Thurrock: A place of opportunity, enterprise and excellence, where individuals, communities and businesses flourish
Council
To the Members of Thurrock Council
The next meeting of the Council will be held at 7.00 pm on 24 June 2015
Council Chamber, Civic Offices, New Road, Grays, Essex, RM17 6SL
Membership of the Council:
Sue Gray (Mayor) Cathy Kent (Deputy Mayor)
Tim Aker Shane Hebb Barry Palmer Chris Baker Terence Hipsey Jane Pothecary James Baker Victoria Holloway Robert Ray Jan Baker Barry Johnson Joycelyn Redsell Clare Baldwin Roy Jones Barbara Rice Terry Brookes Tom Kelly Gerard Rice Russell Cherry John Kent Andrew Roast Colin Churchman Martin Kerin Peter Smith Mark Coxshall Charlie Key Graham Snell Leslie Gamester Steve Liddiard Richard Speight Oliver Gerrish Brian Little Deborah Stewart Robert Gledhill Susan Little Michael Stone Yash Gupta (MBE) Sue MacPherson Pauline Tolson Graham Hamilton Ben Maney Kevin Wheeler Garry Hague Tunde Ojetola Lynn Worrall James Halden Bukky Okunade
David Bull Councillor Sue Gray Interim Chief Executive Mayor of Thurrock
Agenda published on: 16 June 2015
Agenda
Open to Public and Press Page 1 Apologies for absence
2 Minutes 9 - 22
To approve as a correct record the Minutes of the meeting of the Council, held on 27 May 2015.
3 Items of Urgent Business
To receive additional items that the Mayor is of the opinion should be considered as a matter of urgency, in accordance with Section 100B (4) (b) of the Local Government Act 1972.
4 Declaration of Interests
To receive any declaration of interests from Members.
5 Announcements on behalf of the Mayor or the Leader of the Council
6 Questions from Members of the Public 23 - 24
In accordance with Chapter 2, Part 2 (Rule 14) of the Council’s Constitution.
7 Petitions from Members of the Public and Councillors
In accordance with Chapter 2, Part 2(Rule 14) of the Council’s Constitution.
8 Petitions Update Report 25 - 30
9 Appointments to Committees and Outside Bodies, Statutory and Other Panels
The Council are asked to agree any changes to the appointments made to committees and outside bodies, statutory and other panels, as requested by Group Leaders. 10 The Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (England) 31 - 38 (Amendment) Regulations 2015 - Appointment and Dismissal of Senior Officers
11 Housing Revenue Account - Housing Development Programme 39 - 44 Phase 2
12 School Capital Programme Update 45 - 52
13 Appointment of the Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service To follow
This item is marked as to follow and will be published as a supplementary agenda item.
14 Appointment of Monitoring Officer To follow
This item is marked as to follow and will be published as a supplementary agenda item.
15 Report of the Cabinet Member for Finance and Strategy 53 - 66
16 Questions from Members 67 - 68
In accordance with Chapter 2, Part 2 (Rule 14) of the Council’s Constitution.
17 Reports from Members representing the Council on Outside Bodies
18 Minutes of Committees
Name of Committee Date
Standards & Audit Committee 17 March 2015
General Services Committee 9 March 2015
Planning Committee 5 March 2015
Planning Committee 2 April 2015
General Services Committee 21 May 2015
Planning Committee 30 April 2015
19 Update on motions resolved at Council during the previous year 69 - 74 20 To consider motions from Members in the order in which they were submitted
There were no motions received.
Queries regarding this Agenda or notification of apologies:
Please contact Stephanie Cox, Senior Democratic Services Officer by sending an email to [email protected]
Future Dates of Council:
22 July 2015, 23 September 2015, 28 October 2015, 25 November 2015, 27 January 2016, 24 February 2016, 23 March 2016. 25 May 2016 (Annual Council) This page is intentionally left blank Information for members of the public and councillors
Access to Information and Meetings
Members of the public can attend all meetings of the council and its committees and have the right to see the agenda, which will be published no later than 5 working days before the meeting, and minutes once they are published.
Recording of meetings
This meeting may be recorded for transmission and publication on the Council's website. At the start of the meeting the Chair will confirm if all or part of the meeting is to be recorded. Members of the public not wishing any speech or address to be recorded for publication to the Internet should contact Democratic Services to discuss any concerns. If you have any queries regarding this, please contact Democratic Services at [email protected]
Guidelines on filming, photography, recording and use of social media at council and committee meetings
The council welcomes the filming, photography, recording and use of social media at council and committee meetings as a means of reporting on its proceedings because it helps to make the council more transparent and accountable to its local communities. If you wish to film or photograph the proceedings of a meeting and have any special requirements or are intending to bring in large equipment please contact the Communications Team at [email protected] before the meeting. The Chair of the meeting will then be consulted and their agreement sought to any specific request made. Where members of the public use a laptop, tablet device, smart phone or similar devices to use social media, make recordings or take photographs these devices must be set to ‘silent’ mode to avoid interrupting proceedings of the council or committee. The use of flash photography or additional lighting may be allowed provided it has been discussed prior to the meeting and agreement reached to ensure that it will not disrupt proceedings. The Chair of the meeting may terminate or suspend filming, photography, recording and use of social media if any of these activities, in their opinion, are disrupting proceedings at the meeting.
