Council, the new Integrated Commissioning Board has been set up and has held 2 meetings. This Board is tasked with overseeing the integrated commissioning work programmes across Adult Social Care, as well as Children’s Services and Public Health. It is a subcommittee of the Health and Wellbeing Board.

During this initial period, the Integrated Commissioning Board is chaired by Dr Chris Duffy. The longer term chairing arrangements will be decided as part of the development of the Board. The role of the Board will include decision making in relation to the pooled budget and all the services that are commissioned from the pool.

At the current time the Better Care Fund is the only pooled budget between Adult Social Care and HMR CCG. Members will recall that there are a number of national conditions attached to the Better Care Fund, including developing shared care records. This is a long standing issue – currently health colleagues cannot see council records about a person they are working with and vice versa. The service to the public would be greatly improved if this could be resolved and should result in better coordinated care. I am pleased to report that funding has been identified from the Better Care Fund this year to enable this to be implemented locally and a solution is actively being considered. I am hopeful that we will be able to put this in place within the next 6 months. The other areas of integrated commissioning within the Better Care Fund are:  Commissioning and performance/contract management of the new Intermediate Tier Service  Commissioning and contract management of the integrated equipment service  Commissioning and contract management of a range of enablement services (previously commissioned by HMR CCG)  Recommissioning of carer’s support services

The Better Care Fund also protects the funding for a significant level of Adult Care Services, including the social work assessment teams and the STARS Reablement Service.

Members will recall from my last report that the Better Care Fund has a financial performance payment linked to a 3.5% reduction in the number of emergency admissions to hospital. Whilst the health and care system achieved the first quarter reduction, we were not able to achieve the second or third quarter reduction – with admissions remaining static rather than reducing as required for the performance payment. The service had anticipated that this would be very stretching and had made provision for the possibility of failing to attract the performance payment. It does demonstrate the pressure that the health and adult care system is under, and the complex number of factors that influence the demand on hospital services. This is monitored via the Health and Wellbeing Board.

The autumn spending review announced an improved Better Care Fund for 17/18, however we are still awaiting more information about this and also about what the arrangements will be in 16/17.

At the present time local discussions are still underway about extending the pooled budget arrangements for 16/17. I expect these discussions will be concluded in the coming weeks and look forward to reporting to Members in my next report. Aside from the services contained in the Better Care Fund, we are already working very closely with HMR CCG colleagues on other significant areas of commissioning and in particular mental health services. I would hope that the pooled budget arrangements will be extended to include mental health services in the coming year so that these can be commissioned in an integrated way with CCG colleagues, rather than side by side as at present.

In future, integrated commissioning will be linked to the Locality Plan. In my last report I informed Members that the Council and HMR CCG are working together to produce a locality plan. The plan will include how health, care and wellbeing services will be developed and changed in the next 5 years – to enable people’s health and wellbeing to be improved, years of healthy life increased and for the health and care system to be financially sustainable. The locality plan will be our local contribution to the Greater Manchester strategic plan for health and care, and hence links into the devolution agreement. There has been much work undertaken on this plan in the last few months and it is now nearing completion. This is due to be reported to the Health and Wellbeing Board in February. The plan will need to be agreed by both the Council and HMR CCG Governing Body. Investment will be required in the early years of the plan to achieve some of the changes needed.

Integrated delivery of Health and Social Care Services

The new Integrated Intermediate Care Service.

As part of the Better Care fund work, a new, extended intermediate care service was designed and is now operational. Previous council staff working at Springhill and Tudor Court Resource Centres are now part of this new NHS led service. The service became operational on 1 September 2015 and I am pleased to report it is already delivering the expected level of activity, including diversions from hospital level care and very positive feedback from people using the service. This is being closely monitored and supported as it is still early days, however all the signs are very positive.

Adult Social Care is currently developing joint management arrangements for the STARS service and the Transfer of Care Team, both of which are very closely linked to hospital services and will be strengthened by much closer partnership with NHS colleagues. It is hoped to achieve this by March 2016.

HMR CCG is in the process of recommissioning the Adult Care Community Health Services. Adult Care has been closely involved in this, which is very welcome and reflects the local trust and confidence. Once the new provider is confirmed, our local social care teams will be linking very closely with them, developing an integrated approach to the delivery of health and social care at home. This is an exciting and long overdue development, which our local teams are very keen to make happen. We believe strongly that the care of people with complex needs and especially very frail older people will be significantly improved by the joining up of the range of people involved in the person’s care and support. This will be a major development for 2016.

Delayed Transfers and Hospital Capacity

This winter period is seeing extensive Department of Health requirements for capacity planning in social care to support hospitals. We have continued to work closely, now in a more integrated way with Pennine Acute Hospital Trust. The local hospital system has been under pressure and A and E waiting times have failed to meet the 4 hour target for many months now; however, this is mirrored across the rest of the country and I am pleased to report that social care has played its part in helping to manage the situation. Both delayed transfers and lengths of hospital stays for older people are amongst the best in the region and this significantly helps capacity so that people who do need a hospital bed are able to be accommodated on the right ward at the right time.

Performance

The service is expected to achieve most of its performance targets for 2015/16. One area of concern is the number of people with secondary level mental health needs who are able to continue to work. This is a joint target with NHS colleagues and we know that retaining employment, or being able to regain employment, is one of the key factors that will promote a person’s recovery. Our performance in this area is low compared to others and we are working with the NHS and other colleagues to review how we can do better in this area.

Last time I reported that the Adult Social Care market was quite stable, with sufficient providers in our borough able to provide care at the fee levels agreed with the Council however, I am now concerned that this is becoming less so. In the past 3 months, 3 domiciliary care providers have ceased trading, giving little notice to our Commissioning Team. Recruitment of people who want to work in social care domiciliary services and care homes is becoming increasingly difficult and the new living wage is undoubtedly impacting on this. The Council has a statutory duty under the Care Act to ensure that we have a local social care market able to meet the needs of local people; this presents a very difficult challenge for us, especially in the light of the Council’s reduced budget. Intensive work is currently ongoing with local providers to plan for next year and to understand the fee levels that will be required to ensure we have the capacity we need.

Fee levels affect quality as well as capacity. In my last report I informed Members that the Care Quality Commission inspection regime has been strengthened. There are four new judgements applied to registered social care services: inadequate, requiring improvement, good or outstanding. We must ensure that our commissioning arrangements support all of our providers to achieve a judgement of good – these services play a crucial part in the lives of many of our most vulnerable residents. This must be linked into our discussions about fee levels. The CQC are still undertaking the first inspections of providers under the new regime and our Commissioning Team continue to work closely with providers judged as requiring improvement or, exceptionally, as inadequate. On a positive note I am very pleased to report that one of the first outstanding social care judgements was awarded to PossAbilities, the social care enterprise spun out from the Council in April 2014.

Finally on a personal note, I would like to thank all the Adult Social Care staff who worked over the Christmas and New Year period, the staff who work on Christmas day every year providing support to people in their own homes, and those who interrupted their holiday to help people affected by the floods. Members will be aware that, due to flood damage, a care home in Littleborough had to be evacuated and this was achieved in a well-managed way, causing as little disruption as possible for the very vulnerable residents involved.

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.

Councillor Iftikar Ahmed Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR CULTURE, HEALTH AND WELLBEING TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20th JANUARY 2016

Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Culture, Health and Wellbeing Portfolio.

Health and Wellbeing Board Meetings of the Health and Wellbeing Board took place in October and December. Time was spent reviewing and discussing draft versions of the Rochdale Borough Locality Plan. This plan will describe our ambition alongside our partners to improve the health and wellbeing of residents and will outline how we will meet the challenges of developing a sustainable health and social care system and set of services. This plan is linked to the Greater Manchester Devolution work programme. The latest version is available on the December Health and Wellbeing Board meeting papers on the Council website. The final version will return to the Board in February 2016.

The Board has established an Integrated Commissioning Board which regularly meets to progress the work on integrated commissioning between the Council and the Clinical Commissioning Group. This includes commissioning for adults, children and prevention and wellbeing. Further details and papers on future arrangements will be discussed by both organisations in early 2016.

The Board were pleased to sign off plans for submission to secure additional NHS investment in children and young people’s mental health services, received an update on premature mortality and healthy lifestyles and agreed plans for developing the Board in 2016.

Events Management The 3rd Rochdale Literature and Idea Festival was held from October 23rd -25th 2015. The event was a great success. Over 25 events were held over three days, in addition there were unique and exciting children’s activities. Some of the highlights were: Gervase Phinn, David Starkey, Bonnie Greer, Lemn Sissay, Andy Kershaw, Carol Ann Duffy, Helen Lederer, Dom Joly and an exclusive theatrical production of Around the World in 80 Days funded by the Arts Council. Over 3000 people attended events and activities in the main festival weekend, with over 2000 people attending lead-in events in September and October. This included over 1000 school children either attending libraries or receiving festival visits to their school. The festival used significantly less Maskew Bequest funding than in previous years due to increased ticket sales and sponsorship from Hopwood Hall College, First Bus, JGM, the Local Education Partnership and Bright Books. We received over 200 feedback forms. Every respondent, without exception, said they would consider returning next year. The most common word to describe the festival from attendees was ‘inspirational’. The festival will return in October 2016.

The period from October to December has seen 29 events take place throughout the Borough. These include: several organised bonfires, charity walks/runs, cycle rides, a Frozen themed fun fair and four Christmas Light Switch On events, one in each Township and other community events. The return of the Rochdale Wedding Show in October saw another well attended event in the Town Hall, showcasing both our stunning wedding venue and also over 40 wedding related local businesses. Our partner for this event was Marks & Spencer (Rochdale) who participated in a catwalk show alongside Denis Hope and Brides of Rochdale. Our first Murder Mystery dinner was held in the Town Hall in October and was so successful it will return in 2016 with a different theme. We were proud to support the community with their Remembrance Day Services, held on 8 and 11 November throughout the Borough. The Mistletoe & Gluhwein Bar arrived in Rochdale market place in December, bringing five days of live music, festive food and drink in a light-festooned double teepee. New Year’s Eve saw two firework displays in the town centre, organised by the Town Centre Management Company and supported by the Council. Planning work has already begun for events which will take place in 2016, there are already tickets sold for some of the theatre events and registration opened on 1st December for the Half Marathon. Public Health The Public Health team were awarded the CardiacSmart Gold award by North West Ambulance Service for raising awareness about heart health, basic life support and defibrillators. The whole public health team completed Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training. The Council, in partnership with the Ambulance service and local groups, have been working to have better access to defibrillators and training for a wide range of people across the Borough in order to give people who have a cardiac arrest a better chance of survival.

I can report that our new provider of our Integrated Sexual Health Service is Virgin Care and the new contract for Rochdale and Oldham commenced on the 1st January 2016. All Councils are required to commission open access and comprehensive sexual health services for their residents. We are also required to pay for our residents that choose to go to services out of our area. The location of the main service hub for Rochdale remains at Nye Bevan with satellite clinics across the Borough. This is a jointly commissioned service with Oldham and Bury Councils led by Rochdale Council.

The Public health grant for 2015/16 was unfortunately subjected to an in year cut of £1,056,000. This has been found by freezing and reducing a number of projects earlier in the year. At the time of writing of this report the exact local recurrent budget for public health was not announced for 2016/17. A year on year cut has been announced and is expected, in addition to changes to the formula on which the grant is allocated. Proposals for making savings on current public health funded affected services went out to consultation using the main Council savings consultation process which ends this month.

The Borough Healthy Lifestyle Strategy is being finalised and was discussed by the Health and Wellbeing Board in October. A revised version is being developed to incorporate comments made for sign off in February 2016.

The annual Flu immunisation programme was supported by the Council Public Health team once again this year, including the provision of the popular flu vaccine programme for staff.

The 1st January saw the start of Dry January where people choose or sign up to give up alcohol for 31 days. Members can follow the blog from our Director of Public Health as she takes part along with colleagues. http://www.rochdale.gov.uk/health-and-wellbeing/drink-safely/pages/dry-january.aspx

Drugs and Alcohol We have now turned a corner in engaging more clients in effective drug treatment with latest figures showing a steady increase (1,235). We are also seeing a steady improvement in the numbers engaging in alcohol treatment (728) and working to increase this number. Rochdale has seen a 4.37% fall in the rate of Alcohol Related Hospital Admissions in the 5 years since 2009. The Greater Manchester average was a 1.65% rate increase.

During Alcohol Awareness week we hosted a very successful conference in Heywood which featured 10 keynote speakers with over 90 delegates attending. Training sessions on NPS (‘legal highs’) have taken place with over 220 delegates, a number of media releases have appeared over the summer and these actions together with enforcement work by Public Protection and Greater Manchester Police have significantly reduced reported incidents of NPS harms.

Hopwood Hall College hosted Early Break’s launch of ‘Don’t be a Zombie’, an interactive Application giving information and advice on the types of substances and the harms caused. This has received very good feedback from schools and young people.

The Stepping Stones Project (dispersed tenancies for prolific offenders) is currently supporting 11 properties. We have seen great success with 10 completions this year, only 4 returned to custody with 3 gaining employment and 1 in education.

Domestic Violence We have been in negotiations with the selected service providers regarding the implementation of a behaviour challenge programme for those involved in domestic violence incidents who acknowledge that they need support. Work is ongoing to co-design the model of the new provision and agree referral processes and pathways. Links are also being firmed up with a further new perpetrator programme being developed by RCT (Rochdale Connections Trust), aimed at those displaying a higher level of risk to victims. Ultimately, the aim is a flexible mix of programmes that will cater for perpetrators at all stages of the continuum of risk.

Rochdale Boroughwide Cultural Trust Link4Life The Corporate Plan 2016-19 and Service Plans (Sport and Leisure, Business Support and Community Health and Participation) were approved by the Board on 3rd December 2015. The Annual Report for 2014-15 was also agreed by the Board and the final version will be available early in 2016. Martin Walker was confirmed as a new trustee. There are four remaining vacancies on the Link4Life Board and recruitment is continuing in the New Year with a further round of advertising and interviews planned.

Halloween Events  Halloween Spooktastic - Go4it October Half Term Holiday Clubs had hundreds of children engaged across the whole of the Borough in spooky, engaging and fun activities. There were also Halloween activities taking place in the leisure centres and at Touchstones.  Halloween Monster Mash Ball at Heywood Civic was bigger and better than ever with a sell-out of 350 children and adults, all dressed up with scary make-up effects. The event was supported by Tracing Steps, who performed a sequence of dance and drama at the start of the evening. This year the Anita Tymcyshyn School of Dancing performed three dances and a song, which brought the house down. Next Year’s event is already in development. Christmas Cheer  Santa’s Grotto took place on Saturday 5 December at Touchstones Rochdale.108 children visited, with positive feedback received.  Pantos at Heywood Civic Centre (Jack and the Beanstalk) and Middleton Arena (Peter Pan) produced record ticket sales.

Passport to Leisure card scheme: In April 2015, this scheme replaced the YourLink4Life card. This new scheme offers two types of card; an enhanced ‘extra’ card and a normal yourlink4life card which is available for any Link4Life customers. 4052 card issued since April 2015. Key highlights: • 71% of all cards sold are ‘Extra cards’ • 42% of card holders have used a Leisure Centre within the last 30 days (1702 people) • 43% are male card holders, 57% are female card holders • 17.3% are under 16 years old, 41% are over 55 years old • 55.4% of Extra card holders are in receipt of one form of benefit or allowance • Currently 30% of Extra Card holders are from the 0-10% SOA’s

Rochdale Borough Sports and Cultural Awards were held at Middleton Arena on Thursday 5th October and were an overwhelming success with many positive comments received from those that attended. The Mayor was very complimentary in his closing speech and the event showcased, for the first time, the sporting and cultural talent of the Borough. All the winners went forward to the Greater Manchester Sports Awards which were held on Friday 20th November.

Greater Manchester Fire Rescue service held their annual series of “Safe Drive, Stay Alive” conferences from the 9th to 19th November at Middleton Arena, this was visited by over 4000 people. The conferences are aimed at promoting safe driving among 17 to 25 years old who are the biggest fatality group in road traffic incidents in the UK. People from all agencies and emergency services who have to deal with the consequences of road traffic accidents come together to relate their experiences to audiences in the hope it will make them be more aware on the roads. The event is now in its second year, is booked for a third and is growing in momentum each year. Link4Life are recognised as a key partner in this initiative.

Walking Football: Walking Football is becoming a key offer for Link4Life. With a number of sessions taking place each week. The newest of these started in October at Bowlee Sports Centre. The session started with about 8 people and now there are 25 to 30 people aged 50 to up to 75yrs attending each week. Walking Football players have walked the equivalent of 3,540 miles in the first half of 2015, the equivalent of walking from Rochdale to Russia, and they will achieve the same distance in the second half, giving an annual total of 7,080 miles.

Arts, Culture & Heritage:  This period has seen the launch of two new exhibitions at Touchstones: The Fifth Continent, photography by Rochdale-based Robert Walker and Natural Makers with works by Laura Ellen Bacon, Adam Buick, Sharon Adams and Stuart Cairns. Both exhibitions were commissioned and curated by the A&H team.  Rochdale Photographic Society celebrated its 125th anniversary in November with a display in Touchstones.  The Veterans’ Art Exhibition by VIC (Veterans in Communities) at Touchstones opened in November showing works by ex-service personnel.  Behind the scenes work continues to prepare Egyptian objects from the collection ready for loan to Two Temple Place, a significant achievement for the service to be partnered with such as prestigious partner London Museum. This loan will enable our Egyptian collection to be displayed in Touchstones in 2017 for the first time in over a decade.

Councillor Janet Emsley Portfolio Holder for Culture Health and Wellbeing

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 Culture, Health and Wellbeing Portfolio ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR NEIGHBOURHOODS AND COMMUNITY TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20th JANUARY 2016

Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Neighbourhoods and Community Portfolio to the meeting of the Council on Wednesday, 20th January 2015 . Safer Communities Increasing confidence & satisfaction priority has been heavily involved in the communications for the seasonal campaign ‘Treacle’ providing key safety measures, warning around the consequences of anti-social behaviour and promoting diversionary activities throughout this peak period for anti-social behaviour. The Treacle publicity campaign saw the development of an online platform, on the council website promoting organised bonfires, the Good Guys Scheme, bonfire removal and personal safety throughout the autumn months. Other promotional activities included a social media campaign, e-newsletter for schools, posters and leaflets throughout the borough and a video presence in Number 1 Riverside.

Other communications work has been the promotion of the Disability Hate Crime week, the Crucial Crew event for schools co-ordinated by Community Safety, Alcohol Awareness Week, promotion of domestic abuse scheme ‘Operation Strive,’ development of awareness materials for Legal Highs, support and promotion of the Partnership Enforcement Team (PET) including the Open Day and Community Cohesion events such as the Active Citizens’ art project as well as other ad-hoc initiative and events.

Work is ongoing around assessing how we engage with our community and the development of a communications and engagement plan for the Partnership.

The reducing crime agenda has seen the Police, Council and partners launch Operation Dark Nights, an annual initiative to prevent levels of domestic burglary increasing during the winter months. This has been supplemented by Operation Elf, our annual initiative to provide advice and reassurance to the public in order to reduce levels of theft and other forms of low-level crime in the run up to Christmas

We have launched Programme STRIVE, an initiative aimed at providing early intervention and support in response to ‘standard risk’ domestic violence incidents reported to the Police. STRIVE involves trained PCSOs and partner agency colleagues paying visits to those involved in such incidents to provide advice and signposting into services and support that may help in dealing with issues that may have been behind the incident, and may alleviate further incidents occurring.

The Partnership Enforcement Team has continued with further phases of Operation Retriever, tackling human trafficking and modern slavery, and has also hosted an ‘open morning’, where it showcased its work to an audience of about 50 people from across GM along with myself, Councillor Emsley and our MP.

The PET has also carried out a week of action with colleagues across GM aimed at raising awareness of, and tackling, those engaged in illegal money lending.

Action to prevent and tackle anti-social behaviour has continued during Q2 which has seen a significant increase in referrals to CIG for early intervention and support (from 21 in Q1 to 45 in Q2). In addition 9 cases were heard at ASB Threshold Panel for consultation and 1 Criminal Behaviour Order was secured at Court.

Community Safety have continued to co-ordinate the ASB Risk Assessment Conference providing support to vulnerable victims of ASB dealing with 13 new referrals to the forum and 2 ASB case reviews have been undertaken following ‘Community Triggers’ activated by victims. Preventing offending by children & young people Following the integration of Rochdale and Bury services, the 2016 Youth Justice Plan has been submitted in accordance with the requirements of the crime and Disorder Act. The key points in the Youth Justice Plan cover how the service will tackle youth crime across the two boroughs, and sets targets for the service around these areas and includes an action plan indicating how the service intends to meet the presenting challenges.

Reducing adult reoffending Overall Successful Completions for Orders / Licences (including PSS) - Although 85% Successful completions sounds good there is a careful balance to be struck between getting people through orders and appropriately, safely and defensibly enforcing or revoking orders and recalling licences on the grounds of re-offending or public protection. E.g. in the case of PPO (Prolific and Other Priority Offenders) the 10% who are responsible for 90% of crime are more likely not to complete successfully or to have their licence revoked than generic offenders.

Developing community cohesion and equalities As a response to an increase in Hate Crime across Greater Manchester including Rochdale Borough, the Cohesion Hub in partnership with GMP has delivered a number of community engagement events across the borough to raise the public’s awareness of how to identify, report hate crime and how victims of hate crime can access support. This coincided with the regional Hate Crime awareness week held in the borough in October as well as the Greater Manchester Police & Crime Commissioners consultation event on the of setting Hate Crime priorities which officers and members from the council attended.

Equalities: Following the Equalities Listening Event which took place earlier this year services across the Council have been carefully considering the feedback received and agreeing actions to address the issues raised. Examples of some of the actions include:

 The Revenues and Benefits Service reviewing communication with customers and simplifying standard letters to meet Plain English standards.  Community services placing resources on the staff intranet to encourage RBC staff to become Dementia Friends.  The Early Help & Schools Service creating stronger partnerships between schools, churches and mosques across the borough.  Environmental Management Services preparing access and inclusion statements to improve the quality of information provided to disabled visitors to parks and open spaces.

Townships

The recent round of Township Committees received reports in relation to the Corporate Priority Setting process, the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework and the Savings Proposals 2016/17. Open forum questions were submitted in relation to a variety of issues, including parking concerns, drainage and flooding problems, and proposals affecting Bowlee Park School and South Street Nursery.

Delegated Sub-Committees have met and allocated the majority of Township Funds, those schemes and projects funded will now be progressed. All four Townships have supported the Friends of Tourcoing and their plans to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Borough’s twinning with the French city.

The Township Christmas Lights switch-on events were once again very well attended across the Borough.

Libraries, Customer Services and Advice

Libraries across the borough provide access to IT and provide support to residents who are under-confident in their use of IT. Well attended IT Training sessions are held in 14 libraries, supported by volunteers. Digital Skills for Jobs Sessions are held in libraries across the four townships, in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions. These sessions give job-seekers the skills and knowledge they need to successfully apply for jobs. Rochdale Digital Festival will take place on Saturday February 26th. In 2015 nearly 500 people came to the event at Number One Riverside to learn more about IT in a fun, interactive way. This year’s partners include Google, O2, Boots and BBC Radio Manchester who will be broadcasting live from the festival.

Rochdale Citizens Advice Bureau continues to operate the Council’s Welfare, Housing and Debt Advice Contract. They deal with people through the telephone advice line and hold face to face appointments in libraries and children’s centres throughout the borough. Over 6500 clients have been dealt with by Rochdale Citizens Advice Bureau from April – December 2015, which is more than any other previous nine month period, 8% higher than April-December 2014.

Emergency Planning and Business Continuity Community Safety have continued to manage the Council’s response to emergency incidents within the borough. Our on call officers have responded to a number of issues in particular recent flooding incidents. Work has continued with AGMA Civil Contingencies Resilience Unit in the finalising of our Town Centre Evacuation Plan. There is a training exercise scheduled relating to Winter Weather resilience in January via the Rochdale Resilience Forum.

Community Safety have been co-ordinating the Winter Resilience Group pulling together a Winter Resilience Plan relating to the Council’s winter activity and contingency provisions over this period. In addition a recent Business Continuity exercise took place testing out both our corporate and service area business continuity plans with an incident affecting No. 1 Riverside. This was a successful exercise highlighting additional work streams to further improve our business continuity arrangements, in particular alternative accommodation arrangements and ICT recovery provisions. Work will continue throughout the next quarter.

Welfare Reform Universal Credit There total caseload of Universal Credit claims at 30th November 2015 was 2,840. The proportions of claimants are as follows;

- 25% Middleton, 17% Heywood, 58% Rochdale - 45% aged 16 to 24, 48% aged 25 to 49, 7% aged 50 and over - 63% not in employment, 37% in employment

These percentages have seen little change since the introduction of universal credit.

Claims were accepted from single people and couples from 15th September 2014, and from families from 2nd March 2015. Discretionary Fund Update The Discretionary Crisis Fund has supported 670 vulnerable residents in the first 8 months of this financial year. 3277 individual items have been awarded with a total spend of £146,287. Emergency crisis awards made up 7% of the total spend and 93% has been used for resettlement awards.

Voluntary Sector The community and voluntary sector organisations have been involved in working with the council and health colleagues on the development of the locality plan – which is due to be finalised in February 2015. The voluntary sector has reported that it has been very well involved and this has been positively received

Councillor Daalat Ali Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhoods and Community

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 and Community Portfolio ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR HOUSING AND ENVIRONMENT TO MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20th JANAURY 2016

Thank you Mr Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Housing and Environment Portfolio.

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Waste collection Service

Early analysis shows that the boroughs new weekly food waste recycling service helped increase recycling rates in the borough to 49.6% during November.

During the same month last year 35.9% of waste was recycled, meaning that everyone is recycling more since the service was introduced on 20 October. With over 5300 new recycling bins delivered to households since September, recycling rates are predicted to continue to increase.

The new service sees general waste and other recyclable materials collected on a three-weekly cycle and will help the council save at least £1million a year in waste disposal costs.

Engaging BME Communities in recycling campaign

In addition to new waste collection calendars, an online collection calendar, marketing literature and social media releases, our Recycling team have engaged and spoken directly with over 33% of all households within the borough face to face to promote the new recycling and weekly food waste collection service.

In addition to this and to focus on our harder to reach areas in terms of recycling, a food waste video has been developed to engage the BME community to recycle more of their food waste in the new kitchen and doorstep caddies. The video will link faith to recycling and be available in both Urdu and English. The video will focus on women preparing food, placing food in the caddy and presenting the brown bin/caddy for collection. This video will be available from early February and DVD’s will be made available to community groups, individuals and of course on line via the council’s website.

Engaging School children in recycling campaign

A school pledge to recycle campaign is being developed to encourage households to pledge to recycle to win prizes for their local school. The campaign will engage households on a dedicated website with information on the new recycling service before asking that they pledge to recycle more. The campaign will target all primary schools in January with the campaign itself launching in February.

Christmas Tree recycling

To help us recycle even more, 25 recycling points for Christmas trees were made available to residents across the borough. This wood will be shredded into mulch to improve the borough’s parks, woodland and countryside.

Increase in Bin demand

The new waste service rollout has seen our Environmental Management Team deliver an additional 6000+ recycling bins to residents across the borough. Demand was so high following the new waste service roll-out that despite our pre-planning, our new bin suppliers struggled to keep pace with our residents requirements. I’m pleased to report that following this short delay from our supplier, new bin

1 stock is now in place and teams from across the whole service committed themselves to getting bins out to residents in time for Christmas.

Continuing our Clean and Green success

In October further funding was made available to keep in place the majority of our temporary Clean and Green teams who have been doing an excellent job of clearing grot spots in support of our front line streets teams for the past twelve months. This funding will ensure these individual township based teams are in place to continue clearing grot spots until the end of March 2016. These teams continue to receive compliments across the borough for their work and the difference they are making whilst reacting to Elected Member reports for service. Of late, the teams have also been busy clearing leaf- fall from footpaths in high risk areas such as sheltered housing complexes.

Bloomin wonderful

The amount of work which our friends and neighbourhood groups across the borough including staff from our Environmental Management Service put into the ‘Townships in Bloom’ scheme this year was considerable. Many awards were received across the borough and next year we hope to build upon this success. This year’s success is a great example of how our limited front line resource and groups of dedicated volunteer’s can work together to improve our local environment and in effect produce a better outcome despite the current financial climate.

In addition to these achievements, we also welcomed the news that our hard work had paid off even further by securing the coveted Green Flag status for our existing parks and cemeteries.

Spring Clean

A township focused spring clean campaign will be launched in March this year aimed at every ward within the borough and with a specific focus on clean and green improvements to some of our gateway sites. The Environmental Management Service will be working with individual township Committees to design bespoke schemes that will together deliver a borough-wide spring clean event. Whilst we expect this spring clean to last more than a few days, we do aim to align our efforts with the (ENCAMS), Keep Britain Tidy ‘Clean for the Queen’ campaign. This is a national event which will take place in March to celebrate her majesty’s 90th Birthday. This will be a terrific opportunity for existing and new volunteer groups, including schools across the borough to work together for the benefit of Rochdale whilst supporting and fostering local and national citizenship.

Enforcement

Environmental Action Unit figures for October – December 2015 :  Convictions for environmental crimes: 4  Formal cautions: 3  Referrals to legal services for prosecution: 7  Unauthorised encampment removals: 2  Public Rights of Way enforcement matters dealt with: 5

Cemeteries

The new cemetery site is up and running at Denehurst Park and work is continuing on bringing the rest of this open space and wider park area up to a better standard. In order to drive this development forward a draft Masterplan has been finalised and will be presented to Township Members for consultation in February 2016. This plan makes provision for a new café site, play facilities and new footpaths amongst other development work that is hoped to bring the Park and Cemetery area to the coveted Green Flag standard in the coming years.

A new memorial granite table for receiving floral tributes into the woodland cremated remains garden at Heywood Cemetery has recently been completed and installed. The new facility is expected to help

2 with meeting demand for floral tributes over the Christmas period and other peaks of demand.

Fleet Management

The Service has recently taken receipt of three new 100% electric vehicles, the first ever in our council fleet. Not only will these vehicles be cleaner and greener with no emissions or fuel requirement, they will reduce service delivery costs in terms of fuel spend, tax and insurance costs, saving money whilst helping to save the environment.

HIGHWAYS, PROPERTY AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

 The work at Townhead is now complete.  River reopening roadworks are due to be completed by March 2016 and Lower Yorkshire and Bailee Street improvement will follow these works.  The public realm works in Middleton will restart in the New Year.  Junction 19 is ongoing, to be constructed by 2020  Each Township have appointed the following Highway Champions: Heywood - Peter Rush Middleton – Phil Burke Rochdale - Shaun O’Neill Pennines – Ann Stott And meeting will be held with highways every 6 weeks  A meeting was held with members on 14th December to set out the Governments new funding regime.  A 2 year forward programme is being presented at January 2016 Township’s for approval.

HIGHWAYS (Street Lighting)

The street lighting replacement programme is now in its final year with Eon working to achieve the final milestone.  To date 23,875 existing street lights and illuminated signs have been removed, and  23,936 new energy efficient street lights and illuminated signs have been installed and commissioned which represents approximately 96% of the replacement programme.  As Eon are ahead of programme, It is anticipated that the replacement project will be completed early in the New Year and months before the programme completion date of 4th July 2016.

Street lighting faults are continuing to be repaired in an average time of 3 working days. This excludes faults associated with supply failures, which are referred to Electricity Board (Electricity North West) for repair.

PROPERTY - ESTATES & ASSETS

 So far in 2015/16 the Council has completed the disposal of assets valued at £2,27m, for which capital receipts in the sum of £2.09m have been realised. Properties sold include Whitworth Road Depot and Hill Top School site.  Asset disposals worth a further £4.77m are currently subject to legal completion. Properties in this group include the sites of the former Mossfield and Balderstone Schools (where contracts have been exchanged), and the Sutherland Centre, Darnhill.  The Council’s industrial estate remains 100% occupied, with rental levels increasing. This achievement has been benchmarked against a north west Council average of 93% in 2014/15.

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT - Town Hall  A Very successful Beer festival took place in November - visitors came from around the country using the tram, trains and bus services. It has been quoted by CAMRA “that it is one of the finest locations in the county to stage a beer festival with Over 1600 people attended coming

3 from as far as Lincolnshire”. The beer festival has re booked for next year. The event is staged for charity and it is expected that £5K will be raised for the Mayors Charity.

STRATEGIC HOUSING

WELFARE REFORM

Universal Credit There total caseload of Universal Credit claims at 30th November 2015 was 2,840. The proportions of claimants are as follows;  25% Middleton, 17% Heywood, 58% Rochdale  45% aged 16 to 24, 48% aged 25 to 49, 7% aged 50 and over  63% not in employment, 37% in employment

These percentages have seen little change since the introduction of universal credit.

Claims were accepted from single people and couples from 15th September 2014, and from families from 2nd March 2015.

Discretionary Fund Update

The Discretionary Crisis Fund has supported;  670 vulnerable residents in the first 8 months of this financial year.  3277 individual items have been awarded with a total spend of £146,287.  Emergency crisis awards made up 7% of the total spend and  93% has been used for resettlement awards.

Affordable Housing

 A total of three affordable housing schemes are currently on site all of which are being developed by registered provider partners. Starts on site are planned for a further 4 affordable housing schemes in 2015/16. All seven schemes have received grant funding through the Affordable Homes Programme 2015-18  The above schemes will deliver a total of 195 affordable homes the majority of which will be for affordable rent.  A further 5 registered provider affordable housing schemes are due to commence in 2016/17.

A key scheme in the boroughs Affordable Homes Programme is older persons extra care housing scheme which the Riverside Group are developing on the Langley estate in Middleton. The scheme, which is due to start on site in March 2016, will provide accommodation for people aged 55 and over and will cater for a range of care and support needs.

Housing on former Council Owned Sites Keepmoat Homes are continuing to make significant progress well with the construction of new homes for sale on the Furrows Park/Martindale Crescent site in Middleton.

The position as at the end of November 2015 on the Furrows Park development was as follows:  Of the 108 properties to be developed on the site 48 were completed  31 properties were under construction  47 properties had been sold

 Keepmoat are also progressing well on the Dean Street site in Rochdale since the last update to Council. As at the end of November 2015 the company had completed 49 properties and a further 19 units were under construction. A total of 39 properties have been sold.

 Countryside Properties are progressing with their 69 unit development on Nile Street in

4 Rochdale. All the homes on the site will be for private rent. The first properties are due to be completed in June 2016 and the development is being promoted on the Lettings Agent site where people can express their interest. A press release on the Nile Street development is expected in the New Year.

Homelessness Demand for advice and assistance from households experiencing difficulties has continued to be relatively high.  the number of inquiries reported to the Homelessness Strategy Board for the last quarter had fallen slightly to 3,600;  over 400 households attended appointments;  we have provided supported accommodation to 69 families

Private rented sector housing and Rogue Landlords

The Private Rented Sector Team have continued to assist vulnerable residents found to be living in unfit and inappropriate properties, or experiencing difficulties with their landlords. The current spell of extremely wet weather has caused problems for the aging housing stock that comprises most of our private rented sector, resulting in an increase in the number of private tenant complaints about repairs and faults.  The team have dealt with 239 Private Tenant Complaints so far this year.  The team also deals with the very serious issue of illegal eviction, having prevented 51 such evictions so far this year.

Impending changes to legislation will see increased regulation of the private rented sector, which will be implemented by Strategic Housing.

Empty Properties The Empty Property Team have continued to assist owners in bringing their empty properties back into use, with almost 600 such properties now returned to occupation. Where appropriate, the Empty Property Team has continued to use enforcement powers to ensure properties are brought back into use, including Empty Dwelling Management Orders (EDMO) and Enforced sales.  To date 53 owners have been served with EDMO notices, of which 17 owners immediately commenced work on their properties, 2 Empty Dwelling Management Orders have been granted and the remaining 34 are going forward for legal action and  29 owners of empty properties have entered into leasing arrangements with our housing association partners  Over £165,000 owed to the council has been recovered as a direct result of working to bring empty properties back into use

Energy Efficiency The Green Deal Communities programme has proved to be a success for our borough, with central government grants worth £1.36m being used to improve the energy efficiency of over 400 private sector homes, within some of the borough’s most economically challenged neighbourhoods across Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton townships.

The programme has achieved:  211 solid wall properties will have had external wall insulation installed  200 additional properties will have benefited from other energy saving measures including cavity wall and loft insulation, central heating boiler replacement, new heating controls and door and window replacement

Further external grant funding has been promised and final negotiations are underway, which will lead to a further programme commencing in the New Year.

5 CORONERS AND REGISTRARS

Members may recall that in my last report I advised of the Ministry of Justice proposals to close Oldham’s Magistrates’ and County Courts that the Coroner uses for Jury Inquests. We have a statutory duty to provide the Coroner with suitable premises for his inquests. Although the majority of cases are heard at the Phoenix Centre in Heywood this cannot accommodate the larger cases that include juries. We are currently proposing to make use of the refurbished Council Chamber to hold these larger inquests and to use the newly installed technology to incorporate remote witnesses via video link to reduce costs in paying witness travel and accommodation expenses.

Councillor Jacqui Beswick Portfolio Holder for Housing and Environment

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 Portfolio

6 ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR CORPORATE AND REGULATION TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20th JANUARY 2016

Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Corporate and Regulation Portfolio.

PLANNING

Development Management

The number of planning applications submitted to the Council remains high, a sign of continued economic investment in the Borough. Our fee income is predicted to be around £900k for the calendar year, a similar figure to 2014. The recently published central government statistics for planning performance confirm the authority exceeds the targets for a special measures designation, although this is through the prior agreement of extensions of time with applicants in many cases. As such, there will be no loss of decision making or fee refunds. National targets for planning will be tightened in 2016 with a halving of the time taken to reach planning decisions before any fee refund and further measures on appeals performance. These changes are being reported to Planning Committees for Members information.

Core Strategy

The Council is awaiting the report of the Planning Inspector following the closure of the Examination in Public in June. At his request, the Council has submitted its response to the Inspector in terms of how it proposes to take account of the recent Ministerial Statement on wind power developments along with minor modifications proposed to update references and improve the clarity of wording where required to accord with more recent legislation and guidance. We are now awaiting the Inspectors formal report and any modifications to the Strategy that he feels will be needed to find the plan sound. Officers are in regular contact with the Planning Inspector. Following a statutory period of consultation on any final modifications proposed by the Inspector it is hoped to adopt the Core Strategy through Full Council during the Spring of 2016.

Building Control

Shared Service/Partnership project

The service is in the process of looking at a new method of service delivery with a proposal to form a partnership/shared service with Trafford MBC and Bury MBC building control services, with an initial start date of April 2017. Negotiations and organisational planning is underway.

Turner Bros, Rooley Moor Road

The enhanced site security (post fires) remains on site and there have been no reported intrusions onto site notified to RBC since its deployment. Perimeter air sampling, at 4 locations around the site and at 1 control location (number 1 Riverside) commenced in September 2015 and are being regularly analysed. RBC is committed to sharing information appropriately about the site, and in line with certain requirements around information governance. The Council will endeavour to ensure that the TBA Working Party is kept informed about any key decisions relating to the site, particularly with any site investigation work which may be undertaken in the future.

LEGAL & HUMAN RESOURCES

The litigation team oversaw the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA) inspection by the Chief Surveillance Commissioner’s Inspector on 2 November 2015. The Inspection was successful and the Council was judged to have sound arrangements in place.