Page 1 Thurrock Council Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available throughout the Civic Offices. You can access Wi-Fi on your device by simply turning on the Wi-Fi on your laptop, Smartphone or tablet. You should connect to TBC-CIVIC Enter the password Thurrock to connect to/join the Wi-Fi network. A Terms & Conditions page should appear and you have to accept these before you can begin using Wi-Fi. Some devices require you to access your browser to bring up the Terms & Conditions page, which you must accept. The ICT department can offer support for council owned devices only.
Evacuation Procedures
In the case of an emergency, you should evacuate the building using the nearest available exit and congregate at the assembly point at Kings Walk.
How to view this agenda on a tablet device
You can view the agenda on your iPad, Android Device or Blackberry Playbook with the free modern.gov app.
Members of the Council should ensure that their device is sufficiently charged, although a limited number of charging points will be available in Members Services.
To view any “exempt” information that may be included on the agenda for this meeting, Councillors should:
Access the modern.gov app Enter your username and password
Page 2 DECLARING INTERESTS FLOWCHART – QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF
Breaching those parts identified as a pecuniary interest is potentially a criminal offence
Helpful Reminders for Members
Is your register of interests up to date? In particular have you declared to the Monitoring Officer all disclosable pecuniary interests? Have you checked the register to ensure that they have been recorded correctly?
When should you declare an interest at a meeting?
What matters are being discussed at the meeting? (including Council, Cabinet, Committees, Subs, Joint Committees and Joint Subs); or If you are a Cabinet Member making decisions other than in Cabinet what matter is before you for single member decision?
Does the business to be transacted at the meeting relate to; or likely to affect any of your registered interests and in particular any of your Disclosable Pecuniary Interests?
Disclosable Pecuniary Interests shall include your interests or those of: your spouse or civil partner’s a person you are living with as husband/ wife a person you are living with as if you were civil partners where you are aware that this other person has the interest.
A detailed description of a disclosable pecuniary interest is included in the Members Code of Conduct at Chapter 7 of the Constitution. Please seek advice from the Monitoring Officer about disclosable pecuniary interests.
What is a Non-Pecuniary interest? – this is an interest which is not pecuniary (as defined) but is nonetheless so significant that a member of the public with knowledge of the relevant facts, would reasonably regard to be so significant that it would materially impact upon your judgement of the public interest.
Pecuniary Non- pecuniary
If the interest is not already in the register you must Declare the nature and extent of your interest including enough (unless the interest has been agreed by the Monitoring detail to allow a member of the public to understand its nature Officer to be sensitive) disclose the existence and nature of the interest to the meeting
If the Interest is not entered in the register and is not the subject of a pending notification you must within 28 days notify the Monitoring Officer You may participate and vote in the usual of the interest for inclusion in the register way but you should seek advice on Predetermination and Bias from the Monitoring Officer. Unless you have received dispensation upon previous application from the Monitoring Officer, you must: - Not participate or participate further in any discussion of the matter at a meeting; - Not participate in any vote or further vote taken at the meeting; and - leave the room while the item is being considered/voted upon If you are a Cabinet Member you may make arrangements for the matter to be dealt with by a third person but take no further steps
Page 3 PROCEDURE FOR MOTIONS
No speech may exceed 3 minutes without the consent of the Mayor [Rule 19.8], except for the proposer of any motion who shall have 5 minutes to move that motion (except on a motion to amend where the 3 minute time shall apply) [Rule 19.8(a)] All Motions will follow Section A and then either Section B or C A. A1 Motion is moved [Rule 19.2] A2 Mover speaks [Rule 19.8(a) (5 minutes) A3 Seconded [Rule 19.2] A4 Seconder speaks or reserves right to speak [Rule 19.3] (3 minutes)
Then the procedure will move to either B or C below: B. C.
IF there is an AMENDMENT (please If NOT amended i.e. original motion see Rule 19.23) B1 The mover of the amendment shall C1 Debate speak (3 mins). B2 The seconder of the amendment C2 If the seconder of the motion has shall speak unless he or she has reserved their speeches, they shall reserved their speech (3 mins). then speak B3 THEN debate on the subject. C3 The mover of the substantive motion shall have the final right of reply B4 If the seconder of the substantive C4 Vote on motion motion and the amendment reserved their speeches, they shall then speak B5 The mover of the amendment shall have a right of reply B6 The mover of the substantive motion shall have the final right of reply B7 Vote on amendment B8 A vote shall be taken on the substantive motion, as amended if appropriate, without further debate
Page 4 Vision: Thurrock: A place of opportunity, enterprise and excellence, where individuals, communities and businesses flourish.