Elections

The annual electoral registration canvass process has now concluded and the revised electoral register was published on 1 December. This register will be used by the Boundary Commission for the review of Parliamentary constituencies which commences in January 2017. Once further details and dates for the consultation process for this borough are known, it will be cascaded to elected members for consideration. Canvass activity and the promotion of voter registration will continue with monthly updates to the electoral register.

Planning for the local elections in May 2016 has already commenced with a review of polling places. Preparations will continue in the new year along with the arrangements for the EU referendum in line with directives from the Regional Returning Officer - Sir Howard Bernstein (Manchester CC) and collaborative working within AGMA.

Governance & Committee Services

The Governance and Committee Services Team continues to provide a full clerking service to a whole range of Council Committees, Sub-Committees, Working Groups and school admission and exclusion appeals. In addition they provide a similar service to partners such as Link4Life.

Since my last report to Council, the Team have been heavily involved in the establishment and co-ordination of the Integrated Commissioning Board, a Sub-Committee of the Health and Wellbeing Board, which will be at the forefront of delivering Rochdale's input into the Greater Manchester Devolution agenda insofar as it affects health and social care.

The team is currently leading a review of the Council’s arrangements for Committee Reports, with a view to streamlining arrangements, helping support decision-makers more effectively and reducing costs.

The Child and Adult Care Legal Team

The Team continues to work with Children’s Social Care and the family Court to implement the Family Justice Reforms to ensure that care proceedings are conducted within 26 weeks. The team has conduct of many cases, some complex and of national importance. The Adult Care Team provides a wide range of legal advice to Adult Care Services, including advice in respect of the Care Act 2014 and Deprivation of Liberty matters.

Property Team

The sale of the former Hill Top School site for residential development, has been completed, together with two surplus land sites sold at the last auction – Foxholes Road and Worsley Street. Human Resources

The HR Service are leading on the workforce consultation with staff and trade unions on the budget savings proposals for 2016/17. The consultation commenced on 24 November and will conclude on 8 January 2016.

Preparations are now underway to undertake the recruitment to the position of Assistant Director, Children’s Social Care.

ICT

Work continues on the implementation of self-service tools and associated process automation; to reduce the amount of calls coming into the ICT Service Desk. Processes like ‘starters and Leavers’, ‘password resets’ and ‘changing folder permissions’ will be greatly improved; reducing the costs of running the Service Desk in time for efficiencies next year.

Work is progressing to look at further opportunities to work closer with neighbouring Councils. Specifically with Oldham around shared Information Governance. Early investigatory work has now completed and recommendations papers are being produced.

Work continues at pace to have a full set of customer based Service Level Agreements for the start of April. ICT is giving its customers the ability to see detailed information on how much ICT their staff consume with the intention to reduce demand for ICT from April

Information and Business Solutions

The Connected Council Programme enables a single account for citizens, providing them with improved online capabilities; it also creates a mechanism to bring together data and information from many sources providing the Council and its partners with better intelligence. The single account for citizens is to be called the Rochdale MyAccount and through internal discussions the agreed official launch will be at the Rochdale Digital Festival on 27th of February. Sponsorship is being discussed with some of the key companies involved.

In order for the MyAccount to go live the Council’s Contact Centre will aim to complete its move to new Customer Relationship Management Software and a new telephone system. The changes will be significant and effect how the agents work; reducing Contact Centre costs and improving customers services through empowerment of the agents, giving the quicker and more accurate information about the person they are speaking to; they will also be able to encourage self-service. The changes to the Contact Centre are expected to happen towards the end of January

Many new online services are being made ready for the launch and for the months following the launch, these include Adult Care’s new web services, Revenue and Benefits online services and many electronic forms to support public interaction with Environmental Management such as pot holes, fly-tipping, and waste disposal.

Corporate Performance and Planning

As part of the efficiencies and phase 2 management restructure the roles and objectives of this team are being put in place to align to the future needs of the Council.

All planning and performance reports are being set to align to the Council’s new Directorate structure, the 3 overview and scrutiny committees and a 3 year corporate plan. Substantial work continues to ensure the presentation of performance indicators to Senior Management and Members is suitable for the audience.

Further work continues on the development of a suite of key performance indicators for each Service within a Directorate. Once agreement is found these will be included in the suite of KPIs at the Directorate level as a whole and reported to SMTs, Leadership team and Portfolio holders and appropriate.

Councillor Neil Emmott Portfolio Holder for Corporate and Regulation

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 and Regulation Portfolio ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

CABINET MEMBER REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE CABINET MEMBER FOR FINANCE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20th January 2016

Thank you Mr Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Finance Portfolio.

I am pleased to present my report to Council as Portfolio Holder for Finance.

a) Finance

i) 2015/16

Budget Fixing Council set a balanced budget for 2015/16 on the 24th February this year. The budget includes a challenging saving programme I can report that as at October 2015:

 £27.797m has been achieved as planned;  £3.142m are on target to be achieved as planned;  £1.369m are expected to be achieved via mitigating actions;  £0.250m are still to be addressed.

Services are now incurring expenditure against their approved budgets with an overspend net position of circa £0.28m currently being forecast to the end of the current financial year. The overspends are in the areas of Children’s Services, mainly due to numbers of Cared for Children being above the level of budget and the Neighbourhoods Directorate around the waste levy. The projected overspend can be covered by the provision in the Budget Pressures Fund therefore we are not expecting an overall budget deficit in 2015/16.

We are continuing to make investments and a capital programme, taking into account re-phasing the 2015/16 Capital Programme is £47.6m in total. The Capital Programme includes provision for the maintenance of our assets, Town Centres schemes, continuing investment around derelict land clearance etc.

The Councils element of the Collection Fund which includes both business rates and council tax is currently forecasting a net surplus of £1.727m.

The position on the Collection Fund for 2015/16 will be monitored throughout the year and any surplus or deficit will form part of the 2016/17 budget setting process.

iii) 2016/17 and 2017/18

The funding position of the Council is not expected to improve in the foreseeable future; the provisional budgets for 2016/17 to 2017/18 currently have a funding gap of £37m over the two years. (£21m in 2016/17 and £16m in 2017/18).

The Government issued the Autumn Statement and the Spending Review on the 25th November. The key message for Local Government was

E:\moderngov\Data\AgendaItemDocs\6\0\7\AI00018706\$aekd11vd.doc 1 “Significantly reduce the central government grant to local authorities, while introducing a new Council Tax precept for social care, and undertaking the full devolution of business rates and new responsibilities so local areas have the tools to drive local growth”.

I have reported to Cabinet in December on the Governments spending plans for the next 4 years and the potential implications for Rochdale Council where known. This report provides some valuable information on the potential implications for Rochdale BC.

The funding gap is being reviewed following the announcement of the provisional settlement on the 17th December and will be reported to Council at Budget Fixing Council in February.

It should be noted that the Council has already agreed savings totalling £143m since 2010.

The second round of savings proposals are currently out for consultation which concludes on the 8th January.

b) Revenues & Benefits

Direct Debit Collection of council tax and business rates is crucial to enable the Council to have the resource to fund essential services to residents. I’m pleased to report that collection is improving.

Direct Debit is our preferred method of paying council tax. At the end of November, 78.4% of all council tax paid (£49.3m) had been collected by Direct Debit, this is an increase from the same time last year of £1.0m. This is really good, but we continuously look to improve this position. Further take-up activity will be undertaken early in the new year before 2016/17 bills are issued.

Council Tax Collection Update At 30 November, 72.3% of council tax due had been collected; this is 0.5% better than the same time last year. Collection from working-age residents receiving Local Council Tax Support is 50.1%, which is 2.8% better than last year. The target is to achieve 94% overall collection by the end of the financial year, we are on target to achieve this.

£3m of council tax arrears was collected during 2014/15. At 30 November, £2.8m of previous years arrears had been collected, which is better than the same time last year. The target is to improve arrears collection by the end of the financial year.

Business Rates Collection Update At 30 November, 71.4% of business rates due had been collected; this is 0.2% better than the same time last year. The target is to maintain the 2014/15 collection performance of 98.1% by the end of the financial year, we are on target to do this.

£1.5m of business rate arrears was collected during 2014/15. The target is to improve arrears collection by the end of the financial year.

ii) Housing Benefits: The Council currently processes housing benefit on behalf of Central Government in line with a national scheme. I can report that the maximum period before a claim is worked on is now down to 8 days and therefore ahead of the

E:\moderngov\Data\AgendaItemDocs\6\0\7\AI00018706\$aekd11vd.doc 2 target of 2 weeks which is excellent news.

This performance has been maintained even though we have increased workloads following the introduction of Universal Credit and referrals from HM Revenues and Customs (HMRC).

The service has also reviewed how claims are processed in order to deliver a more efficient approach, through implementing Risk Based Verification.

cOur actions are aimed at reducing waiting times for processing claims, maintaining accuracy and delivering a good customer experience.

Discretionary Housing Payments: the latest position is 1,641 applications received, with 990 awards made, 597 refused and 54 awaiting a decision. In terms of awards, we have awarded £336,000 from the annual DWP grant for 2015/16 of £445,000, we are on target to fully utilise the Governments Funding.

iii) Blue Badges: processing of Blue Badges remains up-to-date with all applications being dealt with in a timely manner.

iv) Local Council Tax Support: the Council operates a Local Council Tax Support Scheme, claims are assessed alongside housing benefit claims and timescales for completion are consistent. An awards policy is in place to consider awards of Discretionary Council Tax Support from the hardship fund.

v) Fraud Investigations: the Council continues to take tackling of fraud very seriously, with the new Counter Fraud Team up and running; having investigated 158 cases and identifying £219,000 in fraudulent payments. Also the team continues to play an integral part in the Partnership Enforcement Team working on joint operations with GMP and other enforcement staff.

Councillor Allen J Brett

Portfolio Holder for Finance 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 Portfolio

E:\moderngov\Data\AgendaItemDocs\6\0\7\AI00018706\$aekd11vd.doc 3 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 20th January 2016

Thank you Mr Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to Heywood Township.

Our heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers who over the Christmas and New Year period have shown magnificent community spirit in the wake of the devastation of our flooded Borough. Our thanks go to the Emergency Services who responded magnificently in the wake of this disaster. Let’s hope 2016 brings more hope and joy to our residents who have been affected by these floods.

Heywood In Bloom

Heywood in Bloom went to the It’s Your Neighbourhood awards on Wednesday 28th October 2015 at the Southport Theatre and Convention Centre. The awards for that day were for the groups nominated from the official Heywood route, six members collected seven awards, where level five has achieved top marks: Mike Goldrick Windows & Blinds Ltd Level 3 Developing Roeacre Court sheltered accommodation Level 4 Thriving Smethurst Street community garden Level 4 Thriving Cherwell Court sheltered housing Level 5 Outstanding Heywood & District Angling Society Level 5 Outstanding TOPS The Old Police Station Level 5 Outstanding Friends of Hopwood Park Level 5 Outstanding All of these awards go to well deserving volunteers groups who put in many hours to make their area more attractive and available for community enjoyment, all should be very proud of each one of these awards and congratulate every winner.

Friday the 30th October 2015 was the second half of the awards at Southport. The Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale attended on the Friday to accompany groups from Rochdale Borough onto the stage. A Gold award was collected on behalf of Heywood Distribution Park the grounds of which are one of the largest in the country and always immaculate. The next award was a Silver Gilt going to our beautiful Queens Park a very well used park which attracts families from miles around. Walter Lomax and Councillor Peter Rush from the Friends of Queens Park Group attended and collected the award for Queens Park. The Old Police Station, TOPS, a business centre and the Heywood In Bloom headquarters won a Gold award which caused great excitement when announced. The route was awarded a Silver Gilt. So this year Heywood In Bloom achieved a total of eleven awards for Heywood as a whole. Business support for Heywood In Bloom is growing with the addition of three more businesses this year The Albany public house, Phoenix Brewery and Heritage House business centre on Green Lane. Businesses support the Group by placing hanging baskets, creating flower beds on their property with some also putting up banners. Massive thanks go to all those who took part in this year’s entries, all the volunteers who gave up hours of their time and RBC Environmental Management Services for all they do year round to ensure fantastic competition entries and a Town to be proud of. The entry of Queens Park this year is evident of how much our Environmental teams do to keep our town looking well cared for and attractive. Heywood in Bloom would like to thank all their supporters and Heywood Township Councillors for their support and encouragement throughout the year.

Heywood Town Centre development

Progress is now in being following the demolition of the old Boots Site in Heywood Town Centre and developers are hoping to commence the development of new housing in 2016. RBH have plans to demolish the majority of their old housing stock on Angel Meadow and replace with new affordable two and three bedroom housing.

Remembrance

The Town’s Remembrance Service and Parade on Sunday the 8th November 2015 was yet again the best ever attended with people in attendance representing all walks of life and ages in The Heywood Community. Many thanks to The Blackley Brass Band who led the Parade along the new route through the Town Centre. Heywood Civic Centre hosted a Reception pre Service and refreshments afterwards and was very well attended. Sunday 29th November 2015 saw Heywood celebrating and recognising Lancashire Day, on this day in 1295 the first elected representatives from Lancashire were called to Westminster by King Edward I to attend The Model Parliament.

Also this day the Anniversary of Aden Day was commemorated with a Service at the Memorial Gardens to which the National Vice Chairman and members of the North West Branch Aden Veterans Association and Community attended. Sunday the 27th November 1967 saw the withdrawal of troops, from the bitter and bloody Aden conflict against formidable terrorists which resulted in 280 British Regular and Special Forces Service personnel losing their lives and many hundreds injured.

Heywood Christmas Festival

Heywood Christmas Festival took place on Saturday the 21st November 2015. Township funded a new dazzling set of tree lights with 8,000 white LED lights, which wowed the crowds at switch on time. There was a full day of activities, stalls, entertainment, lots of costumes, the Frozen Sisters and Super Heroes being extremely popular together with free children’s arts and crafts and entertainers and a massive Parade with seven magnificent Floats, costume characters, voluntary groups, vintage cars and the brand new lit up Rotary Santa Sleigh. I would like to extend my thanks to all the volunteers and especially the Heywood Business Group in assisting the Township in putting on such a memorable event.

Bonfire

This year’s Heywood Bonfire on Tuesday the 3rd November 2015 took place on a new site off Queens Park Road which allowed a much bigger fireworks display.

Hopwood Recreation Ground

The Friends of Hopwood Park organised the Hopwood Winter Market which went ahead as planned on Saturday 14th November 2015 despite torrential rain. The local and wider community came out to give support in their hundreds. Over 35 independent stalls were booked with a wide range of local crafts, gifts and some fundraising stalls raising money for other local charities. The Friends of Hopwood Park volunteers provided all the food and drink stalls including mulled wine, bacon baps, hot dogs, hot drinks and cakes. Hopwood Community Primary School choir brightened the day with their beautiful singing. Middleton Youth brass band gave a fantastic performance and Roch Valley Radio Road Show also came along and was a fantastic help on the day. To start the event some younger members officially opened Hopwood Cabin, a new refreshment facility on the park which has been completely paid for and equipped with funds raised by the group in the last few years. Councillor Wardle came along and kindly donated £500.00 from the Mayor’s Charity Fund 2014/15 which is really appreciated by the Group and will be spent wisely. Everyone was delighted to see Liz McInnes MP who came along to the event to show her support. All the volunteers did a fantastic job despite the bad conditions and the Group are extremely grateful to the community for their support. The event raised over £2014 which will be invested into future park projects to benefit the community.

Heywood Food Bank

Heywood Food Bank was given funding from Township North Ward Funds to assist their efforts to ensure local disadvantaged families were supported in having a happy Christmas, they worked in conjunction with Holy Family R C and C of E College to supply Christmas Hampers and gifts for many children.

Police and Community Safety

The Heywood police cadets go from strength to strength, they recently had their passing out parade at GMP Headquarters. They are an excellent group of local young people. They have taken part in several local events including the Remembrance Sunday Parade and Operation Dark Nights.

Operation Slaines is ongoing to counter a slight increase in evening time burglaries to dwellings, sheds, garages and commercial premises in the last few weeks, which will include plainclothes and uniform officers patrolling in key locations. There have already been some successes with notable arrests. Moreover, Operation Dark Nights is running alongside it with crime prevention work where a small area is targeted just as it starts to go dark for a couple of hours or so bringing to the attention of householders that they have not put lights on.

There has also been a slight increase in robberies to commercial premises and there are currently four males on bail in relation to several of these offences, detectives are working on these recorded incidents with a view to detecting as many of these robberies as possible.

The change of route for both the Remembrance Sunday Parade and the Christmas Parade during the Christmas Festival has been a success and Police suggest it is used as a blueprint for future events in the Town Centre.

Efforts are being made to improve engagement in Heywood West Ward with meetings in addition to the PACT to ascertain how the public of West Ward want the police to police their area.

On Thursday 17th December 2015 local police held a party for victims of crime, some vulnerable members of our community, and others held at Virgin Active on Heywood Old Road. It was a great success. The invitees ate a Christmas meal, received presents, enjoyed entertainment and had a thoroughly enjoyable evening. Many thanks go to Virgin Active, the other businesses and volunteers from Heywood and Middleton that took part, along with police staff who made it all possible. In addition to this police have been delivering Christmas hampers in the community too.

Operation Elf, the Christmas economy operation saw patrolling increase at key times during December so that shoppers and revellers felt safer. The mobile police station was deployed too, with the public calling in for advice. Christmas is always a busy time for the police but with staff in the right places at the right times the whole experience was made more pleasant, happy and joyous for the people of Heywood.

Councillor Ray Dutton Chair of Heywood Township 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 Heywood Township Committee. ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

TOWNSHIP CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE MIDDLETON TOWNSHIP CHAIR TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY 20th JANUARY 2016

Thank you Mr Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Middleton Township.

We have held the following Township Committees, sub-committees and working parties in the last cycle:

1. Township Committee Middleton Township Committee Meeting took place on Thursday 26th November 2015.

The meeting was attended by around 12 members of the public, and during the Open Forum the following questions were raised:

 Committee considered a number of issues raised by residents including parking issues on Kinder Way, traffic issues at Manchester New Rd, Mellalieu Street and Peach Bank, management issues with HMO’s, parking issues on Mill Fold Rd, Middleton Regeneration, disused buildings in Middleton Town Centre, Proposed enlargement of Bowlee Park CP School. A presentation was given on Corporate Priority Setting Process 2016-19.

The Committee approved minutes from previous meetings of Township Committee, Middleton Devolved Funding & Services Sub-committee and Middleton Planning Sub- Committee, in addition a number of reports were also submitted and included; Proposed Enlargement of Bowlee Park CP School, Middleton Town Centre Public Realm, Greater Manchester Spatial Framework, Savings Programme 2016/17 and 2017/18, Proposed Discretionary Fees and Charges 2016/17, Revenue Budget Update 2016/17 to 2017/18 & Capital Programme 2016/17 to 2018/19.

2. Township Sub-Committees and Working Parties The cycle of sub-committees commences this quarter, and some of the issues raised are detailed below:

Culture, Leisure and Tourism The Middleton Culture, Leisure, Tourism & Community Cohesion meeting took place on 4th November 2015. The group discussed several matters including Middleton’s THI and the new Township Event Planner. Future meetings will be combined with Middleton’s Environment Forum as of January 2016.

Regeneration The Middleton Regeneration Group discussed a number of issues such as Warwick Mill, Middleton Triangle, Stakehill Industrial Estate, Providence Chapel, Tonge Hall and Hopwood Old Hall.

Planning Middleton Planning Committee has taken place twice during this quarter (28th October & 17th December 2015) and considered a number of applications; 71 Residential Units at site East of Boothroyden Rd, Middleton (28.10.15) Extra Care Unit on Langley, Hollin Lane/Langley Lane residential dwellings (17.12.15).

Both meetings were well attended and several questions were able to be aired and answered. Environment Forum The Middleton Environment Forum meeting took place on the 18th November 2015 and following issues were discussed by residents; Clean and Green extra funding, Middleton Arena booking office, missing refuse bins and the meeting received updates from several ‘Friends of’ groups. Future meetings will be combined with Middleton’s Culture Meeting as of January 2016

Devolved Funding and Services The meeting of Middleton Devolved Funding & Services sub-committee has met twice in the past quarter and took place on 7th October 2015 and 2nd December 2015 and considered applications from the following;

7th October 2015  Girls Football  Landscaping of Lime Fields Park  Bench for Middleton Memorial Gardens  Lamp/Street Light – Morton Street  Demesne Community Centre – Oven & Cycle Park Facilities  Early Break – Assertive Outreach Project  Litter Pick Pack  Bank Top Fencing

2nd December  Oldham Rd/Townley St Signal Study  Bowlee Community Park Development  John Lee Fold Waiting Restrictions  Alkrington Library equipment for activity group  Friends of Tourcoing event  Rochdale Hornets Sporting Foundation  Provision of grit/salt bins X 2 (East Ward)

Members approved a total £27,117.80 of funding. Funds are subject to Terms & Conditions being met.

PACT Meetings (Police and Community Together) held this quarter;

East – 10th December 2015 South – 26th October 2015 & 8th December 2015 West – 25th November 2015 North – 14th Jan 2016 Hopwood Hall – 17th December 2015

Police and Councillor Briefing The Middleton Police and Councillor Briefing group met on 3rd November 2015 and discussed a number of matters. A ward by ward breakdown on crime statistics was presented by the Middleton Police Inspector.

Halloween Tours On the 30th October Middleton hosted two Halloween tours around the Middleton area. These proved to be popular and very well attended. They proved to be that popular that not only will we be holding future Halloween tours but also further Heritage tours of Middleton’s historic buildings.

Remembrance Sunday The annual Middleton Remembrance Service took place on the 8th November at the Memorial Gardens and this event was again extremely well attended. The Vicar Martin Short from Middleton Parish Church conducted the service and the Mayoress and various other dignitaries were in attendance. Thanks go to the Royal British Legion for the organisation of this event. Its attendance grows year on year.

Middleton Christmas Lights Switch On This event was bigger than ever with many attractions for both old and young. The lights were switched on by the Mayor with the Mayoress and also attending was the MP for Heywood/Middleton Liz McInnes and Chair of Middleton Township. After the lights switch on there was a fabulous display of fireworks arranged by Middleton Shopping Centre. Thanks go to Middleton Town Centre Management team for the organisation of this event.

Middleton Small Business Saturday The Chair of Middleton Township together with the MP for Heywood/Middleton Liz McInnes were engaged in judging the best dressed windows of the shops participating in this event and highly commended were Spring Hill Hospital and Silk & Sugar. Susan Travis Florist won the Christmas Window Dressing comp, which had 12 participants this year covering the Gardens, Long St and Lodge St. The event was organised by Adam Torvell of Middleton Town Centre Management.

Feedback on the vouchers was very positive from the majority of traders taking part. Businesses liked that they were mentioned in the Middleton Guardian and the fact they could put up posters advertising the offers. MTCM plan to take this promotion in house next year and tailor it specifically to Middleton rather than it being led by the main RMBC Comms unit.

Middleton Market Plans on the advertising of Middleton Market for 2016 are currently being worked on by Middleton Town Centre Management to ensure the success continues into the next year.

Good News

Clean and Green Team The good news is this facility has been extended for Middleton until the end of March 2016. The team are doing a wonderful job of tidying, removing leaves and generally sprucing the place up.

New Fishing Tackle Shop Middleton is glad to welcome back the business of a local fishing shop ‘Absolute Angling’ which has recently opened its doors on Long Street. This is an excellent good news story to demonstrate growing businesses within the Middleton area.

Warwick Mill ‘Cotton to Commerce – Middleton Mill to become a £50m global trade hub…’ A Hong Kong based property development company’s biggest investment project in Europe is set to get under way after permission was given for the £50 million redevelopment of Warwick Mill, Middleton. With the creation of 200 jobs this is fantastic news for Middleton and the borough of Rochdale.

Thank you Mr Mayor. I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matters relating to the Middleton Township Committee.

Councillor June West, Middleton Township Chair ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE CHAIR OF THE PENNINES TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20th JANUARY 2016

Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Pennines Township Committee.

Highways

The Highways Service has agreed the capital programme for 2015/16 and completed all outstanding work on the Highway Investment Programme (HIP) by the end of March 2015. These schemes will deliver improved traffic flow through the Pennines villages. The following works are remaining on highway and structure schemes as part of the capital programme for 2015/16

 Todmorden Road Retaining Walls 3 and 4 – work ongoing  Higher Calder Brook retaining wall – planned  Cook St area traffic calming

A 2 year forward programme is being presented at January 2016 township for approval.

We have responded to flooding issues over the previous couple of months and are working on a long term solution to Calder Avenue

Library Service

Libraries are being well used across the Pennines Township, particularly to support customers in the following priority areas: Health and Wellbeing; digital inclusion; skills, jobs and business support; reading and literacy; early years and stronger families; preventing social isolation – particularly with the elderly.

There are weekly events and activities at every Pennines library including IT Training sessions and reading groups. There have been slightly more visits so far in 2015-16 than in the equivalent time in 2014-15.

Many residents of the Pennines visited the highly successful Rochdale Literature and Ideas Festival between October 23-25. There were class visits to Pennines schools and fringe events in venues within the Pennines.

Youth Service

Young people in the Pennines have been involved with the Stoptober Campaign and have learnt about the effects of smoking and the dangers that it can have on your health and wellbeing. They have also looked at the different types of cancers that can be attributed to smoking.

Other projects that young people have covered are personal safety particularly in relation to trick or treating, bonfire and firework safety. Some young people have also participated in a project for black history month and during October half term they visited the Slavery Museum in Liverpool. A group of young people in Smallbridge held a MacMillan coffee morning in the library and they managed to raise £70 for this very worthy cause. Young people in Milnrow enjoyed making ribbon badges for World Aids Day on 1st December so much that they decided that they would make larger ones to display on the Christmas tree. Other work undertaken has included alcohol awareness in preparation for the pending Christmas festivities. Detached youth workers have been on the streets on Monday, Thursday and Friday evenings engaging young people in positive activities and discussions on a number of issues. Future plans for young people in the Pennines include the start of another Duke of Edinburgh group, preparation for a presentation at a future Township meeting, football sessions on a Tuesday evening at Wardle Academy and issue based work in Milnrow YC, Smallbridge Library and on the mobile buses.

Community Safety

In response to anti-social behaviour, Council Officers are working with Councillors and the Friends of the Park to improve the CCTV in Milnrow Memorial Park. This will improve the safety for park users and increase the capacity to gather evidence of incidents.

Community Safety has led on a project to improve CCTV along Dale Street. The cameras have been replaced with an improved High Definition quality which is monitored centrally at Holland Rise. This had made a significant improvement to costs in resourcing the viewing and downloading of footage on site.

Crime & ASB Prevention Officers continue to undertake investigations of crime and anti-social behaviour reported by members of the community via direct contact, Members Enquiry System, ASB web reporting and contact centre notifications. These incidents can range from groups congregating and causing minor disturbance to loud noisy parties culminating in fighting. These incidents are dealt with using ASB procedures / tools and powers and can lead to Acceptable Behaviour Contracts or Criminal Behaviour Orders. Recently a young person living locally has been made subject to an Anti-Social Behaviour Order.

Working within the Partnership Enforcement Team at Rochdale Police Station the Crime & ASB Prevention Officers contribute to gathering and providing intelligence on Organised Crime Groups working within communities across the Borough of Rochdale covering all Townships. This work is highly confidential as it is sensitive in nature i.e. CSE and Human Trafficking offences. Often these crimes come to light from a report of low level ASB and upon further investigation have led to prosecutions.

Community News

Flooding The Boxing day floods had a major impact in Pennines Township with many areas being affected this included a number of houses and businesses in Littleborough; those affected received remarkable levels of support from volunteers within the community and from public services. Many items have been donated, and services provided free of charge by local tradesmen, as a Township we are extremely grateful for this. In such dire circumstances the community spirit was incredible and support is still ongoing.

Remembrance Sunday Residents across the Pennines turned out in their hundreds to show their support and pay their respects at Milnrow, Littleborough, Wardle and Shore services. The numbers attending grow year on year, the Council work with the community and partners to ensure the events are a success.

Pennines Clean and Green Team The Clean and Green Team are continuing to address local grot spot issues around the Township. We have received really positive feedback from residents when clean-ups are completed.

Smallbridge Christmas Festival Children and families enjoyed an afternoon of craft session, refreshments and Christmas carols at Smallbridge Library. Lanterns, made by the children, were illuminated during the carols and even Santa managed to make an appearance. The event was enjoyed by all.

Littleborough Lights Switch On Rain didn’t stop the community turning up and enjoying another fantastic event organised by Littleborough Events and Activities Forum (LEAF). Following activities and entertainment provided by local groups, the lights were switched on by the Littleborough Lions peace poster competition winner.

Small Business Saturday Window judging took place on 5th December in Milnrow and Littleborough. It was clear that shops and businesses had increased their efforts as the standard of festive shop windows was extremely high and proved difficult to judge. Village Treasures and Flower Borough were crowned the winners with three runners up certificates also being awarded.

Councillor Aftab Hussain Pennines Township Committee 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 Committee ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE CHAIR OF THE ROCHDALE TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20th January 2016

Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to the Rochdale Township Committee.

Rochdale Town Hall Works have progressed at the Town Hall over the last few months with the Council Chamber refurbishment allowing this fine room to be let to other users. The chairs were manufactured in the Borough by Sitraben at Stakehill, with the leather coming from JMT Crest in Rochdale.

The bistro will also be given a fresh new look over the next few months to help bring even greater custom.

The building has been used for an ever increasing range of functions, including a number of business events, charity balls, musical events, weddings, and events such as Alice in Wonderland, Christmas Market. Events coming up in the Town Hall next year include:

 Strictly Come Dancing – The Mayor’s Charity Ball  Treachery on the Titanic – Murder Mystery Dinner  The ever popular tea dance with organ recital  Wind in the Willows  The Trial of Jekyll and Hyde

Street Lighting PFI The street lighting replacement programme is now in its final year with Eon working to achieve the final milestone. All wards have had a percentage of columns replaced and will be subject to further replacement phases. To date 23,875 existing street lights and illuminated signs have been removed and 23,936 new energy efficient street lights and illuminated signs have been installed and commissioned.

Following issues raised around the reporting of faults, an all members email was sent out from Jonathan Hartley, clarifying the procedures and timescales for reporting.

Highways The latest stage of Townhead is now complete and fully open which means outstanding works in the Bellfield, Entwistle Road and Molesworth Road areas can now progress.

We intend to start improvement works on Lower Yorkshire Street and Baillie Street as soon as the river reopening works is complete.

A 2 year forward works programme will be presented to Township Committee in January 2016 for approval.

I continue to have regular meetings with Officers from Highways and Engineering Service, to receive updates on the works programme, and to raise individual concerns on behalf of all Rochdale Township Members. I am also the nominated Highways Champion for Rochdale Township and I will be meeting with the Champions from the other three Townships, along with the Cabinet Member for Housing and Environment, to discuss highways issues across the Borough. Community Safety

Town Centre Retail – shop lifting: During the summer a spike of shop lifting offences had been highlighted by several town centre stores, some being committed by opportunists and others by prolific offenders known to Police and Community Safety. In order to try and address this, meetings were held with GMP and stakeholders i.e. retailers and security staff from both Rochdale Exchange and the Wheatsheaf. Following initial discussions problems were identified and actions to address them included:  Consideration of high visibility screen messages to inform shoppers of current events and to remind them of personal safety issues.  High visibility PCSO patrols into the top 10 shops by PCSO’s.  PCSO’s visited all stores to verify their current security staffing levels and policies.

Referral to Sunrise re vulnerable young females In response to concerns raised about vulnerable young women in the town centre being harassed by males and being supplied with alcohol, the issue was escalated to the Sunrise Team.

Pub and Club Watch In the run up to Xmas Operation Elf involved GMP and Community Safety staff being operational during the period, dealing with issues around both the night-time/day-time economies. The use of the Community Safety CCTV van was essential.

Operation treacle has again taken place, which focuses on the safe operation of bonfires / fireworks within this period. Dealing with un-licenced firework retailers, encouraging the public to go to organised events. A mobile CCTV response to the Township Bonfire Events took place following the problems that developed last year at Cronkeyshaw Common.

Operation Elf took place over the Christmas Period. We operated out of the old library in the Wheatsheaf Centre giving out advice regarding Home Security / Personal Safety / safe storage of Christmas Presents at home. Items such as light timers and personal attack alarms were also on offer together with pictures of Rochdale’s most wanted. This ran from early December until early January.

Work on linking up all of the remote CCTV to the College Bank control room has taken place. Work is continuing with the memorial gardens link up.

The daily core business continues which predominately is dealing with ASB in the private rented sector. Recent complex cases have resulted in court appearances to secure evictions. One of the evictions also led to the perpetrator receiving a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO).

We have also completed an intense four week period (2 x 2 weeks) of Crucial Crew. This is delivered to year 6 pupils at Bury Bus Station in Partnership with other agencies, Metrolink, Child Protection, RBH, BTP, Road Safety, GMP. Over 1000 children / 60 schools attended. It is an event that teachers tell us forms an integral part of the school curriculum hence why they return year on year

Battle Streets A ceremony took place on Sunday 13th December to re-dedicate five streets in the Township that were named after WW1 battles. The event was popular with local residents and it received some really positive press coverage for the Township and for the Borough.

Rochdale Township & Area Forums The Township Team have been busy facilitating the second round of area forums. Issues raised so far include:

Balderstone and Kirkholt Community Meeting The Police updated the forum on Operation Strive which focuses on domestic violence. The forum was informed about the Kirkholt Circus event that was extremely well attended and received. There was information about continued development in Kirkholt and an update on the Kirkholt Millions project.

Bamford and Oakenrod Area Forum Residents discussed the need to prevent access to Bamford Green. It was agreed that Bird Beak Fencing, funded from the Ward Fund, be installed around the perimeter. There was a presentation from Healthwatch Rochdale, and issues raised in the open forum included blocked drains and an ongoing planning application for licensed premises.

Brimrod, Marland and Sudden Area Forum The forum discussed recent roadworks at the Roch Valley Way/Bury Road junction and the problems that had resulted from them. There were a number of concerns around fly-tipping and bins left out in one particular area. The Friends of Springfield Park gave an update.

Castleton Area Forum The Police PACT priorities were agreed at the meeting, and members were updated on progress with a number of derelict properties. There were discussions around a number of planning applications, and the forum agreed to fund a new grit bin from ward funds.

Central Rochdale Area Forum Residents from the Ward received a presentation on the Council’s savings proposals, the role and responsibilities of Healthwatch Rochdale, and the recently introduced recycling service in the Borough.

Concerns were raised about anti-social behaviour in the Ward, street lighting problems and the accidents that had happened recently and the Townhead Junction.

Healey Area Forum Officers responded to residents’ concerns following a number of traveller encampments during the Summer months. Work on the trench around the common was halted at the request of some residents. A number of schemes have been progressed following requests made at the forum, including a traffic survey on Syke Road, a speeding survey on Heights Lane and an investigation into the status of parking bays on the common.

Kingsway Area Forum In response to a number of queries in relation to existing traffic regulation orders, the forum approved the allocated of funds to pursue a single TRO for three separate junctions on Oldham Road. There was also a discussion about the lack of lighting on Witley Road which creates a community safety concern for Metrolink users, it is hoped that a solution has now been found.

Milkstone & Deeplish Area Forum Network Rail provided an outline of the upgrading work that is currently underway at Rochdale Station, and a representative from Rochdale Environmental Action Group informed the Forum of the work the group undertakes in the Ward. The Chair of the Forum explained that he would like to introduce a number of Working Groups to look at specific issues in the Ward – Environmental, Traffic Management, Anti-Social Behaviour and Health. Residents where encouraged to contact the Chair directly regarding this proposal.

The Director of Neighbourhoods and the Highway Services Manager also attended the meeting to inform residents of the remit of the newly formed Neighbourhoods Directorate and answer questions on highway issues within the Ward.

Norden Area Forum The forum received a presentation from Bury Archaeological Group. There were discussions about a number of planning matters, including the Rainshore Mill development and an application for a residential development on green belt land. There was also a discussion around the Village Plan and an update on the Village Green application.

Sparth Area Forum Residents received an update on the allocation of S106 monies and had discussions around Mandale Park improvements and fly-tipping concerns.

Spotland and Falinge Area Forum The Forum received presentations on:

1. Section 106 monies available within the Ward. This presentation also encouraged residents to suggest where these Section 106 contributions could be spent.

2. The process that currently exists within the borough to deal with unauthorised traveller encampments. The Forum where also informed that a great deal of work between the Council and GMP is currently ongoing to make this process more effective in dealing with unauthorised encampments. The Forum also received an update on the TBA site, and the Township Officer a petition was submitted in connection with concerns about the junction at Spotland Bridge.

Savings Proposals Officers from the Finance Team have been attending public meetings to inform around the Council’s financial position and to consult on the Savings Proposals 2016/17.

Councillor Shaun O’Neill Rochdale Township Committee 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 Committee ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

COMMUNITIES, REGENERATION AND ENVIRONMENT OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

COUNCIL - WEDNESDAY, 20th JANUARY 2016

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.

The Committee has now met on two occasions, on 29th October and 10th December 2015, both of which proved to be productive and interesting meetings.

29th October 2015

Performance Monitoring of Registered Housing Providers The Committee received a report which provided Members with an update on the performance of the Council’s Registered Provider Partners in 2014/15 across a range of initiatives and joint work through the Strategic Housing Partnership.

Food and Feed Plan 2015/16 The Committee considered a report which presented the Food and Feed Service Plan 2015/16, prior its submission to the Cabinet. The report identified variations from the 2014/15 Service Plan and future developments for the Service. The Committee commented on the format of the report which we felt was unclear and we noted that it was intended to use a more cohesive structure in future reports. We agreed that appropriate Officers work with the Chair and Vice Chair of the Committee and staff in the Governance and Committee Services Team to ensure that a revised template is in use for future presentations of this report.

Quarterly Performance Reporting The Committee received performance monitoring reports, for the second quarter 2015/16 at this meeting in respect of:  Rochdale Development Agency  Rochdale Borough Safer Communities Partnership

Directorate Plans The Committee considered progress reports detailing the performance of the Council’s former Economy and Environment Directorate and the Community Services function of the former Customers and Corporate Services Directorate, during the second quarter of 2015/16. In considering these reports we requested that the Council’s Performance Manager revise the reporting template for the submission of reports to future meetings of the Committee to reflect the revised directorate structure that has recently been implemented across the authority.

Rochdale Town Centre East Developments The Committee referred this matter to an informal session of the Committee’s membership in consultation with the Director of Economy. This meeting was subsequently held in November and we agreed that a further dialogue be established with the Director of Economy and his staff.

10th December 2015

Link4Life Performance Report The Committee scrutinised a report of the Rochdale Boroughwide Cultural Trust which provided information relating to the performance of the Trust, trading as Link4Life, during the first six months of 2015/16 (April - September 2015). The Committee asked that future Link4Life performance reports be submitted to meetings of the Committee on a quarterly rather than a six monthly basis and requested that the Link4Life Board re-examine its membership insofar as there was presently no representation on the Board from the Middleton Township area.

Street Lighting PFI Contract The Committee scrutinised a report which attempted to address concerns that had been raised by Members, at previous meetings of the Committee and the former Overview and Scrutiny Committee in relation to the performance and monitoring of the Street Lighting PFI project. In considering this report Members noted the improved performance in recent months.

Discretionary Crisis Fund The Committee considered a report which informed Members of the Discretionary Crisis Fund’s performance over the first six months of 2015/16 (April – September). The Committees requested that in future this report be submitted to the Committee on a quarterly rather than a six monthly basis and that an informal session of the Committee’s membership be convened to examine all aspects of the Discretionary Crisis Fund.