To achieve our vision, we have identified five strategic priorities:
1. Create a great place for learning and opportunity Ensure that every place of learning is rated “Good” or better Raise levels of aspiration and attainment so that residents can take advantage of local job opportunities Support families to give children the best possible start in life
2. Encourage and promote job creation and economic prosperity Promote Thurrock and encourage inward investment to enable and sustain growth Support business and develop the local skilled workforce they require Work with partners to secure improved infrastructure and built environment
3. Build pride, responsibility and respect Create welcoming, safe, and resilient communities which value fairness Work in partnership with communities to help them take responsibility for shaping their quality of life Empower residents through choice and independence to improve their health and well-being
4. Improve health and well-being Ensure people stay healthy longer, adding years to life and life to years Reduce inequalities in health and well-being and safeguard the most vulnerable people with timely intervention and care accessed closer to home Enhance quality of life through improved housing, employment and opportunity
5. Promote and protect our clean and green environment Enhance access to Thurrock's river frontage, cultural assets and leisure opportunities Promote Thurrock's natural environment and biodiversity Inspire high quality design and standards in our buildings and public space
Page 5 This page is intentionally left blank 100 Years in Memoriam
Remembering Thurrock’s Fallen of World War One
Each month during the centenary period of the First World War, Thurrock Council will pay tribute to the 834 local residents known to have lost their lives due to causes associated with the war and their service. At each meeting of Council until November 2018, the 100th anniversary of signing of the Armistice with Germany, a Roll of Honour will be published with the agenda detailing the casualties from that month 100 years ago to commemorate the sacrifice made by Thurrock residents.
June 1915
FIRST DATE SURNAME NAME AGE WARD RANK SERVICE DIED
ROBERT 07-Jun BROOK EDWARD 22 G L/CPL BUFFS - 1 BELGIUM
13-Jun LITTLEHALES RICHARD 33 BUL PTE COLDSTREAM GDS - 4 HOME
THOMAS 19-Jun OAKLEY BENJAMIN 37 S.OCK PTE ESSEX - 2 FRANCE
28-Jun BIRCH WILLIAM 19 G PTE ESSEX - 1 TURKEY
ALBERT 28-Jun DANIELS VICTOR 18 G PTE ESSEX - 1 TURKEY
JOHN 28-Jun WAKEFIELD SYDNEY 19 G PTE ESSEX - 1 TURKEY
28-Jun MAY LEONARD 21 W/TH PTE ESSEX - 1 TURKEY
Page 7 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 2
Minutes of the Meeting of Annual Council held on 27 May 2015 at 7.00 pm
Present: Councillors Steve Liddiard (Mayor), Sue Gray (Deputy Mayor), Tim Aker, Chris Baker, Jan Baker, Clare Baldwin, Terry Brookes, Russell Cherry, Colin Churchman, Mark Coxshall, Leslie Gamester, Oliver Gerrish, Robert Gledhill, Yash Gupta (MBE), Graham Hamilton, Garry Hague, James Halden, Shane Hebb, Terence Hipsey, Victoria Holloway, Barry Johnson, Roy Jones, Tom Kelly, John Kent, Cathy Kent, Martin Kerin, Charlie Key, Brian Little, Susan Little, Sue MacPherson, Ben Maney, Tunde Ojetola, Bukky Okunade, Barry Palmer, Jane Pothecary, Robert Ray, Joycelyn Redsell, Barbara Rice, Gerard Rice, Andrew Roast, Peter Smith, Graham Snell, Richard Speight, Deborah Stewart, Pauline Tolson, Michael Stone, Kevin Wheeler and Lynn Worrall
Apologies: Councillor James Baker
In attendance: Reverend Darren Barlow, Mayor’s Chaplain Graham Farrant, Chief Executive Steve Cox, Assistant Chief Executive Barbara Brownlee, Director of Housing - Thurrock Council David Bull, Director of Planning and Transportation Carmel Littleton, Director of Children’s Services Roger Harris, Director of Adults, Health and Commissioning Sean Clark, Head of Corporate Finance Mike Heath, Head of Environment Jackie Hinchliffe, Head of HR, OD & Transformation Karen Wheeler, Head of Strategy & Communications Fiona Taylor, Head of Legal and Democratic Services David Lawson, Deputy Head of Legal and Deputy Monitoring Officer Matthew Boulter, Principal Democratic Services Officer Stephanie Cox, Senior Democratic Services Officer
Before the start of the meeting, the Mayor invited Reverend Barlow to lead those present in prayer.
The Mayor then advised all present that the meeting may be filmed and was being recorded, with the audio recording to be made available on the Council’s website.
Councillor Liddiard, as the Mayor of Thurrock, took the Chair for Minute Nos. 1 and 2. Following the election of the Mayor of Thurrock, Councillor Gray took the Chair for the remainder of the business.
Page 9 1. Minutes
The Minutes of the meeting of Council, held on 25 March 2015, were approved as a correct record.
2. To elect and install the Mayor for the municipal year 2015-16
Nominations were invited for the election of Mayor for the Municipal Year 2015-16.
It was proposed by Councillor J. Kent, and seconded by Councillor Gledhill, that Councillor Gray be elected Mayor of the Borough and Chair of the Council for the Municipal Year 2015-16.
The Leader of the Opposition observed that Councillor Gray had served Thurrock well during her Deputy Mayor year and felt that it was fit and proper that the Deputy Mayor should be appointed Mayor.
Upon being put to the vote, Members voted unanimously in favour of the proposal, whereupon the Mayor declared this to be carried.
The Mayor declared that Councillor Gray had been duly elected as Mayor of the Borough and Chair of the Council for the Municipal Year 2015- 2016.
RESOLVED:
That Councillor Gray be duly elected as Mayor of the Borough and Chair of the Council for the Municipal Year 2015-16.
Councillor Gray signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office and also received the chains of office.
The Mayor presented Councillor Liddiard and his Mayoress, Mrs Patricia Forrester, with their past mayor’s badge and past consort’s badge.
The Mayor then made a short speech thanking the Council for the honour of being elected as the Mayor of Thurrock.