Gambling and Licensing Policies The Committee received updates on the Gambling and Licensing policies prior to their submission to the Cabinet and to the Council.

Rochdale Safer Communities Partnership The Committee considered a performance report in respect of the Rochdale Safer Communities Partnership in respect of the second quarter 2015/16 (July – September). In considering this report the Committee requested that further information clarifying measurements of crime and the protocols for reporting crime be included in future reports to the Committee; that the Cabinet be advised of this Committee’s concerns regarding the savings proposal CC103, noting that if this proposal was to be implemented as proposed it would have a detrimental effect on service provision and may even jeopardise the actual delivery of a community safety function and that the appropriate body of the Council or even the Rochdale Safer Communities Partnership itself examine the Partnership’s membership insofar as there was presently no representation on the Partnership from the Middleton Township area.

Work Programme 2015/16 The Committee considered its Work Programme for 2015/16 requesting that: in future performance report submitted by Rochdale Boroughwide Housing be presented on a quarterly rather than six monthly basis; necessary arrangements be made for an informal joint meeting comprising Members of the Audit and Governance Committee and of the Council’s three Overview and Scrutiny Committees to discuss issues appertaining to the devolution of powers to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority; and that the Director of Neighbourhoods be requested to examine issues relating to the Courier Service for the delivery of Councillor’s mail.

General Issues

With three new Overview and Scrutiny Committees established there has been an inevitable “settling in” period. In moving forward we have recently held an initial co- ordinating meeting of the Chairs and Vice Chairs. We are trying to develop a structure of continuous Overview and Scrutiny where the meeting acts more for communication and ratification, while scrutiny occurs on an ongoing basis throughout the year. A robust schedule of work has been developed and following advice from the Peer Group challenge we are concentrating on high risk areas of the Council’s business. Issues that are associated with Rochdale Town Centre East have been reviewed and will continue to be evaluated. Reporting and communication provide an ongoing challenge but nonetheless in a business the size of Rochdale BC we are trying, with the support of the ICT Service, to develop an integrated reporting system with relevant KPI's , Gantt charts and RAG rated charts which will help to improve communication, efficiency and therefore scrutiny. This process should help in the long term and will be part of our focus for the first quarter of 2016.

Councillor Neil Butterworth – Chair - 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. ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

HEALTH SCHOOLS AND CARE OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

COUNCIL - WEDNESDAY, 20th JANUARY 2016

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.

Since my last report to Council in July the Committee has met on two occasions - 3rd November 2015 and on 13th January 2016.

3rd November 2016

Trust Presentations We welcomed a representative of Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust to the meeting to provide a presentation which detailed the community based services provided by the Trust within and without the Borough.

The main issues currently being provided by the Trust included the development of a ‘memorandum of understanding’ between the Trust, the Council and the CCG, which aimed to develop the future operations of the Community Mental Health Team. Other major issues reported were the development of ‘holistic assessments and interventions’ which focussed on providing short-term interventions, active care co-ordination which looked to help people with longer term care requirements. The configuration of services to work out long-term support which was linked to various partner agencies such as the Council and the CCG and the development of a recovery college which looked to help people recuperating from mental illnesses.

Borough Locality Plan The Committee received a presentation from the Chief Officer of the Clinical Commissioning Group which outlined the stages to be followed in the development of the Locality Plan in the lead-up to the devolution of health and social care responsibility for Greater Manchester to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority in 2017. It had been proposed that initial plans be submitted to the Council’s Health and Wellbeing Board and to the CCG’s Board in December 2015.

In considering this report it was noted that Lesley Mort, the CCG’s Chief Officer reported that was due to retire on 31st December 2015 and was to be replaced by Mr Simon Wootton. I would, on behalf of the Committee, like to express my appreciation for all the work that Lesley has done over the years and I wish her a long and happy retirement. I also look forward to working with Simon Wooton and I am sure he will be attending meetings of the Committee in the future.

Middleton Walk-in Centre This item was on the agenda following concerns that had been expressed at reports that the Middleton’s NHS Walk-in Centre was programmed to close, with a loss of a range of services, including some that are provided by GP’s for residents of Middleton. These concerns arose from a recent consultation exercise undertaken by the CCG in relation to the rationalisation of Alternative Primary Medical Services which was the subject of a report to the October meeting of the Committee.

Members expressed concerns about this matter such that if Walk-in Centres were to close it would put greater pressure on Accident and Emergency Units and Urgent Care Centres at hospitals. Members requested that the CCG be requested to attend an informal session with Members of this Committee to discuss the issues around the future operation of Walk-in Centres in more detail and if necessary the CCG also be requested to submit a report on this matter to a future meeting of this Committee.

Integrated Commissioning The Committee received that advised Members of work that was taking place to progress agreed work to develop the integrated commissioning programme between Rochdale Council and NHS HMR Clinical Commissioning Group. Approvals have been granted by the Council’s Cabinet and by the HMR CCG Governing Body at meetings held in October 2015 for the continuation of work to develop integrated commissioning arrangements between the Council and the CCG.

Directorate Plans 2015/16 – Quarter Two The Committee scrutinised a report that presented details of progress in the second quarter 2015/2016 (July – September) towards targets contained in the Adult Care, Children’s Services and the Public Health Directorate Plans 2015/2016.

Quality Assurance Within Adult Care The Committee considered a report which outlined the role of Quality Assurance within Adult Services and also work that was being undertaken jointly with CQC. Measuring the impact of service delivery was crucial to achieving improved outcomes for users of Adult Care services.

Social Care Complaints The Committee received a report that provided us with a summary of Adult and Children’s Social Care complaints received during the second quarter 2015/2016 (July – September).

Inspired Spaces The Committee scrutinised a report of the Director of Children’s Services which presented the fourth quarterly report 2014/2015 (January – March) and the first quarterly report 2015- 16 (April – June) from inspiredspaces, Rochdale’s Local Education Partnership (LEP).

In considering this report the Committee sought clarification on the compilation of statistics regarding accidents and incidents, information regarding the numbers of employment opportunities and apprenticeships that were available for the Borough’s young people. The Committee expressed the view that the improving standards of school buildings would lead to increased educational attainment, especially in terms of GCSE/A level examination results. Members asked that future reports include comparative data from other local authorities in Greater Manchester regarding the creation of employment opportunities.

School re-organisation proposals The Committee were consulted on a report regarding a proposal to discontinue South Street Nursery School, Rochdale with effect from 31st August 2016 and to make a prescribed alteration to Heybrook CP School, Rochdale, to change the age range from from 5 - 11 to 2 - 11, by establishing a Nursery Class with effect from 1st September 2016. The Committee were informed that the report had already been considered by the Cabinet on 2nd November 2015 which had approved the commencement of a four week consultation exercise on the proposals which would include consideration by this Committee and Rochdale Township Committee.

Extra reception Class Places The Committee considered a report which acknowledged that there was a need to keep under review the need for extra Reception class places in each of the Council’s Township areas from September 2016 to September 2018. The Cabinet, at its meeting on 5th October 2015, had considered an update on the current admission position for September 2015 and considered proposals to address the need for any further extra Reception Class places to ensure there are sufficient primary school places across the Borough for the period 2016/17 up to and including the school year 2018/19

In considering this report Members of the Committee requested that they receive a presentation, in the future, regarding the processes and procedures for educational placements and allocations.

13th January 2016

This meeting will be held after the agenda for this Council meeting has been published. At the meeting we are due to receive: a presentation on services provided for residents of the Borough by Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust; consideration of various issues relating to the Children’s Social Care Service including the Getting to Good Board, the Sunrise Team’s annual report, the Youth Justice Plan 2015/16 (for Rochdale and Bury) and the Council’s Annual Adoption Report 2014/15; the healthy Lifestyles Strategy 2015 – 2018; an update on the Better Care Fund and a report on the Borough’s Educational Outcomes. I will, if necessary, provide Members with further details at the Council meeting.

General Issues

At the last meeting of Council, members nominated me to be the lead member on the GMCA/AGMA Scrutiny Pool. The way the Scrutiny Pool operates is slowly developing as the recommendations of a review undertaken by North West Employers and accepted by both the Combined Authority and the Scrutiny Pool are implemented. Pool members are becoming more involved with setting the work programme, Portfolio Leaders and Lead Chief Executives are attending our meetings to present items, and we are looking to develop working arrangements beyond the formal Pool meetings.

Councillor Sara Rowbotham - Chair, 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. ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE CHAIR’S REPORT TO THE COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE CHAIR OF THE CORPORATE OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20th JANUARY 2016

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 is in respect of three meetings of the Committee, the first on the 14th October 2015 was shortly before the last meeting of the full Council and those on the 11th November and 16th December 2015 since that meeting.

At each of these meetings the workload has been manageable and the meetings timely. As a result Members considered there was no need to change the meeting times as had been proposed to address long meetings experienced by our colleagues in the other O & S Committees.

14th October 2015

In addition to the routine items the following were considered:-

 Corporate priority setting process 2016–19 and the need to consult as widely as possible.  Local Council Tax Support Scheme 2016/17 where it was not proposed to make any changes for the forthcoming years. Members however raised a number of issues regarding the increase in working age claims, the effect of Universal Credit and how pupil premium would be calculated in light of proposals with respect to free school meals.  Corporate Health Staffing Indicators – where Members noted with pleasure that the current figures were at the lowest level for a number of years. Members also sought clarification of the arrangements for dealing with stress, depression and related items detailed in the report.

11th November 2015

The Chief Executive updated Members on the new management arrangements and the respective responsibilities of the Executive Directors and the proposals relating to the appointment of Assistant Directors.

 2nd quarter corporate complaints – where an appendix to the report provided a commentary relating to complaints and compliments and an example of how one individual’s complaint was handled from start to finish. Members felt the Council did not adequately promote the many compliments it received.  Members requested future reports on the Council’s Policy for the management of Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam on Council owned land and also the implementation of revised regulations for the upkeep of graves in the cemeteries.  Number One Riverside – Members had requested a report on the maintenance arrangements for the new Council building and whether the savings (£1.068m per annum) were being achieved and had been given the assurance that it was.  Quarter 2 Directorate Plans updates were noted.  Proposed discretionary fees and charges 2016-17 were received prior to consultation. Members requested that Highways Charge reference R0647 in respect of Traffic Regulation Orders for Temporary carnivals, fetes, similar events not be applied to charities and not for profit organisations arranging such events. 16th December 2015

 Playing fields strategy – had been considered at the previous meeting but in reviewing the minutes Members felt insufficient stress had been placed on the importance of Athletics when developing the Borough’s strategy and requested the Director of Neighbourhoods to report the Committee’s view to Cabinet.  Insurance Claims Numbers – at a previous meeting Members had noted the significant increase in the number of claims as a result of defective roadways and had requested further information. A verbal update advised of the revised inspection arrangements which would hopefully enable a greater repudiation rate. A further report in Autumn 2016 was requested.  Savings Programme 2016/17 and 2017/18 – this was the main item of discussion and the Chairs and Vice-Chairs of the other O & S Committees had been invited to attend. The Chief Executive and Directors/Assistant Directors from each of the Council’s six Directorates outlined the proposals in considerable detail. I would particularly thank Councillor Rowbotham for her input into the process and the contribution she made to the discussion.  Members raised a number of issues and answers which would be forwarded from officers in due course.

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.

Councillor Robert Clegg Chair, Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE GREATER MANCHESTER WASTE DISPOSAL AUTHORITY

TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON 20th JANUARY 2016

Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority.

Last Authority meeting if applicable At the Authority meeting on 11th December 2015 the Authority received a presentation from the Director of Environment at AGMA, which updated the Authority on the developing Greater Manchester Climate Change and Low Emissions Implementation Plan and approved a formal response. The main discussions surrounded the Comprehensive Spending Review 2015 and Budget 2016/17 and Beyond report, where Members were updated about the on-going work being undertaken to deliver a robust budget for 2016/17 within the context of a zero percent increase in the Levy. Early consideration was being given to the options that were available to reduce the burden of the Levy on Districts for future years. Contract Update Contract performance in 2014/15 was affected by delays at the Runcorn Thermal Power Station (TPS) and defects at the Mechanical and Biological Treatment (MBT) facilities. The landfill diversion achieved in 2014/15 was 71.74% against a target of 74.83%. Whilst below target, this represents a significant improvement in performance from the beginning of the year. All sites are now through the initial construction phase and work is now on-going to ensure any snagging issues and repairs are completed and hitting the target for 2015/16 of 81.3% diversion from landfill. The Solar Farm at Salford Road is now complete and will produce 2,220 MWh energy yield per annum (pa). It consists of 8,400 solar panels on a 2.8 ha site saving over 600 tonnes of carbon and producing enough power to provide energy for c. 600 homes. Communications Update The LIFE+ Up & Forward Project submitted its final report to the European Commission in October 2015. Overall results support our initial premise that innovative community led activity is critical to improving recycling within urban areas of Greater Manchester. Of the campaigns the most successful were those under the Household theme; in particular, the Recycling Rewards ‘Golden Ticket’ campaign. Case studies and reports are now available on the Up & Forward Project website. The key learnings, methodology and positive outcomes from the LIFE+ Up & Forward Project have been taken forward and used as good practice in the GMWDA communications plan for 2015/16. Campaign work to improve recycling through engaging and working with the community is now continuing with Recycle for Greater Manchester (R4GM). The 1-year plan aims to improve recycling in mid-performing areas through targeted community campaigns, as opposed to big- picture messages (as in previous years). In Rochdale, a campaign to support the new food waste service will commence in the New Year. Planning is currently underway and will focus on increasing the uptake of food waste recycling through face to face contact via door step engagement in targeted areas. R4GM are continuing to promote recycling through educational assemblies at schools, community events and by holding open days at Greater Manchester waste and recycling sites for the public.

Targets Greater Manchester’s recycling & composting rate for Contract Waste was 41.04% in 2014/15. The target for 2015/16 is 43%. The partnership is making significant progress and with everyone’s help we are set to reach 50% by 2016/17.

Rochdale’s percentage of household waste sent for Re-use, Recycling or Composting for 2014/15 was 33.4%. Work is still needed to get Rochdale’s residents to become accurate recyclers.

Councillor Mohammed Zaman Members of the Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority

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 Grater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority. ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE REPRESENTATIVE TO THE TRANSPORT FOR GREATER MANCHESTER COMMITTEE TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON 20TH JANUARY 2016

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.

Greater Manchester Transport Strategy 2040: Our Vision

The TfGM Committee in November 2015 received details of feedback arising from the July- October 2015 consultation on ‘Greater Manchester Transport Strategy 2040: Our Vision’, the starting point in the development of a new long term transport strategy for Greater Manchester. The consultation was led by TfGM on behalf of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership (GMLEP).

Due to the high-level and long-term nature of the 2040 Vision, engagement with some groups was challenging, particularly in seeking the views of the public who may be more interested in later stages of the strategy, which define more tangible interventions and schemes. The approach to consultation therefore sought to make use of a variety of different communication channels to engage with as wide an audience as possible within the constraints of available financial resources.

Consultation was conducted with government agencies, neighbouring authorities, transport operators, universities, media, local businesses and community groups. There were excellent levels of engagement on social media and press coverage items, including in the Manchester Evening News and airtime on BBC Radio Manchester. 800 copies of the Vision were printed, including 100 for libraries and other public buildings, with the remainder distributed to local politicians, district officers and stakeholders to support engagement activity through the 12-week period. A Greater Manchester-wide poster campaign saw key messages placed across TfGM-owned assets at bus stops, rail stations and Metrolink stations. TfGM officers attended a wide range of stakeholder groups and meetings, including with older people’s groups, disability groups, the Low Carbon Hub, business groups, the Greater Manchester Public Health Network, and neighbouring authorities. Locally, presentations were also given to Cabinet members and the Communities, Regeneration and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Further engagement is underway with stakeholders to ensure momentum is maintained on the project. This also includes consulting with statutory environmental consultees regarding the Integrated Assessment work required to support the 2040 Strategy. It is intended to bring forward a fuller draft 2040 strategy for consideration by GMCA in early 2016 to be followed by a second stage, more intensive and widespread consultation exercise in advance of a final determination of the strategy later in 2016.

Smart Ticketing

I reported to the last meeting of the Council that TFGM had terminated the contract with Atos for the provision of a smart ticketing system, and that TfGM was to develop a smart ticketing system with alternative providers and to establish alternative arrangements for the existing English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) smart ticketing on Metrolink. With effect from 9th November 2015 passengers travelling by Metrolink have been able to cut out the queues and travel smarter with the launch of the new free ‘get me there’ ticketing app enabling customers with Apple or Android smart phones to buy a range of Metrolink travelcards anywhere and anytime before they board the tram – meaning they won’t have to queue at a ticket machine. Initially, the app offers travelcards for one day, a weekend or seven days’ travel on Metrolink and its introduction marks a further step on the roll-out of ‘get me there’. Following the launch TfGM will continue to monitor take-up and gauge customer feedback to inform further product development.

The Bus Network

As I prepare my report the agenda for the Bus Networks and TfGM Services Sub- Committee has been published. We are to consider a report on performance of the bus network. Highlighted points for our consideration are that the results for 2015/16 mid-year continue to demonstrate the high performance levels for reliability (98.2%) and mid-point punctuality (78.0%) sustained in recent years. Start point punctuality has remained stable, with performance observed at 89.1%. TfGM is working in partnership with all key stakeholders to ensure that disruptions caused by the various infrastructure improvement works are efficiently managed.

With regard to bus shelters, shelters are due to be installed at Windermere Road/Burnside Crescent, Middleton and at Station Road/Milkstone Road, Rochdale in February, with further provision at Pilsworth Road, Heywood; Ramsden Road, Rochdale; and a further site on Windermere Road all under consideration.

With regard to bus services, the only current local consideration relates to a decision of Lancashire County Council's (LCC) Cabinet to withdraw subsidies from all local bus services within Lancashire from 2nd April 2016. This decision affects all supported cross boundary bus services between TfGM and Lancashire to which LCC currently contribute. TfGM will be assessing the impact of the decision, which locally affects evening and Sunday services on the 447 and the Rochdale Evening Local Link, to determine the implication of the reduced funding available.

Floods

I am sure reference will have been made during the Council meeting to the flooding that occurred within the Borough on Boxing Day which affected TfGM assets at Rochdale Interchange.

I am sure that the thanks of the Council will go to staff from TfGM, operators and contractors who ensured a speedy return to service of the Rochdale Bus Station and the Metrolink terminus.

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 Transport for Greater Manchester Committee ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE GREATER MANCHESTER FIRE AND RESCUE AUTHORITY

TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON 20th JAUARY 2016

Thank you Mr. Mayor for the opportunity to report to the Council the latest developments on various matters relating to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority.

Quarter 3 update report Rochdale Borough 2015/16 Indicator Total at Total at % % end of Q3 end of Q3 difference difference 2014/15 2015/16 to to target 2014/15 All fires 800 849 6% 5%

Accidental Dwelling Fires 117 129 9% 3%

Non Domestic Fires 43 49 12% 4%

% of working smoke alarms in 78.63 79.07 1.37% properties where a fire occurred Deliberate Fires 542 590 8% 6%

Deliberate Primary Fires 123 124 1% 11%

Deliberate Secondary Fires 419 466 10% 10%

Number of Injuries from fire 12 10 20% 25%

False Alarms due to apparatus 235 241 2% 5%

Q3 was a really positive quarter with the only concern being accidental dwelling fires where we exceeded our target of 41 by 4 (45). The introduction of the new safe and well visits will mean that we do not undertake as many visits to vulnerable people in their homes and there is a potential impact in arise in low level fires. One important aspect here is that we have met our target in terms of number of people injured by fire. So an increase in low level fires is more acceptable so long as people aren’t getting injured.