The Leader of the Council congratulated Councillor Gray for taking office and felt that she would be an outstanding Mayor for Thurrock, which had been affirmed by the support of all Members.
The Leader of the Council then paid tribute to the out-going Mayor, Councillor Liddiard, who had been an officer, Elected Member and Mayor for Thurrock. The Leader observed that Councillor Liddiard and his Mayoress, Mrs Patricia Forrester, had undertaken much positive work during the Mayoral year and that Councillor Liddiard was a great advocate and ambassador for Thurrock.
These sentiments were echoed by the Leader of the Opposition, the Leader of the UK Independence Party (UKIP) Group and Councillors Palmer and Ray,
Page 10 who all paid tribute to the positive work of Councillor Liddiard throughout his Mayoral year.
Councillor Liddiard spoke to give thanks to those who had assisted him in his Mayoral year, paying particular tribute to all the people who had helped raise over £15,000 for Thurrock Community Chest, and to all Members of the Council for giving him the honour and privilege of being elected as the Mayor of Thurrock.
Councillor Liddiard further thanked his Mayoress, Mrs Patricia Forrester, and Councillor Gray and her Consort, Mr Tony Lane, and wished them both every success in the forthcoming Mayoral year.
3. Items of Urgent Business
The Mayor informed the Council that she had not agreed to the consideration of any items of urgent business.
4. To elect and install the Deputy Mayor for the municipal year 2015-16
Nominations were invited for the election of Deputy Mayor for the Municipal Year 2015-16.
It was proposed by Councillor Gledhill, and seconded by Councillor Halden, that Councillor Ojetola be appointed Deputy Mayor of Thurrock for 2015-16.
It was then proposed by Councillor B. Rice, and seconded by Councillor G. Rice, that Councillor C. Kent be appointed Deputy Mayor of Thurrock for 2015-16.
The Leader of the Opposition asked that a requisition vote be conducted for this item, and in accordance with Procedure Rule 20.7, five Members stood (Councillors Hebb, Coxshall, Stewart, Johnson and Roast) and requested that the vote to the appointment of Deputy Mayor be recorded.
Councillor Coxshall called a Point of Order. The Mayor referenced Council Procedure Rule 19.30 which stated that a Point of Order may only relate to an alleged breach of the Council Procedure Rules or the law. The Mayor asked Councillor Coxshall to indicate the Rule or law and the way in which he considered it had been broken, following which Councillor Coxshall retracted the Point of Order.
The result of the recorded vote in respect of the Deputy Mayor for the municipal year 2015-16 was as follows:
Votes in favour of Councillor Ojetola:
Councillors Mark Coxshall, Robert Gledhill, Garry Hague, James Halden, Shane Hebb, Barry Johnson, Tom Kelly, Charlie Key, Brian Little, Susan Little, Sue MacPherson, Ben Maney, Tunde Ojetola, Barry Palmer, Robert
Page 11 Ray, Joycelyn Redsell, Andrew Roast, Deborah Stewart and Pauline Tolson (19).
Votes in favour of Councillor C. Kent:
Councillors Chris Baker, Jan Baker, Clare Baldwin, Terry Brookes, Russell Cherry, Colin Churchman, Leslie Gamester, Oliver Gerrish, Yash Gupta (MBE), Graham Hamilton, Terrence Hipsey, Victoria Holloway, Roy Jones, John Kent, Cathy Kent, Martin Kerin, Charlie Key, Bukky Okunade, Jane Pothecary, Barbara Rice, Gerard Rice, Peter Smith, Richard Speight, Michael Stone, Kevin Wheeler, Lynn Worrall and Sue Gray (28).
Abstentions:
Councillor Tim Aker (1).
The Mayor declared that Councillor C. Kent had been duly elected as Mayor of the Borough and Vice-Chair of the Council for the Municipal Year 2015- 2016.
RESOLVED:
That Councillor C. Kent be appointed Deputy Mayor of the Borough and Vice-Chair of the Council for the Municipal Year 2015-16.
Councillor C. Kent signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office and also received the chains of office.
Councillor C. Kent then made a short speech to accept the honour of being appointed as Deputy Mayor and advised that she wished to announce her Consort at the next meeting of Council.
5. Declaration of Interests
There were no interests declared.
6. To elect the Leader of the Council for a four-year term of office
Nominations were invited for the election of Leader of the Council.
It was proposed by Councillor B. Rice, and seconded by Councillor Worrall, that Councillor J. Kent be elected as Leader of the Council.
The Leader of the Opposition advised that due to the tight political balance of the Council he would not be contesting the position of Leader of the Council.
Upon being put to the vote, Members voted unanimously in favour of Councillor J. Kent to be elected as Leader of the Council, whereupon the Mayor announced that Councillor J. Kent had been duly elected as Leader of the Council.
Page 12 RESOLVED:
That Councillor J. Kent be duly elected as Leader of the Council for a four-year term of office.
The Mayor then invited the Councillor J. Kent to make any announcements he wished to make as Leader of the Council.
The Leader of the Council firstly provided an update on the sinkhole that had occurred in Hogg Lane that day and explained that the road remained closed, the 66 bus route had been changed and a traffic diversion was in place. He advised that the 66 bus route would be terminated at Grays but tickets to Lakeside would be valid and that bus users could connect to Lakeside via the 33, 73 or 83 bus routes.