The reduction in deliberate secondary fires is pleasing as this was a concern for us earlier in the year, the push for operational crews to refer through to environmental services where they see instances of fly tipping and Dee Alletson’ s assistance in pushing this to other staff in the community looks to be slowly working. The only other area of note was the 24hr period on Boxing Day and into the 27th when 80 reports of flooding were made to control. Community Safety Manager Update Quarter 3– 2015/16 (October, November, December 2015)

Prevention Partnership Update These are the partnerships that are being reviewed, or developed in Rochdale during Q3/Q4 2015.  Pennine Care Mental Health  Fall Prevention in Bury, Oldham and Rochdale  Housing Providers (Social Landlords)  PSR hubs across Bury, Oldham and Rochdale (BOR) still being developed.  Smoke free Services  Adult Social Care  Age UK  Drug and Alcohol Services  Domestic Abuse “Get up and Go” Project – Planned escapes.  Winter Pilot Project 65+  Pharmacists partnership work  Information Sharing Protocols

Fire Safety in the Home Presentations

Rochdale FSITH talk to vulnerable clients in Rochdale of a partner agency namely Rochdale Circle

Presentations regards Prevention Priorities to Senior Staff / Managers in the following agencies have taken place: Fire Authority Update Rochdale Borough Housing-Winter Warm project Rochdale Circle-Winter Warm Project Tobacco Alliance-(Smoke free Partnership) Pharmacist mtg-Ian Short-Winter Warm Project Rochdale Housing Initiative-Draft Agreement

Events and Campaigns: Drive safe Middleton Arena. Road safety initiative on 26/10/15 Rod and Ruby at Rochdale fire station with 12 young people from, RCT youth support project, held at Rochdale fire station community room Driving / road safety event at Mathew Moss high school with year 11 students and crews at Rochdale Rod and Ruby 4/11/15 National road safety week, attended Morrisons Rochdale with driving simulator to promote this safety week 20/11/15 Meadows school Road safety initiative/ workshops to pupils of meadows school all are involved in some form of ASB /TWOC’ing and have been excluded from mainstream schools 27/11/15

Treacle Campaign. Rochdale. 9 secondary Schools. 2100 Students.

Rochdale Interfaith week Ruby our apprentice at BOR has formed relationships in Rochdale during interfaith week to work alongside ESOL students at Deeplish and Sparth Community Centre. There have been 2 x sessions that have taken place teaching people who have just come to England the basics on Fire safety in the Home in a way which is understood for our clients who’s English at the moment isn’t so great. These appeared in Big Red and we are also received praise from the community centre regarding the training and the positive effect this had on the community. We also have 2 future dates planned to teach the 3 in 1 package to young drivers again these young people have just come to the UK so GMFRS will be teaching the very basics of safe driving. Both community centres want to work with us in the future.

Older Persons Day Our Rochdale team and sessional worker went to an event organised by one of our partner agencies Rochdale Circle. The event was attended by many older vulnerable people within the local community and again there were various agencies there for older persons to access different services

Volunteers: In Rochdale and we are due to start partnership working on the Dark Night project were we will work with GMP every week until the end of February.

We are also working in a shop in Rochdale with GMP and other partner agencies every Saturday and Sunday, this is well staffed from GMFRS every weekend.

Recruitment 16 people have applied for BOR from our recent campaign.

Training: Safe and well Training has taken place for all CSA’s apprentice and sessional workers. Each member of the team has had 8 days each safe and well training. CSTL Kearney to attend a three day training event in January for First aid at work.

Prevention Events being planned for Q4: Increased safe and well visits by the team in BOR starting second week in Jan from 2 a day per CSA to 3 a day. 1 in 3 driving presentation to Sparth Community Centre and Deeplish to ESOL students- Apprentice CSA attending

Health & Well Being Board The Borough Manager has made a request, via Councillor Shaun O’Neill, for some exposure at the Rochdale Health & Well Being Board. This would afford GMFRS an opportunity to demonstrate their ongoing work in the community, more specifically Safe and Well visits and supporting Public Health England.

Change to Management Structure Following a review of middle managers there has been a change to the role of Rochdale Borough Manager from Group Manager Ian Bailey to Group Manager Jon Aspinall. The GMFRS Authority would wish to convey their thanks to Ian for his service to the community of Rochdale and wish him well for the future.

Councillor Shaun O’Neill Councillor Amna Mir

Members of the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority

Thank you Madam Mayor, I will be pleased to answer any questions from Members of the Council about these or any other matter relating to the Grater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority ROCHDALE BOROUGH COUNCIL

REPORT OF THE LEAD MEMBER FOR THE ARMED/RESERVED FORCES TO THE MEETING OF THE COUNCIL ON WEDNESDAY, 20th JANUARY 2016 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.

Rochdale Battle Streets A service was held on Sunday 13th December 2015 to re-dedicate The Rochdale Battle Streets. Mons Avenue, Falkland Avenue, Jutland Avenue, Marne Crescent and Verdun Crescent were re-dedicated as part of an ongoing programme to help ensure future generations understand about sacrifices made during past conflicts. Impressive signs were made by Royal British Legion Industries that were welcomed by residents, an information board was installed that gives information on each of the Battles that the streets were named after, and a Q code is used on the board that links to a video with actor Bill Ward providing the narrative.

Gulf War 25 Lest We Forget: Borough to remember the Gulf War A ceremony to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the end of the Gulf War will be held in Rochdale next year. A remembrance service will be held on Friday 26 February at 5pm at Rochdale Cenotaph. The service will mark the 25th Anniversary of the war and Operation Granby, the name given to British military operations during the conflict. 47 soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice during the conflict; two of these soldiers come from the Borough.

Rochdale Council bid to host the London Poppies Unfortunately Rochdale was unsuccessful in its bid to host the Weeping Window. 14-18 Now said they were enormously struck by the level of interest shown from organisations all over the country in bidding for one of the very limited opportunities to present the sculpture next year. We are continuing to look at future projects.

Buersil and Balderstone War Memorial Buersil and Balderstone War Memorial, Junction of Platting Lane and Oldham Road, Buersil, Rochdale has been awarded Listed Building Status. The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport has decided to add Buersil and Balderstone War Memorial to the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. It is now listed at Grade II.

Listed status for Rochdale Cenotaph Having considered our recommendation, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport has decided to amend the entry for Rochdale Cenotaph on the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. The building is now listed at Grade I.

Military Covenant Funding Rochdale Hornets Foundation has signed the Corporate Covenant. This is great news as it will open many doors for the Armed Forces Family. The Foundation, in partnership with Link4Life and Rochdale Council, are developing a Rochdale Hornets Wheelchair Rugby team. This is for abled and disabled participants and geared toward veterans and the wider community. It is hoped that by the end of 2016 the team will join a league and by the end of 2017 the team will be self-managed under the Rochdale Hornets brand and be an integral part of the club.

Cllr Alan McCarthy Lead Member for the Armed Forces Thank you 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. NOTICE OF THE DECISIONS AGREED AT THE GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY MEETING HELD ON FRIDAY 30 OCTOBER 2015 AT BURY TOWN HALL

GM INTERIM MAYOR Tony Lloyd (in the Chair)

BOLTON COUNCIL Councillor Cliff Morris

BURY COUNCIL Councillor Mike Connolly

MANCHESTER CC Councillor Richard Leese

OLDHAM COUNCIL Councillor Jean Stretton

ROCHDALE MBC Councillor Peter Williams

SALFORD CC Councillor David Lancaster

STOCKPORT MBC Councillor Sue Derbyshire

TAMESIDE MBC Councillor Kieran Quinn

TRAFFORD COUNCIL Councillor Sean Anstee

WIGAN COUNCIL Councillor Peter Smith

JOINT BOARDS AND OTHER MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE

GMFRA Councillor Tommy Judge GMWDA Councillor Nigel Murphy TfGMC Councillor Andrew Fender

OFFICERS IN ATTENDANCE

Margaret Asquith Bolton Council Mike Owen Bury Council Carolyn Wilkins Oldham Council Howard Bernstein Manchester CC Steve Rumbelow Rochdale MBC Jim Taylor Salford CC Eamonn Boylan Stockport MBC Steven Pleasant Tameside MBC Theresa Grant Trafford Council Alison McKenzie Folan Wigan Council Peter O’Reilly GM Fire & Rescue Ian Hopkins GMP John Bland GM Waste Disposal Authority Simon Nokes New Economy Adam Allen Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner Jon Lamonte TfGM

1 Liz Treacy GMCA Monitoring Officer Richard Paver GMCA Treasurer Andrew Lightfoot GM Public Service Reform Julie Connor ) Greater Manchester Sylvia Welsh ) Integrated Support Team Kerry Bond )

138/15 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of David Acton (GMFRA), Richard Farnell (Rochdale), Donna Hall (Wigan), Paul Najsarek (Bolton), Cath Piddington (GMWDA) and Ian Stewart (Salford).

139/15 CHAIR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS AND URGENT BUSINESS

There were no Chair’s announcements.

140/15 DECLARATIONS OF INTERESTS

Councillor Leese declared a prejudicial interest in item 9, Greater Manchester Investment Framework and Conditional Project Approval, as a Director of Manchester Ship Canal Company and left the room during discussion of this item.

141/15 MINUTES OF THE GMCA MEETING HELD ON 25 SEPTEMBER 2015

The minutes of the GMCA meeting held on 25 September were submitted for consideration.

RESOLVED/-

To approve the minutes of the GMCA meeting held on 25 September 2015.

142/15 FORWARD PLAN OF STRATEGIC DECISIONS OF GMCA

Consideration was given to a report of Julie Connor, Head of the Greater Manchester Integrated Support Team, which set out a Forward Plan of those strategic decisions to be considered by GMCA over the next four months.

RESOLVED/-

To note the Forward Plan of Strategic Decisions as set out in the report.

143/15 CITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT DEVOLUTION BILL UPDATE

Liz Treacy, GMCA Monitoring Officer, updated members on the progress of the Cities and Devolution Bill and outlined subsequent stages. The second day of committee would now be on 17 November 2015.

2 Members reaffirmed the GMCA’s position that adoption of an elected mayor was always contingent on Greater Manchester receiving devolved powers in relation to transport powers as outlined in the Devolution Agreement.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the progress on the Bill and that a further report will be provided when the Bill has completed its passage through Parliament. 2. That officers be requested to seek assurances from Government in relation to the devolution of transport powers in line with the signed Devolution Agreement.

144/15 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE UPDATE 2015/16

Richard Paver, GMCA Treasurer, presented an update report in relation to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority 2015/16 capital expenditure programme.

RESOLVED/-

1. To approve the revisions to the capital budget as set out in appendix A and detailed within the report. 2. To note the actual expenditure as at August 2015 and the current 2015/16 forecast compared to the revised 2015/16 capital budget. 3. To approve the addition of the Cycle City Ambition Grant (CCAG) 2 into the capital programme; and 4. To approve the virement of £1.2 million of Growth Deal funding for the Great Ancoats Street scheme to the Hyde Road scheme as detailed in paragraph 5.2 145/15 GREATER MANCHESTER ROAD ACTIVITY PERMIT SCHEME (GMRAPS): YEAR 2 FURTHER PROGRESS

Jon Lamonte, Chief Executive, TfGM, provided an update of the operation and financial performance of GMRAPS performance halfway through its third year.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the operational update.

2. To approve the introduction of the proposed Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), as contained in the statutory permit guidance document, when the scheme is next varied.

3. To approve the change in the rate of set-up cost amortisation from the current rate of five years to the originally agreed basis of over the first three years of scheme operation.

4. To approve the implementation of a Key Route Network (KRN) Local Authority Allowable Cost Reimbursement rate, from April 2016, the basis of which has been agreed with Local Authority representatives.

3 5. To approve the implementation of updated non-KRN Local Authority Allowable Cost Reimbursement rates, from April 2016.

146/15 GREATER MANCHESTER INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK AND CONDITIONAL PROJECT APPROVAL

Eamonn Boylan, Chief Executive, Stockport MBC, introduced a report seeking approval for a Growing Places loan to fund infrastructure works at Port Salford, and recycled Regional Growth Fund loans to B&H Precision Tools and RealityMine. Further details of the projects are included as a more detailed report, considered in the confidential part of the agenda due to the information relating to the business affairs of the applicants.

RESOLVED/-

1. To agree that the project funding applications by Port Salford Holdings Limited, a subsidiary of the Peel Group, (loan of £4,600,000), B&H Precision Tools (loan of £550k) and RealityMine Phase 2 (loan of £1,250,000) be given conditional approval and progress to due diligence.

2. To delegate authority to the Combined Authority Treasurer and Combined Authority 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 1) above.

147/15 EXCLUSION OF PRESS AND PUBLIC

RESOLVED/-

That, under section 100 (A)(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 the press and public should be excluded from the meeting for the following item of business on the grounds that this involves the likely disclosure of exempt information, as set out in paragraph 3, Part 1, Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 and that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

148/15 GREATER MANCHESTER INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK AND CONDITIONAL PROJECT APPROVAL

Consideration was given to a report providing further detail on the funding application from Port Salford Holdings Limited for £4,600,000, B&H Precision Tooling for £550,000 and RealityMine Phase 2 for £1,250,000.

RESOLVED/-

To note the contents of the report.

4 NOTICE OF THE DECISIONS AGREED AT THE GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY MEETING HELD ON FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2015 AT TRAFFORD TOWN HALL

GM INTERIM MAYOR Tony Lloyd (in the Chair)

BOLTON COUNCIL Councillor Cliff Morris

BURY COUNCIL Councillor Mike Connolly

MANCHESTER CC Councillor Richard Leese

OLDHAM COUNCIL Councillor Jean Stretton

ROCHDALE MBC Councillor Peter Williams

SALFORD CC Ian Stewart

STOCKPORT MBC Councillor Sue Derbyshire

TAMESIDE MBC Councillor Kieran Quinn

TRAFFORD COUNCIL Councillor Sean Anstee

WIGAN COUNCIL Councillor Peter Smith

JOINT BOARDS AND OTHER MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE

GMFRA Councillor David Acton GMFRA Councillor John Bell GMWDA Councillor Nigel Murphy TfGMC Councillor Andrew Fender

OFFICERS IN ATTENDANCE

Keith Davies Bolton Council Mike Owen Bury Council Howard Bernstein Manchester CC Carolyn Wilkins Oldham Council Steve Rumbelow Rochdale MBC Jim Taylor Salford CC Eamonn Boylan Stockport MBC Steven Pleasant Tameside MBC Theresa Grant Trafford Council Donna Hall Wigan Council Ian Hopkins GMP Andrew Lightfoot GM Director of Public Service Reform Mark Hughes Manchester Growth Company Simon Nokes New Economy Adam Allen Office of the Interim Mayor and Police & Clare Regan Crime Commissioner Steve Warrener TfGM Dave Newton TfGM 1

Liz Treacy GMCA Monitoring Officer Richard Paver GMCA Treasurer Julie Connor ) Greater Manchester Sylvia Welsh ) Integrated Support Team Kerry Bond ) Rebecca Heron )

149/15 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of Jim McMahon (Oldham), Richard Farnell (Rochdale), Margaret Asquith (Bolton), Peter O’Reilly (GMFRA), Cath Piddington (GMWDA), Jon Lamonte (TfGM).

150/15 CHAIR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS AND URGENT BUSINESS

The Chair welcomed Ian Hopkins, Chief Constable, GMP to the meeting and informed members that Paul Najsarek, Chief Executive, Bolton Council had left the authority and Margaret Asquith had been appointed as Interim Chief Executive pending the appointment of a new Chief Executive.

On behalf of the GMCA, Tony Lloyd thanked Peter Fahy and Paul Najsarek for their work and commitment to Greater Manchester and wished them well for the future, advising that he would write a letter of thanks to both.

151/15 DECLARATIONS OF INTERESTS

There were no declarations of interests made in respect of any item on the agenda.

152/15 MINUTES OF THE GMCA MEETING HELD ON 30 OCTOBER 2015

The minutes of the GMCA meeting held on 30 October were submitted for consideration.

RESOLVED/-

To approve the minutes of the GMCA meeting held on 30 October 2015.

153/15 FORWARD PLAN OF STRATEGIC DECISIONS OF GMCA

RESOLVED/-

To note the Forward Plan of Strategic Decisions as set out in the report.

154/15 TRANSPORT FOR GREATER MANCHESTER COMMITTEE HELD ON 13 NOVEMBER 2015

Members were assured that work is underway on developing and progressing an Integrated Smart Ticketing system for implementation across Greater Manchester.

The meeting was advised that Transport for the North is also looking to develop Northern Smart Ticketing and it was important that the work undertaken by Greater Manchester aligns with this.

RESOLVED/-

To note the minutes of the meeting held on 13 November 2015.

155/15 GREATER MANCHESTER LOCAL ENTERPRISE PARTNERSHIP BOARD HELD ON 12 NOVEMBER 2015

RESOLVED/-

To note the minutes of the meeting held on 12 November 2015.

156/15 GMCA QUARTERLY COMMUNICATIONS UPDATE

Tony Lloyd and Carolyn Wilkins presented a report providing a quarterly update on current and planned GMCA communications and engagement activity.

Members welcomed the report and the steps being undertaken to ensure the GMCA works in an open and transparent way. Today is the first time that the GMCA and AGMA Executive Board meetings have been live streamed and it was suggested that officers should review live streaming facilities across the Greater Manchester venues for future GMCA meetings, with a view to establishing consistency of standards.

Members also commented and welcomed on the new improved website, acknowledging that it will need to continually evolve.

RESOLVED/-

To note progress and upcoming activity and provide feedback.

157/15 SPENDING REVIEW ANNOUNCEMENT

Richard Leese presented a report providing an overview of the additional freedoms and flexibilities awarded to Greater Manchester as part of a further Devolution Agreement which were publicised as part of the Spending Review announcement made on 25 November 2015.

Members were advised that negotiations with Government have been continuous since signing the Devolution Agreement in November 2014, with further work to be undertaken with BIS around Business Support Programmes, specifically for Greater Manchester. A further paper on overall impact of the delivery of the Devolution

3 Agreement with more detail on timelines will be submitted to GMCA in December. Further announcements specifically around transport are expected, with further work necessary on delivery platforms required to be completed by March 2016.

Members also commented on the need to ensure that skills programmes match future job requirements and the inter-relationship with the Working Well Programme.

RESOLVED/-

1. To endorse the Greater Manchester Agreement: Further Devolution to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and directly elected Mayor as detailed in Annex A of the report.

2. To agree that a further detailed report be brought to the GMCA meeting scheduled for 18 December 2015.

158/15 GREATER MANCHESTER AREA BASED REVIEW

Sean Anstee presented a report updating members on the Area Based Review process and the impact on provision that the expected outcomes are likely to have. He proposed an amendment to the report (page 8) relating to skills capital funding, recommending that all the schemes detailed are allowed to proceed given significant commitments and progress made in respect of each. This will still leave c.£20m for allocation following completion of the Area Based review.

Sean Anstee also added that he would be writing to all GM MP’s to provide them with an update on progress. Members also commented that transport links would be critical in supporting the outcome of the review.

RESOLVED/-

1. To approve the suggested criteria to use as a starting point for discussions with BIS. 2. To approve that the 5 key criteria for GM be applied to the process, as outlined in Section 4 of the report.

3. To approve an amendment as now reported that all the schemes detailed are allowed to proceed given significant commitments made in respect of each.

159/15 GREATER MANCHESTER GROWTH DEAL TRANSPORT UPDATE

Steve Warrener presented a report providing a quarterly update on the latest position in relation to the Local Growth Deal Transport Programme.

Members recognised the impact of major works in Manchester City Centre on the surrounding areas, stressing the importance of collaboration between local authorities. It was noted that Manchester City Council officers have been directed to ensure that capacity of Great Ancoats Street is not reduced under any circumstances.

RESOLVED/- 4

1. To note the current position in relation to the initial Growth Deal Major Schemes programme.

2. To note the current position in relation to the initial Growth Deal Minor Works programme.

3. To note the current position in relation to the Growth Deal 2 Additional Priorities and Minor Works programmes.

4. To note the ongoing activities that are taking place in order to progress the programme generally.

5. To agree that an update report be submitted to the February GMCA meeting.

160/15 2040 VISION CONSULTATION

Dave Newton presented a report summarising the feedback received during the 12 week consultation (July to October 2015) on the ‘Greater Manchester Transport Strategy 2040: Our Vision’.

Members were assured that this Strategy and Transport for the North work streams would be aligned to reflect GM priorities for example, Pennine Tunnel Link. In addition officers are working with local cycling groups and local authorities to ensure all safety issues are addressed.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the range and nature of responses received on the 2040 Vision consultation.

2. To note that further work, informed by this consultation, is underway to prepare a draft 2040 strategy for GMCA consideration in early 2016.

161/15 GREATER MANCHESTER LOW EMISSIONS STRATEGY AND AIR QUALITY ACTION PLAN

Dave Newton presented a report seeking approval for the Greater Manchester Low Emissions Strategy and the Air Quality Action Plan and to request authorisation to proceed to external consultation.

The meeting was reminded that the Low Carbon Implementation Plan was currently subject to consultation and does need to be aligned with the Low Emissions Strategy and Air Quality Action Plan in the New Year.

RESOLVED/-

1. To endorse the Low Emissions Strategy for Greater Manchester.

2. To endorse the Air Quality Action Plan for Greater Manchester.

3. To authorise the commencement of external consultation for both documents. 5

162/15 CLUSTER OF EMPTY HOMES PROGRAMME

Councillor Sue Derbyshire presented a report seeking agreement to a delegation to determine the use of £212,000 of remaining funds allocated for the Clusters of Empty Homes Programme.

RESOLVED/-

To delegate authority, to determine the allocation of the remaining funds to Eamonn Boylan, Portfolio Lead Chief Executive for Planning and Housing and Richard Paver, GMCA Treasurer, in consultation with Councillor Sue Derbyshire, Portfolio Lead for Planning and Housing.

163/15 GREATER MANCHESTER HOUSING INVESTMENT FUND – INVESTMENT APPROVAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Councillor Sue Derbyshire presented a report seeking approval of a GM Housing Fund loan of £957,654 to Wiggett Homes Ltd.

RESOLVED/-

1. To agree that approval be given to the loan of £957,654 to Wiggitt Homes Ltd to deliver it’s Charminster Drive, Crumpsall, Manchester development.

2. To delegate authority to the Richard Paver, GMCA Treasurer and Liz Treacy, 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 transaction, to sign off any outstanding conditions, issue final approvals and complete any necessary related documentation in respect of the loan at 1) above.

3. To agree that Manchester City Council prepares and effects the necessary legal agreements in accordance with its approved internal process.

164/15 GREATER MANCHESTER INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK AND CONDITIONAL PROJECT APPROVAL

Councillor Kieran Quinn presented a report seeking approval for a loan to Zen Internet Limited and a proposal to reallocate the funding for Project Catalyst to Growing Places.

RESOLVED/-

1. To agree that the project funding application by Zen Internet Limited , (loan of £1,000,000), be given conditional approval and progress to due diligence.

2. To agree that the funding for Project Catalyst (loan of £4,700,000) be reallocated to Growing Places. 3. To delegate authority to the Richard Paver, GMCA Treasurer and Liz Treacy, GMCA Monitoring Officer to review the due diligence information and, subject 6 to their satisfactory review and agreement of the due diligence information and the overall detailed commercial terms of the transaction, to sign off any outstanding conditions, issue final approvals and complete any necessary related documentation in respect of the loan at 1) above.

165/15 EXCLUSION OF PRESS AND PUBLIC

RESOLVED/-

166/15 GREATER MANCHESTER HOUSING INVESTMENT FUND – INVESTMENT APPROVAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Councillor Sue Derbyshire presented a report providing detail on the proposed GM Housing Fund loan to Wiggett Homes Ltd for its Charminster Drive, Crumpsall, Manchester development.

RESOLVED/-

To note the contents of this report. 167/15 GREATER MANCHESTER INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK AND CONDITIONAL PROJECT APPROVAL

Consideration was given to a report providing further detail on the funding application from Zen Internet Limited and the Project Catalyst reallocation.

RESOLVED/-

To note the contents of the report.

7 NOTICE OF THE DECISIONS AGREED AT THE GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY MEETING HELD ON FRIDAY 18 DECEMBER 2015 AT MANCHESTER TOWN HALL

GM INTERIM MAYOR Tony Lloyd (in the Chair)

BOLTON COUNCIL Councillor Ebrahim Adia

BURY COUNCIL Councillor Mike Connolly

MANCHESTER CC Councillor Richard Leese

OLDHAM COUNCIL Councillor David Hibbert

ROCHDALE MBC Councillor Allen Brett

SALFORD CC Councillor Paul Dennett

STOCKPORT MBC Councillor Sue Derbyshire

TAMESIDE MBC Councillor Kieran Quinn

TRAFFORD COUNCIL Councillor Sean Anstee

WIGAN COUNCIL Councillor Peter Smith

JOINT BOARDS AND OTHER MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE

GMFRA Councillor David Acton GMWDA Councillor Nigel Murphy TfGMC Councillor Andrew Fender

OFFICERS IN ATTENDANCE

Keith Davies Bolton Council Mike Owen Bury Council Howard Bernstein Manchester CC Carolyn Wilkins Oldham Council Steve Rumbelow Rochdale MBC Jim Taylor Salford CC Eamonn Boylan Stockport MBC Steven Pleasant Tameside MBC Theresa Grant Trafford Council Donna Hall Wigan Council Andrew Lightfoot GM Director of Public Service Reform Peter O’Reilly GM Fire & Rescue John Bland GM Waste Disposal Authority Mark Hughes Manchester Growth Company Simon Nokes New Economy Ian Williamson Health Devolution Team Katy Calvin-Thomas Health Devolution Team Adam Allen ) Office of the Interim Mayor and Police & Clare Regan ) Crime Commissioner 1 Jon Lamonte TfGM Steve Warrener TfGM

Liz Treacy GMCA Monitoring Officer Richard Paver GMCA Treasurer Julie Connor ) Greater Manchester Sylvia Welsh ) Integrated Support Team Kerry Bond ) Rebecca Heron )

168/15 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of Margaret Asquith (Bolton), Richard Farnell (Rochdale), Jim McMahon (Oldham) and Ian Stewart (Salford).

169/15 DECLARATIONS OF INTERESTS

There were no declarations of interests made in respect of any item on the agenda.

170/15 MINUTES OF THE GMCA MEETING HELD ON 27 NOVEMBER 2015

The minutes of the GMCA meeting held on 27 November 2015 were submitted for consideration.

Clusters of Empty Homes Programme – Minutes 162/15 refers

Members were advised that the delegation to allocate the remaining funds for the Clusters of Empty Homes Programme has been exercised and resources have awarded to the Salford scheme.

RESOLVED/-

To approve the minutes of the GMCA meeting held on 27 November 2015.

171/15 FORWARD PLAN OF STRATEGIC DECISIONS OF GMCA

Consideration was given to a report of Julie Connor, Head of the Greater Manchester Integrated Support Team, which sets out a Forward Plan of those strategic decisions to be considered by GMCA over the next four months.

RESOLVED/-

To note the Forward Plan of Strategic Decisions as set out in the report.

172/15 APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT PERSON FOR CONSIDERATION OF COMPLAINTS AGAINST MEMBERS AND APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT MEMBER TO THE GMCA’S STANDARDS COMMITTEE

2 Liz Treacy presented a report detailing the appointment process of an Independent Person to assist the GMCA’s Monitoring Officer and Hearing Panel in dealing with allegations that GMCA members have acted in breach of the GMCA’s Code of Conduct and the appointment of a Co-Opted Independent Member to be appointed as Chair of the GMCA’s Standards Committee.

RESOLVED/-

1. To agree the Monitoring Officer’s recommendation to appoint Nicolé Jackson to act as an Independent Person for a term of office of four years.

2. To agree the Monitoring Officer’s recommendation to appoint Geoff Linnell to act as an Independent Co-opted Member and the Chair of the GMCA’s Standards Committee for a term of office of four years.

3. To authorise payment to the Independent Person of an annual allowance of £873.

4. To agree to amend the Members’ Allowances Scheme, so that an expenses payment of £156 be made to the Co-opted Independent Member and Chair of the Standards Committee for each meeting of the Standards Committee attended.

173/15 GMCA PORTFOLIOS – DEPUTY LEAD MEMBERS

Tony Lloyd presented a report setting out proposals to improve the efficiency of the GMCA portfolio arrangements and increase strategic leadership capacity through the appointment of Deputy Portfolio lead members. The report presented a draft prospectus providing an overview of key priorities, areas of responsibility for each portfolio area and a cross-portfolio role profile for deputy lead members, for consideration and agreement. Portfolio Leads to determine where the Deputy Portfolio lead members will be involved in assisting with the increased workload.

RESOLVED/-

1. To agree the need for the appointment of Deputy Portfolio Lead Members as detailed in the report.

2. To approve the draft Prospectus and cross-portfolio role description, appended to the report, to support the selection of deputies.

3. To agree to the process of selection, as detailed in Section 4 of the report.

4. To agree that the appointments would be subject to confirmation by the GMCA at the end of January 2016.

174/15 UPDATE ON CITIES AND DEVOLUTION BILL

Tony Lloyd presented a report updating members on the status of the Cities and Devolution Bill and the next steps to implementation.

3 Tony Lloyd proposed an amendments to recommendations delegating authority to a small sub committee comprising the GMCA Chair and Vice Chairs to determine consent to the Order.

The Monitoring Officer will formally write to Greater Manchester Local Authorities seeking approval of the wording of the 1 st Order . Consent will be required by early January.

The meeting was reminded that the Order to progress the Elected Mayor is contingent upon progress being made to implement the Devolution Agreement, including transport powers which enable the introduction of bus franchising and smart ticketing technology across Greater Manchester.

Members requested that a letter seeking assurance that the necessary legislation to provide transport powers and other elements of the Greater Manchester Devolution Agreement will be in place before the election of a GM Mayor. In the event that Government is not able to meet the timetable then Government will be requested to commit to rescind the Elected Mayor Order.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the progress of the Bill and next steps required for implementation.

2. To delegate authority to a sub committee comprising the GMCA Chair and Vice Chairs to consent to the terms of the Order required to establish the role of GMCA elected Mayor and to provide for the Mayor to exercise the functions of the PCC in relation to the Greater Manchester Police area.

3. To delegate authority to a sub committee comprising the GMCA Chair and Vice Chairs the authority to propose and consent to the terms of orders required to enable GMCA to carry out health related functions from April 2016.

4. To commend the draft Order to the GM local authorities for their consent and agreement to the final version.

5. To agree that a letter seeking assurance that the necessary legislation to provide transport powers and other elements of the Greater Manchester Devolution Agreement will be in place before the election of a GM Mayor. In the event that Government is not able to meet the timetable then Government will be requested to commit to rescind the Elected Mayor Order.. .

175/15 FURTHER DEVOLUTION TO GREATER MANCHESTER: WORK PROGRAMME

Councillor Richard Leese presented a report providing Members with the work programme, summarising the tasks to be undertaken to progress the key areas of GM devolution agreement work, announced as part of the 2015 Spending Review settlement.

Members noted that a wider Implementation Plan was under development, covering all aspects of the devolution settlement to date.

4 A further report will be submitted to the GMCA on the preparation of a case for a land programme to enable Greater Manchester to move forward with the development of sites for housing and employment and commerce. Government has committed to work across Departments to assist GM in delivering reform priorities

RESOLVED/-

1. To endorse the work programme.

2. To note that a wider devolution implementation plan is currently under development and will be submitted for consideration at the January meeting of the GMCA.

3. To agree that a further report be submitted GMCA on the preparation of a case for a land programme to enable Greater Manchester to move forward with the development of sites for housing and employment and commerce.

176/15 SCIENCE AND INNOVATION AUDITS

Councillor Richard Leese presented a report detailing an opportunity to submit an Expression of Interest to Government to undertake a Science and Innovation Audit in the GM area.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the information in relation to Science and Innovation Audits contained in the report.

2. To agree to delegate responsibility for signing off the GM Expression of Interest to Councillor Richard Leese and Sir Howard Bernstein as portfolio holders for Economic Strategy.

177/15 LAND AND ESTATES: DELIVERING ‘ONE PUBLIC ESTATE’ AT GM LEVEL

Councillor Sue Derbyshire presented a report detailing work underway to develop a strategy and delivery resource to address the complex land and estates challenges across Greater Manchester.

Members highlighted how utilising public estates in a different way can contribute to achieving Greater Manchester’s aspirations for public service reform. Members of the Land Commission do need to ensure that public service reform is embedded within their work programme in order to deliver better utilisation of assets.

RESOLVED/-

1. To approve the proposed membership, subject to agrement with Department for Communities and Local Government, GMCA portfolio Leaders for Investment, Growth, Housing and Public Service Reform and senior representatives of key Government Departments and Agencies (including NHS England, Homes and Communities Agency and Newtwork Rail) and role of the GM Land Commission. 5

2. To agree to the establishment of a GM Strategic Land Board as proposed in paragraph 2(b) of the report.

3. To approve the establishment of the post of Director of Land and Property for Greater Manchester and the creation of a Greater Manchester Land and Property Delivery Unit as proposed in paragraph 2(c) of the report.

4. To commission, as an early action, the preparation of a set of criteria to underpin a Greater Manchester Land Programme for discussions with Treasury in advance of the spring 2016 Budget.

178/15 PROTOCOLS WITH TRADE UNIONS

Tony Lloyd presented a report detailing a proposed GM Trade Union protocol, the establishment of a properly constituted strategic Workforce Engagement Board and the establishment of a Health and Social Care Engagement Forum.

RESOLVED/-

1. To authorise the Greater Manchester Interim Mayor to sign the GM Trade Union protocol on behalf of GMCA.

2. To support the establishment of a properly constituted strategic Workforce Engagement Board comprising senior managers, political leaders and trade union representatives. The Board will meet on at least a quarterly basis to exchange ideas and proposals, discuss relevant issues of joint concern and seek to reach agreements as appropriate on matters of workforce implications and workforce skills and development arising from or resulting from the early policy formulation, planning and implementation of Greater Manchester devolution, decentralisation and public service redesign initiatives. (appendix 1 of the report)

3. To support the establishment of a Health and Social Care Engagement Forum comprising trade union and employer representatives which will feed into the strategic Workforce Engagement Board and report to the Health and Social Care Partnership Board (appendix 2 of the report).

179/15 NORTHERN AND TRANSPENNINE EXPRESS FRANCHISES ANNOUNCEMENT

Councillor Richard Leese presented a report providing a brief overview of the key messages and initial benefit to Greater Manchester following the announcement of the franchise contract award to Arriva Rail North Ltd (Northern) and First TransPennine Express Ltd on 9 th December.

Transport for the North, in working together has delivered much improved outcomes for the North , including significant employment opportunities across the franchises.

The investment in new rail vehicles, alongside other investment, particularly High Speed 2, will help to revive the UK rail industry, as a direct result of the Northern Authorities working together at both political and officer level. 6

RESOLVED/-

To note the report.

180/15 HENDY & BOWE NETWORK RAIL REVIEWS

Jon Lamonte presented a report setting out the conclusions of two independent reviews of Network Rail’s investment programme for Control Period 5, from 2014 to 2019. The first was undertaken by Sir Peter Hendy, Chairman of Network Rail, the second was undertaken by Dame Colette Bowe. Both reports were published on Thursday 25 th November.

It was reported that all the Northern Hub works will be undertaken, with some on a delayed timetable due to the delays on the Ordsall Chord scheme planning process and legal actions, with the Piccadilly scheme completed by 2020. The schedule of works will emerge over the following months with further reports to the GMCA.

Members commented that there were still some significant services missing in the peripheral areas of Greater Manchester restricting access to key growth areas. Going forward there is still some work to be undertaken to establish where further improvements can be made.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the conclusions of the reviews as set out in the paper and the implications for Greater Manchester.

2. To note that further reports will be submitted to the GMCA as the schedule of work emerges over the forthcoming months.

181/15 ENERGY COMPANY FOR GREATER MANCHESTER

Councillor Sue Derbyshire and Steve Rumbelow presented a report outlining the findings of a feasibility study and detailing the proposed the next steps to develop the proposal to create an Energy Company for Greater Manchester.

Members were informed that it was envisaged that the Company would be producing results three years following establishment, which should enable further detailed work on fuel poverty interventions.

Members also requested that Housing Associations be involved in the formation of the Energy Company as a means of getting supply into the residential properties.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the contents of this report and the work completed by Cornwall Energy.

2. To agree that authority be delegated to Councillor Sue Derbyshire to commission all the work necessary to develop a preferred model for a Greater Manchester Energy Company (a fully licensed supply company) with a view to reporting back to the GMCA early in the New Year. 7

182/15 INTEGRATED COVENANT OF MAYORS

Councillor Sue Derbyshire and Steve Rumbelow presented a report providing an update and suggested approach regarding the integration of two initiatives in which Greater Manchester is engaged; the Covenant of Mayors and Mayors Adapt.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the report.

2. To approve the signing of the new Integrated Covenant by the Greater Manchester Interim Mayor and Cllr Sue Derbyshire.

183/15 GREATER MANCHESTER INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK AND CONDITIONAL PROJECT APPROVAL

Councillor Kieran Quinn and Eamonn Boylan presented a report providing updates on the DataCentred and MonoPumps projects.

Further details of the projects are included in a more detailed report, considered in the confidential part of the agenda due to the information relating to the confidential business affairs of the applicants.

RESOLVED/-

1. To agree to the changes to the commercial terms of the DataCentred funding as set out in the part b report.

2. To note the update provided with respect to MonoPumps.

3. To delegate authority 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 transaction, to sign off any outstanding conditions, issue final approvals and complete any necessary related documentation in respect of the loan at 1) above.

184/15 EXCLUSION OF PRESS AND PUBLIC

RESOLVED/-

185/15 ENERGY COMPANY FOR GREATER MANCHESTER

Councillor Sue Derbyshire and Steve Rumbelow presented a report providing further

8 information on two routes to establishing a fully licensed supply company for Greater Manchester which is currently under consideration.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the report.

2. To support further development of the principle of establishing a Greater Manchester Energy Company as described in the Part A report.

186/15 GREATER MANCHESTER INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK AND CONDITIONAL PROJECT APPROVAL

Councillor Kieran Quinn and Eamonn Boylan presented a report providing an update on the status of the MonoPumps and DataCentred projects.

It was agreed that a further detailed note on the assumptions would be circulated to Members of the GMCA on a confidential basis.

RESOLVED/-

To note the report.

NOTICE OF THE DECISIONS AGREED AT THE JOINT MEETING OF THE GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD HELD ON FRIDAY 30 OCTOBER 2015 AT BURY TOWN HALL

GM INTERIM MAYOR Tony Lloyd (in the Chair)

BOLTON COUNCIL Councillor Cliff Morris

BURY COUNCIL Councillor Mike Connolly

MANCHESTER CC Councillor Richard Leese

OLDHAM COUNCIL Councillor Jean Stretton

ROCHDALE MBC Councillor Peter Williams

SALFORD CC Councillor David Lancaster

STOCKPORT MBC Councillor Sue Derbyshire

TAMESIDE MBC Councillor Kieran Quinn

TRAFFORD COUNCIL Councillor Sean Anstee

WIGAN COUNCIL Councillor Peter Smith

JOINT BOARDS AND OTHER MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE

GMFRA Councillor Tommy Judge GMWDA Councillor Nigel Murphy TfGMC Councillor Andrew Fender

OFFICERS IN ATTENDANCE

Liz Treacy GMCA Monitoring Officer Richard Paver GMCA Treasurer Andrew Lightfoot GM Public Service Reform Julie Connor ) Greater Manchester Sylvia Welsh ) Integrated Support Team Kerry Bond )

105/15 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of David Acton (GMFRA), Richard Farnell (Rochdale), Donna Hall (Wigan), Paul Najsarek (Bolton), Cath Piddington (GMWDA) and Ian Stewart (Salford).