The Leader of the Council further advised that geotechnical engineers were on site to identify the causes of the sinkhole in order that the damage could be repaired and the road reopened as soon as possible, but as there was no one constant solution to such sinkhole problems he remarked that investigations may take some time. He assured those present that he would keep everyone fully informed of developments as and when further information became available.
The Leader then made a speech to Council and welcomed the new Members to the Chamber regardless of the political parties they represented, and observed that it was at times a challenging role but also a very rewarding one as all Members wanted the best for the Borough.
The Leader remarked that the financial realities of Local Government would be challenging for Members as the government grant settlement for Thurrock had been reduced by over 50% since 2011 to deliver like-for-like services, the Council had faced a further 25% cut to its grant in 2014-15 compared to that it had received the previous year and an additional reduction in government grant of £10 million was expected in 2016-17.
The Leader of the Council paid tribute to the positive work of Graham Farrant, the departing Chief Executive, whose support and advice had been invaluable to Thurrock Council. He observed that Mr Farrant had created a model in Thurrock to follow and not to avoid, a voice of regeneration and a proactive and effective communicator with the community, partners and stakeholders. The Leader explained that it was imperative that the recruitment of the Chief Executive be agreed cross-party, and that both he and the other Group Leaders took this responsibility seriously.
The Leader of the Council then informed Members that he had circulated a written statement which set out the appointments he had made to the Cabinet, together with the details of their respective portfolios, and that Councillor Barbara Rice would be the Deputy Leader of the Council. The written
Page 13 statement was included in the supplementary information booklet that was circulated immediately prior to the meeting and read as follows:
Position Portfolio Holder Portfolio
Leader Councillor John Kent Finance and Education
Deputy Councillor Barbara Rice Adult Social Care & Health Leader
Councillor Lynn Worrall Housing
Councillor Richard Regeneration Speight
Councillor Victoria Central Services Holloway
Councillor Bukky Children’s Social Care Okunade
Councillor Oliver Gerrish Highways & Transportation
Councillor Gerard Rice Environment
Councillor Terry Brookes Communities and Public Protection
The Leader of the Council thanked Councillor B. Rice for all her continued work as Deputy Leader, and also paid tribute to Councillor Gledhill as Leader of the Opposition and Councillor Snell as Leader of the UK Independence Party (UKIP) as the evening’s uncontested Chair and Vice-Chair appointments were a sign of the positive developments which had been made.
7. Announcements on behalf of the Mayor or the Leader of the Council
The Mayor was pleased to announce that Mr Tony Lane had agreed to be her Consort. Mr Lane was asked to step forward and receive the Consort’s Chain.
The Mayor reaffirmed that the Deputy Mayor intended to announce who her Consort would be at the next meeting of Council.
The Mayor announced that her main charity for the Mayoral year would be Thurrock Community Chest, which had offered a brilliant service to local groups, organisations and people since it had been created by a past Mayor 15 years ago.
Page 14 Furthermore, the Mayor announced that her Mayoral Chaplain would be Reverend Darren Barlow.
8. To Appoint the Interim Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service
The Mayor advised that the report had been published as a supplementary agenda item online, circulated by email to Members and hard copies tabled at the meeting. She further informed the Chamber that the Council was required to appoint a Head of Paid Service under Section 4 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and that Thurrock Council had been designated this function under Article 4 of the Constitution.
Councillor J. Kent, the Leader of the Council, introduced the report which recommended that David Bull be appointed as Interim Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service, which was seconded by Councillor Gledhill. He thanked the Members of the General Services Committee for their time as the meeting had been convened at relatively short notice.
In introducing the report Councillor J. Kent observed that David Bull had an impressive employment history and extraordinary contacts, and the Committee were in agreement that Mr Bull was the right candidate for the job until a permanent replacement could be appointed. He added that he had every confidence in Mr Bull to ensure an uninterrupted transition.
Councillor Gledhill, the Leader of the Opposition, paid tribute to the work of the departing Chief Executive, Mr Farrant, who he felt had made many positive developments for Thurrock and secured millions of pounds of additional government funding. He echoed the sentiments raised by Councillor J. Kent regarding the interim appointment of Mr Bull, who he felt had the passion to start the process and observed that the co-operation and agreement cross-party should make it easier to recruit a permanent candidate.
Upon being put to the vote, Members voted unanimously in favour of the recommendation, whereupon the Mayor declared this to be carried.
RESOLVED:
That David Bull be appointed as Interim Chief Executive (and Head of Paid Service) of Thurrock Council with effect from 1 June 2015.
9. Appointment of Monitoring Officer
The Mayor advised that the report had been published as a supplementary agenda item online, circulated by email to Members and hard copies tabled at the meeting.
The Leader of the Council briefly introduced the report which sought to make arrangements for the General Services Committee to consider the
Page 15 replacement of the Monitoring Officer before it formally made a recommendation back to Council.
The Leader of the Council informed Members that the current Monitoring Officer was the Head of Legal Services across Thurrock Council, the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham and Brentwood Borough Council and that it was now being proposed that each Borough to have its own dedicated Monitoring Officer.
Upon being put to the vote, Members voted unanimously in favour of the recommendation, whereupon the Mayor declared this to be carried
RESOLVED:
That the General Services Committee to consider and make arrangements for the replacement of the Monitoring Officer.
10. Committees and their Terms of Reference
The Leader of the Council proposed the recommendations as printed in the report.
Upon being put to the vote, Members voted unanimously in favour of the recommendations, whereupon the Mayor declared these to be carried.
RESOLVED:
1. That the Overview and Scrutiny Committees listed in paragraph 3.2 of the report be established for the 2015-16 municipal year, with their terms of reference being those set out in Chapter 4 of the Constitution.
2. That the Committees listed in paragraph 3.4 of the report be established for the 2015-16 municipal year, with their terms of reference being those set out in Chapter 5 of the Constitution.
11. Allocation of committee seats and committee appointments
The Mayor informed Members that the nominations of Group Leaders to the places allocated on committees, and, the nominations for Chairs and Vice Chairs of committees had been received.
The nominations made to Committees for the municipal year 2015-16, together with the nominations for the positions of Chair and Vice Chair, were set out in a booklet circulated to Members immediately prior to the meeting.
The Mayor advised the Chamber that the political balance calculations as printed in the original report and Appendix 1 had changed due to membership of political groups. As a result the Mayor advised that a revised report and Appendix 1, with the amended political balance calculations for approval, had
Page 16 been published online, circulated to Members by email and tabled at the meeting.
The Leader of the Council briefly introduced the report, which requested the Council to confirm the calculations relating to the allocation of seats on committees and also to appoint the nominations made by political groups to committees. In addition, the report also requested the Council to appoint the Chairs and Vice-Chairs of certain committees which were all uncontested appointments and detailed in the tabled supplementary booklet.
The Leader of the Opposition informed the Chamber that he still had difficulty in the proposal of the Labour Group to retain one of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee Chair appointments but that he hoped this year was a sign of new things to come.
The Mayor informed the Chamber that as the appointments were uncontested she wished to take a single vote on recommendations 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 and 1.5.
Upon being put to the vote, Members voted unanimously in favour of recommendations, whereupon the Mayor declared these to be carried.
RESOLVED:
1. That the allocation of seats, as set out in Appendix 1, be approved.
2. That the nominations of the political groups to seats on committees be approved, as set out in Appendix 2.
3. That, further to recommendation 1.2 above, those Members appointed to the following committees be required to undertake a DBS check prior to taking their seats:
Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee Health and Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee Standards and Audit Committee Corporate Parenting Committee
4. That the non-voting co-opted members of the Planning Committee, the Standards and Audit Committee, the Health and Well-being Overview and Scrutiny Committee, the Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Corporate Parenting Committee be appointed, as set out in Appendix 2.
5. That the Chairs and Vice Chairs of Committees be appointed as set out below:
Page 17 Committee Chair Vice-Chair
Children’s Services Councillor Halden Councillor Gupta Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Cleaner, Greener Councillor Jones Councillor Baldwin and Safer Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Corporate Overview Councillor Hebb Councillor Snell and Scrutiny Committee
Corporate Parenting Councillor S. Little Councillor Okunade Committee
General Services Councillor J. Kent Councillor Gledhill Committee
Health and Councillor B. Rice No Vice-Chair Wellbeing Board*
*The Chair will be the Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health and shall be appointed by the Council
Health and Councillor Snell Councillor Pothecary Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Housing Overview Councillor C. Kent Councillor Chris and Scrutiny Baker Committee
Licensing Councillor Stone Councillor Jones Committee
Planning Committee Councillor Hipsey Councillor Kelly
Planning, Transport Councillor B. Little Councillor Kerin and Regeneration Overview and Scrutiny Committee
Page 18 Standards and Audit Councillor Coxshall Councillor Hamilton Committee
12. Appointments to Outside Bodies, Statutory and other Panels
The nominations of the political groups to Outside Bodies, Statutory and Other Panels were detailed in the supplementary booklet circulated to Members immediately prior to the meeting.
The Mayor informed the Chamber that appointments to the following outside bodies, statutory and other panels were contested:
Coalhouse Fort Project East Thurrock Community Association Impulse Leisure Local Government Association General Assembly South Ockendon Community Forum
The Mayor called for a vote in respect of the nominations to Outside Bodies, Statutory and Other Panels that had not been contested. Members voted unanimously in favour of the nominations made, whereupon the Mayor declared these to be carried.
Councillor Snell informed the Mayor that he wished to withdraw the nomination of Councillor James Baker made by the UKIP Group to the Coalhouse Fort Project so that that the appointment of Councillor C. Kent would be uncontested.
Councillor Snell further informed the Mayor that he wished to withdraw the nomination of Councillor Jones made by the UKIP Group to the East Thurrock Community Association so that that the appointment of Councillor Hebb would be uncontested.
Councillor J. Kent proposed that as the number of places available on the Local Government General Assembly was funded by the local authority, that an additional place be funded by the Council to enable all four of the proposed appointments to be made, thereby resulting in uncontested appointments. Members unanimously indicated their agreement to this proposal.
Councillor J. Kent also informed the Mayor that he wished to withdraw the nomination of Councillor Brookes made by the Labour Group to the South Ockendon Community Forum so that that the appointment of Councillors Wheeler and Chris Baker would be uncontested.
Councillor Ojetola questioned the contention of the Impulse Leisure appointment as he believed he had been appointed to Impulse Leisure for a period of 4 years and therefore the appointment could not be contested.
Page 19 In response Councillor Snell advised that he wished to withdraw the UKIP nomination of Councillor Hamilton to this appointment, so the position would not be contested.