106/15 DECLARATIONS OF INTERESTS

None received.

107/15 MINUTES OF THE JOINT GMCA AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING HELD ON 25 SEPTEMBER 2015

The minutes of the Joint GMCA and AGMA Executive Board meeting held on 25 September 2015 were submitted for consideration.

RESOLVED/-

To approve the minutes of the Joint GMCA and AGMA Executive Board held on 25 September 2015.

108/15 FORWARD PLAN OF STRATEGIC DECISIONS OF THE JOINT GMCA AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD

Consideration was given to a report of Julie Connor, Head of the Greater Manchester Integrated Support Team, which set out the Forward Plan of those strategic decisions to be considered over the next four months.

RESOLVED/-

To note the Forward Plan of Strategic Decisions as set out in the report.

109/15 MINUTES OF THE JOINT GMCA AND AGMA SCRUTINY POOL MEETING HELD ON 9 OCTOBER 2015

RESOLVED/-

To note the minutes of the Joint GMCA and AGMA Scrutiny Pool meeting held on 9 October 2015.

2 110/15 GREATER MANCHESTER SPATIAL FRAMEWORK – CONSULTATION ON STRATEGIC GROWTH OPTIONS

Eamonn Boylan, Chief Executive, Stockport MBC, introduced a report updating members on the next stage of the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework, seeking approval to a formal consultation process following discussions with Leaders on the final content.

The report also advised that it was proposed the consultation will begin on 9 November 2015 for at least 6 weeks and will be carried out in line with the Statement of Communities Involvement of the 10 local planning authorities.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the report and agree the approach.

2. To delegate responsibility to make any final amendments to the consultation documents and agree their publication to Eamonn Boylan, Chief Executive, Stockport MBC, in consultation with Councillor Sue Derbyshire, Portfolio Lead member for Planning & Housing.

3. To agree that Greater Manchester continue discussions with Department for Communities and Local Government as outlined in Section 3 of the report.

111/15 HOUSING AND PLANNING BILL

Eamonn Boylan, Chief Executive, Stockport MBC presented a report detailing the key provisions of the Government’s Housing and Planning Bill, published on 13 October 2015.

A member expressed concern that this legislation would not help to address the growing demand in Greater Manchester for affordable rented housing for those on low incomes given the current economic climate.

It was noted that a further paper presenting options under development to identify how these issues might be addressed as they affect Greater Manchester would be considered at an informal meeting of leaders later in the day. It was also suggested that the further paper could be made publicly available once discussed so that there is a general understanding and awareness of the context, constraints of work currently being undertaken to address the needs of Greater Manchester residents more specifically.

RESOLVED/-

To note the key elements of the Housing and Planning Bill.

112/15 AGMA REVENUE BUDGET MONITORING UPDATE 2015/16

Richard Paver, GMCA and AGMA Treasurer, presented a report informing members of the 2015/16 forecast revenue outturn position as at end September 2015.

In response to a question it was confirmed that conversations were being undertaken across the relevant agencies to ensure Operation Challenger would be as sustainable going forward and that the funding request from the Police and Crime Panel support costs was for

3 2015/16 only.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the report and the current revenue outturn forecast for 2015/16 which is projecting an underspend of £268,000.

2. To note and approve the funding requirements for Operation Challenger as detailed in the report and approve the virement of £121,000 from the Police and Crime Panel support costs budget to the project budget as detailed in paragraphs 2.1 to 2.3 of the report, noting that the funding is for 2015/16 only and that longer term funding requirements will need to be addressed.

3. To approve the remaining revisions to the revenue budget plan 2015/16 as identified in the report and described in paragraph 2.4 of the report.

4. To note the position on reserves as highlighted in paragraph 3 of the report.

NOTICE OF THE DECISIONS AGREED AT THE JOINT MEETING OF THE GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD HELD ON FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2015 AT TRAFFORD TOWN HALL

GM INTERIM MAYOR Tony Lloyd (in the Chair)

BOLTON COUNCIL Councillor Cliff Morris

BURY COUNCIL Councillor Mike Connolly

MANCHESTER CC Councillor Richard Leese

OLDHAM COUNCIL Councillor Jean Stretton

ROCHDALE MBC Councillor Peter Williams

SALFORD CC Ian Stewart

STOCKPORT MBC Councillor Sue Derbyshire

TAMESIDE MBC Councillor Kieran Quinn

TRAFFORD COUNCIL Councillor Sean Anstee

WIGAN COUNCIL Councillor Peter Smith

JOINT BOARDS AND OTHER MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE

GMFRA Councillor David Acton GMFRA Councillor John Bell GMWDA Councillor Nigel Murphy TfGMC Councillor Andrew Fender

OFFICERS IN ATTENDANCE

Keith Davies Bolton Council Mike Owen Bury Council Howard Bernstein Manchester CC Carolyn Wilkins Oldham Council Steve Rumbelow Rochdale MBC Jim Taylor Salford CC Eamonn Boylan Stockport MBC Steven Pleasant Tameside MBC Theresa Grant Trafford Council Donna Hall Wigan Council Andrew Lightfoot GM Director of Public Service Reform Ian Hopkins GMP Mark Hughes Manchester Growth Company Simon Nokes New Economy 1 Adam Allen ) Office of the Interim Mayor and Police & Crime Clare Regan ) Commissioner Steve Warrener TfGM Dave Newton TfGM Liz Treacy GMCA Monitoring Officer Richard Paver GMCA Treasurer Julie Connor ) Greater Manchester Sylvia Welsh ) Integrated Support Team Kerry Bond ) Rebecca Heron )

113/15 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of Jim McMahon (Oldham), Richard Farnell (Rochdale), Margaret Asquith (Bolton), Peter O’Reilly (GMFRA), Cath Piddington (GMWDA), Jon Lamonte (TfGM).

114/15 DECLARATIONS OF INTERESTS

None received.

115/15 MINUTES OF THE JOINT GMCA AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING HELD ON 30 OCTOBER 2015

The minutes of the Joint GMCA and AGMA Executive Board meeting held on 30 October 2015 were submitted for consideration.

RESOLVED/-

To approve the minutes of the Joint GMCA and AGMA Executive Board held on 30 October 2015.

116/15 FORWARD PLAN OF STRATEGIC DECISIONS OF THE JOINT GMCA AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD

RESOLVED/-

To note the Forward Plan of Strategic Decisions as set out in the report.

117/15 GM PLANNING AND HOUSING COMMISSION – CHANGE IN ROCHDALE MBC NOMINATIONS

RESOLVED/-

To agree to the appointment of Councillor John Blundell, replacing Councillor Linda Robinson on the GM Planning and Housing Commission with effect from 27 November 2015. 2

118/15 ASYLUM SEEKERS EXECUTIVE BOARD – CHANGE IN BOLTON COUNCIL NOMINATIONS

RESOLVED/-

To agree to the appointment of Councillor Kevin McKeon, replacing Councillor Kate Lewis on the Asylum Seekers Executive Board with effect from 27 November 2015.

119/15 MINUTES OF THE JOINT GMCA AND AGMA SCRUTINY POOL MEETING HELD ON 13 NOVEMBER 2015

RESOLVED/-

To note the minutes of the Joint GMCA and AGMA Scrutiny Pool meeting held on 13 November 2015.

120/15 REVISED AGMA CONSTITUTION

Liz Treacy presented a report requesting the adoption of the revised AGMA Constitution, incorporating changes necessitated by the GMCA joining AGMA as a Full Member.

RESOLVED/-

To approve the adopt the revised AGMA Constitution as set out in Appendix 1 of the report.

NOTICE OF THE DECISIONS AGREED AT THE JOINT MEETING OF THE GREATER MANCHESTER COMBINED AUTHORITY AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD HELD ON FRIDAY 18 DECEMBER 2015 AT MANCHESTER TOWN HALL

GM INTERIM MAYOR Tony Lloyd (in the Chair)

BOLTON COUNCIL Councillor Ebrahim Adia

BURY COUNCIL Councillor Mike Connolly

MANCHESTER CC Councillor Richard Leese

OLDHAM COUNCIL Councillor David Hibbert

ROCHDALE MBC Councillor Allen Brett

SALFORD CC Councillor Paul Dennett

STOCKPORT MBC Councillor Sue Derbyshire

TAMESIDE MBC Councillor Kieran Quinn

TRAFFORD COUNCIL Councillor Sean Anstee

WIGAN COUNCIL Councillor Peter Smith

JOINT BOARDS AND OTHER MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE

GMFRA Councillor David Acton GMWDA Councillor Nigel Murphy TfGMC Councillor Andrew Fender

OFFICERS IN ATTENDANCE

Keith Davies Bolton Council Mike Owen Bury Council Howard Bernstein Manchester CC Carolyn Wilkins Oldham Council Steve Rumbelow Rochdale MBC Jim Taylor Salford CC Eamonn Boylan Stockport MBC Steven Pleasant Tameside MBC Theresa Grant Trafford Council Donna Hall Wigan Council Andrew Lightfoot GM Director of Public Service Reform Peter O’Reilly GM Fire & Rescue John Bland GM Waste Disposal Authority Mark Hughes Manchester Growth Company Simon Nokes New Economy Ian Williamson Health Devolution Team Katy Calvin-Thomas Health Devolution Team 1 Adam Allen ) Office of the Interim Mayor and Police & Clare Regan ) Crime Commissioner Jon Lamonte TfGM Steve Warrener TfGM

Liz Treacy GMCA Monitoring Officer Richard Paver GMCA Treasurer Julie Connor ) Greater Manchester Sylvia Welsh ) Integrated Support Team Kerry Bond ) Rebecca Heron )

121/15 APOLOGIES

Apologies for absence were received on behalf of Margaret Asquith (Bolton), Councillors Richard Farnell (Rochdale), Jim McMahon (Oldham) and Ian Stewart (Salford).

122/15 DECLARATIONS OF INTERESTS

Councillor Richard Leese declared a prejudicial interest in Item 6a Budget Strategy as a Director of the Growth Company Board.

123/15 MINUTES OF THE JOINT GMCA AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING HELD ON 27 NOVEMBER 2015

The minutes of the Joint GMCA and AGMA Executive Board meeting held on 27 November 2015 were submitted for consideration.

RESOLVED/-

To approve the minutes of the Joint GMCA and AGMA Executive Board held on 27 November 2015.

124/15 FORWARD PLAN OF STRATEGIC DECISIONS OF THE JOINT GMCA AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD AND AGMA EXECUTIVE BOARD

RESOLVED/-

To note the Forward Plan of Strategic Decisions as set out in the report.

125/15 BUDGET STRATEGY 2016/17

Councillor Kieran Quinn introduced a report detailing the proposals for the GMCA and AGMA budgets as part of the 2016/17 budget strategy process, and the Joint Authority levy/precept assumptions for 2016/17. Richard Paver confirmed that all the Scrutiny Process meetings have now taken place. 2

Councillor David Action appraised the meeting of the direct implications of the Local Government Settlement on the Fire and Rescue Services.

RESOLVED/-

1. To agree the recommendations of the GMCA transport scrutiny panel as detailed in paragraph 4.9 of the report, and below:

i) the Transport Levy for 2016/17 remain unchanged from 2015/16 at £195.123m; ii) the previously planned increase of 1.8% (£3.5 million) with respect to the Greater Manchester Transport Fund would be deferred and would be reviewed again in future years; iii) any bus related efficiency savings would be ‘ring fenced’ to part fund the future costs of Bus Franchising; and iv) any other efficiency savings, over and above those included to reach a “cash standstill” position would be ring-fenced to reduce the currently forecast deficits in 2017/18 and 2018/19.

2. To agree the recommendations of the AGMA/GMCA non transport scrutiny panel as detailed in paragraph 5.31 of the report, in particular:

v) All priorities and pressures are to be put forward for approval; vi) All savings are to be put forward for approval subject to further detail on the impact being considered; vii) That further information is provided regarding the scope of the Manchester Investment and Development Agency Service Limited (MIDAS) review; viii)Commitments against the Transformation Challenge Award and Public Service Reform Development Fund to be provided to consider utilisation of the funds; ix) Further information to be provided regarding the use of reserves; x) Further information to be provided to consider the options for AGMA Section 48 Grants.

3. To agree the potential additional capacity of £350,000 on AGMA/GMCA non transport budget, subject to approval of all proposals, and whether this should be set aside in a budget for other GM priorities.

4. To agree the Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority budget proposals of a zero percent levy increase in 2016/17 as detailed in paragraph 6.1 of the report.

5. To note that at the time of writing the report, the scrutiny of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s budget is yet to take place and that formal approval of proposals will follow the timeline as detailed in paragraph 6.5 of the report.

6. To agree the GM Fire and Rescue Service budget proposals as detailed in paragraphs 6.6 to 6.13 of the report, although this may need to be amended in light of the funding received in the 2016/17 RSG Settlement and information from Local Authorities about Council Tax or Business Rates income.

126/15 GREATER MANCHESTER REFORM BUDGET UPDATE

Tony Lloyd introduced a report providing an update on the expenditure from the Greater

3 Manchester Transformational Challenge Award budgets including commitments identified for 2016/17 where identified.

Members requested a detailed breakdown of how each Local Authority has utilised the Locality Exemplar support and that it is submitted to the GMCA in January 2015.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the current commitments against these budgets and the proposed plans for further use in 2016/17.

2. To agree to the transfer of the funding from the devolution element of the transformational Challenge Award budget to support Health and Social Care and the expansion of the Working Well Programme to the relevant organisations hosting these specific budgets as outlined in the report.

3. To agree that a detailed breakdown of how each Local Authority has utilised the Locality Exemplar support be submitted to the GMCA in January 2015.

127/15 BUSINESS RATES POOLING

Councillor Kieran Quinn introduced a report detailing arrangements for the continuation of a Business Rates Pool in 2016/17 to include all GM districts plus Cheshire East and Cheshire West.

Richard Paver advised the meeting that the 12 Authorities will need to confirm their participation in the 2016/17 Pool, after receipt of the Revenue Support Grant settlement, with a recommendation that this is be considered by the GMCA Treasurer and Portfolio Holder for Finance, Kieran Quinn, with a recommendation to be made to 10 Local Authorities. The GMCA Treasurer will seek confirmation from the Cheshire authorities to the same timescale.

RESOLVED/-

1. To note that the provisional RSG Settlement will include the designation of the 12 Authorities to form a Business Rate Pool in 2016/17.

2. To note the arrangements for reaching a final decision on the 2016/17 Pool and authorise the GMCA Treasurer, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance, Kieran Quinn, to make an appropriate recommendation to the Greater Manchester Local Authorities.

3. To note that Greater Manchester Treasurers will be discussing the sharing arrangements for the 2016/17 Pool.

4. To note that any discussion on the utilisation of any proceeds from the Business Rate Pool should follow once final discussions have taken place with Government as outlined in the GM Devolution announcements of late November.

128/15 HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE STRATEGIC PLAN

Councillor Peter Smith introduced a report providing members with the final draft of the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Strategic Plan. The plan was considered at the Health and Social Care Strategic Partnership Board earlier in the day recommending that the GMCA support and endorse the Plan for commending to the Greater Manchester Local Authorities, adding that there are a number of grammatical errors to be corrected before the final Plan is published later in the day.

Ian Williamson reported that the Plan still required some minor drafting and reordering amendments to reflect the work underway around prevention; that the level of Transformation Fund determined by NHS England is £450M; and that work continues to finalise the detail of the financial and operational management arrangements. A number of the paragraphs in the plan will also be reordered.

RESOLVED/-

1. To endorse the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Strategic Plan.

2. To commend the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Strategic Plan to the ten local authorities for approval.

129/15 UPDATED GOVERNANCE PROPOSALS

Councillor Peter Smith introduced a report setting out the proposals and recommendations from the governance focus session held with representatives of all stakeholders on 17 November, in particular the role of primary care providers in the governance structure and confirming the process for agreement of the Strategic Plan and the progress on the Greater Manchester wide Joint Commissioning arrangements.

He also requested that the appointment to the vacancy on the Strategic Partnership Board Executive be deferred pending the outcome of the process for appointment of Deputy Lead Portfolio Members, adding that one of the Health and Well Being Deputies should be considered for the seat on the Board Executive.

RESOLVED/-

1. To agree the GMCA and AGMA representation on the Strategic Partnership Board Executive, noting AGMA have four seats, these are currently occupied by members from Cllr Peter Smith (Wigan), Cllr Cliff Morris (Bolton), and Cllr Sue Murphy (Manchester).

2. To defer the appointment of the fourth GMCA representative to the board Executive pending the outcome of the Appointment of Deputy Lead Portfolio Members process, with the seat to be allocated to one of the Health and Well Being Deputies.

3. To endorse the recommendations agreed by the Strategic Partnership Board on 27 th November, as outlined below:

5 i. To agree that primary care providers will receive four seats on the Strategic Partnership Board, and have one seat at the Strategic Partnership Board Executive.

ii. To agree that voting arrangements for the Strategic Partnership Board and Strategic Partnership Board Executive are revised to reflect those set out in the report.

iii. To agree that the Terms of Reference for the Strategic Partnership Board and Strategic Partnership Board Executive are amended to reflect (1) and (2).

iv. To agree that the Governance Sub Group work with Primary Care partners to develop their governance arrangements.

v. To agree the Strategic Plan approval process.

vi. To agree the role of the Strategic Partnership Board in respect of the Transformation Fund, and to instruct the Strategic Partnership Board to develop the criteria by which such funding will be accessed.

vii. To agree the role of the Strategic Partnership Board in shadow form.

viii. To agree the principles of the conflict resolution process for the Strategic Partnership Board, and instruct the Governance Sub Group and Strategic Partnership Board Executive to further develop.

ix. To agree the functions and form of the GM Joint Commissioning Board.

x. To instruct the Governance Sub Group to develop terms of reference for the Joint Commissioning Board.

xi. To agree that a GM Commissioning Strategy is developed aligned with the Strategic Plan.

xii. To instruct the Governance Sub Group to develop the criteria by which NHSE could exercise its ability to request that decisions are not considered at the Joint Commissioning Board.

xiii. To agree that the Joint Commissioning Board be supported by smaller Executive Group.

xiv. To agree that the GMJCB establish a research and innovation board to inform its decisions.

xv. To agree that existing scrutiny arrangements are reviewed, and request that a report be brought to a future meeting.

130/15 EU LIFE INTEGRATED PROJECT (LIFE IP) IN GREATER MANCHESTER

Councillor Sue Derbyshire introduced a report updating Members on AGMA’s involvement in a successful £14m LIFE Integrated Project bid by the Environment Agency and seeking AGMA’s agreement for Salford City Council to act as the lead Authority on behalf of AGMA. 6

RESOLVED/-

1. To note the success of the Environment Agency’s (EA) £14m LIFE IP funding bid; a formal offer of funding has been received naming AGMA as a significant beneficiary.

2. To formally agree to request Salford City Council (SCC) to act as the lead Authority and enter into a Partnership Agreement with the Environment Agency on behalf of AGMA in order to release funding for the project.

3. To note that back to back local agreements between Salford City Council and the relevant Local Authorities will need to be entered into to release funding for the relevant Local Authorities.

4. To note the benefits to Greater Manchester, opportunities and responsibilities plus the key actions and deadlines of the sign up process for those Local Authorities formally involved in project delivery.

131/15 GREATER MANCHESTER METROPOLITAN DEBT ADMINISTRATION FUND - ESTIMATED RATES OF INTEREST AND BORROWING STRATEGY 2015/16 REVISED AND 2016/17 ORIGINAL

Councillor Kieran Quinn Pleasant as designated lead Authority to administer the loan fund of the former Greater Manchester County Council, presented the report detailing the Greater Manchester Debt Administration Fund’s estimated rates of interest for 2015/16 and 2016/17 together with the borrowing strategy to be employed.

RESOLVED:

To note the revised 2015/16 estimate and the original 2016/17 estimate.