The Mayor advised that following the changes detailed above there were no longer any contested appointments to the nominations to Outside Bodies, Statutory and Other Panels. Members voted unanimously in favour of the nominations made, whereupon the Mayor declared these to be carried.
RESOLVED:
1. That the uncontested nominations to Outside Bodies, Statutory and Other Panels, as circulated during the meeting, be approved.
2. That Councillor Cathy Kent be appointed as the representative of the Council on the Coalhouse Fort Project.
3. That Councillor Hebb be appointed as the representative of the Council on the East Thurrock Community Association.
4. That Councillor Ojetola remain as the representative of the Council on Impulse Leisure for the remainder of his term of office.
5. That an additional place on the Local Government Association General Assembly be funded by the authority and the following four members be appointed as representatives of the Council:
Councillor J. Kent Councillor Liddiard Councillor Coxshall Councillor Smith
6. That Councillor Chris Baker and Councillor Wheeler be appointed as the representatives of the Council on the South Ockendon Community Forum.
7. That, further to recommendation 1.1 above, those Members appointed to the following Outside Bodies, Statutory and Other Panels be required to undertake a DBS check prior to taking up their role:
Adoption Panel Fostering Panel
13. Schedule of meetings 2015-16
The Leader of the Council briefly introduced the report. A copy of the schedule of meetings for 2015-16 was included in the Agenda at Appendix 1 to the report.
Page 20 Upon being put to the vote, Members voted unanimously in favour of the recommendation to approve the calendar of meetings for 2015-16, whereupon the Mayor declared this to be carried.
RESOLVED:
That the Calendar of Meetings for 2015-16 be approved.
14. Schedule of elections and order of retirement of Councillors
The Leader of the Council briefly introduced the report.
Upon being put to the vote, Members voted unanimously in favour of the recommendation contained within the report, whereupon the Mayor declared this to be carried.
RESOLVED:
That the schedule of elections from 2016 to 2019 and order of retirement of Councillors be noted.
The meeting finished at 8.09 pm
Approved as a true and correct record
CHAIR
DATE
Any queries regarding these Minutes, please contact Democratic Services at [email protected]
Page 21 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 6
ITEM 6
QUESTIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
There are two questions from members of the public.
1. From Mr Watts to Councillor J Kent
“Is the Council aware of the distress caused to vulnerable and disabled Thurrock residents brought about by the reduction in transport services provided by Trans-Vol due to the reduction in the services support grant.
As a temporary measure would the Leader move an amendment to the Council’s budget that reduces the basic allowance for all Councillors by £500.00 and for the sum so raised to be added to the Trans-Vol grant for the current year?”
2. From Mr Perrin to Councillor J Kent
“I believe it is current practice that when a child in Council care reaches the age of 16 they are classed as young adults and are required to leave the protection of child care and make their own way in adult society. I am sure that most Councillors will agree that 16 is still a very young age and is a time fraught with danger for young adults when they are most vulnerable. So I ask, does the Council continue to monitor the well-being and safety of young adults when they leave the care system and are you and your colleagues satisfied no young adult leaving care is abandoned and left to fend for themselves?”
Page 23 This page is intentionally left blank Item 8: Petitions Update Report – 24 June 2015
Petition Description Presented Portfolio Status No. by Holder Full copies of the responses may be (and date) obtained from Democratic Services
We the undersigned, are concerned about The Anti-Social element of this petition has 446 08/01/2015 Cllr Brookes the constant need for police attendance at a been referred to the local Neighbourhood property within the Little Thurrock Presented by Policing Team. Information is also being Blackshots Ward. This house is neglected Councillor cross-checked in regards to noise complaints and sometimes noisy, including the Redsell to identify the most appropriate course of occasional use of a quad-bike. action from the Environmental Protection team. We the undersigned, all tenants residing at 447 21/01/2015 Cllr Worrall A full response has been sent for this petition the Dexter Close Sheltered Housing explaining the changes that have happened
Page 25 Page Presented by Complex, wish to make it clear our distress within Sheltered Housing and the reasons for a resident and upset regarding the withdrawal of the the changes. full time Warden service. Specific issues have been addressed at a meeting between the Sheltered Housing Manager and tenants and Dexter Close to try to allay any concerns that they have. We, the undersigned, ask Thurrock Council 448 Presented by Cllr Gerrish Officers are drawing up proposals in to propose and consult on a painted yellow Cllr Hebb at consultation with the Council’s Housing Agenda Item 8 line plan for Hardie Road/Bevin Walk, with a Council on Directorate prior to local public consultation. view of implementing on confirmation that 28/01/15 residents are content with the council's proposals to address the matter. We the undersigned, all tenants residing at 449 04/02/2015 Cllr Worrall Petition just received after verification. the Attlee Court Sheltered Housing Response will be written regarding the Complex, wish to make it clear our distress changes made to Sheltered Housing. and upset regarding the withdrawal of the full time Warden Service. A tenants meeting will be arranged regarding specific issues for Attlee Court to allay any * indicates petitions handed in at the Civic Offices or e-petitions - not presented at Council Item 8: Petitions Update Report – 24 June 2015
concerns.
450 We the undersigned, demand that the 25/02/2015 Cllr J. Kent A full response is being prepared to send to Library Service investigate imaginative Presented by the petitioner. Over 3000 responses were library provision rather than the suggestions received by the council in response to the a resident included in the ‘Future of Library Service’ consultation about the future shape of the survey and are against the proposal for library service. All responses have been closure of libraries including the mobile carefully considered and will inform the library changes which will need to be made to the library service to ensure it has a vibrant future in the face of budget reductions to meet the savings required by local government. Additional uses for library buildings to generate income, shared use of facilities and Page 26 Page the transformation of libraries into community hubs are all being planned. A late submission to the consultation regarding the mobile library is also being considered although current plans are to publicise the Homelink home delivery service to replace the mobile library, which has become in need of costly repair. 451 We the undersigned, residents of London Presented by Cllr Gerrish This matter is being investigated. Road call upon Thurrock Council to improve Cllr Baldwin residents parking facilities. There are at Council on parking problems being caused by parking 25/02/2015 from the users of the Sure Start Centre and
the Local Doctors Surgery 452 We the undersigned, being residents of Presented by Cllr J. Kent A full response to the petitioner is currently East Tilbury and/or users of East Tilbury Cllr Palmer at being prepared. The decision of the March Library, petition and request Thurrock Council on 2015 Cabinet meeting was to support the Council to ensure that no cuts are made at 25/02/2015 recommendation that no library will close in East Tilbury Library to either staffing and/or 2014/15. Due to the level of savings to be
* indicates petitions handed in at the Civic Offices or e-petitions - not presented at Council Item 8: Petitions Update Report – 24 June 2015
current opening hours. achieved no guarantee can be given regarding reductions in staffing or hours, however the council is working to minimise any impact to residents.
453 We the undersigned, wish to protest Presented by Cllr Gerrish A revised 374 bus service will start on the 5th strongly about the Council’s decision to Cllr S. Little May to link East Tilbury and Linford to Grays withdraw the 374 bus and want them to at Council on and Stanford-le-Hope. This is a commercial carry on running what is a lifeline to 25/02/2015 service with a revenue contribution from the Basildon and Orsett Hospitals. Council. The 265 service will now go to Horndon-on-the-Hill.
Page 27 Page 454 This petition has been started by the people Submitted by Cllr Gerrish A revised 374 bus service will start on the 5th of East Tilbury and Linford to save the bus Cllr Palmer May to link East Tilbury and Linford to Grays that serves the villages. This bus is on and Stanford-le-Hope. This is a commercial essential to the residents, young and old for 25/02/2015 service with a revenue contribution from the schools, college, hospital, shopping and Council. The 265 service will now go to access to chemists and dentists. Horndon-on-the-Hill.
455 Save Our Thurrock Libraries Presented by Cllr J. Kent A full response to the petitioner is currently Cllr Speight being prepared. In 2014/15 none of the 9 We, the undersigned, oppose the closure of at Council on libraries will close and the council is working any of our 9 Thurrock Libraries. We also 25/02/2015 to minimise cuts to library services. No library oppose: will be run solely by volunteers and the Any significant cuts to the library valuable contribution of trained staff is services in all 9 Thurrock Libraries. acknowledged. The mobile library service is The proposal of libraries being run due to be replaced by the Home Link service solely by volunteers, as trained staff which will enable books and other items to be are essential to run our libraries on a delivered to residents homes. The local day to day basis. Authority continues to be committed to ensuring a service is provided to our most * indicates petitions handed in at the Civic Offices or e-petitions - not presented at Council Item 8: Petitions Update Report – 24 June 2015
vulnerable and isolated residents by The withdrawal of the mobile library expanding the Home Link service. service, which serve the most vulnerable and isolated of our community.
456 This is a Petition from the residents of 09/03/2015 Cllr Gerrish This matter is being investigated to assess Manor Road, Grays, RM17 6EF to state that Submitted feasibility. we would like our road to be a resident online by a parking only with Aid of Permits for all resident. residents and also with Visitor Permits.
457 Concern that the level of traffic at the “Cross Presented by Cllr Gerrish The Council is aware of the difficulties Page 28 Page Keys” junction needs to be regulated by the Cllr B. Rice at experienced at the cross keys signalised traffic lights in situ so as to avoid potentially Council on junction following requests by the Chadwell dangerous situations arising in which 25/03/2015 Forum for alterations to the signals operation. vehicles attempting to turn right across the junction. In 2014/15 the Council commissioned a report to investigate the junction with a view to making improvements. The results have been reviewed and a delegated decision report will be prepared for consideration by the Councillor with the Portfolio Holder for Highways and Transport.
Regarding parking issues, Linford Road has parking restrictions from the Cross Keys across the frontage of the Church but the remaining section of road to the East does not. Brentwood Road currently has HGV waiting restrictions (in excess of 7.5t). The parking section regularly carry out enforcement and issue Penalty Charge Notices in this area. * indicates petitions handed in at the Civic Offices or e-petitions - not presented at Council Item 8: Petitions Update Report – 24 June 2015
The proposal to introduce a 7.5t weight restriction on Linford Road to 100 metres East of Cole Avenue is not feasible. Currently the HGV route to the industrial area off Linford Road is via the principal road network, i.e. the A13, A1089 Dock Road approach road, Marsh Foot Road, Chadwell Hill and Linford Road. The Council does not have plans to introduce a weight restriction in Linford Road because HGV’s have a right of access to premises within these areas.
Local bus services are not something
Page 29 Page 458 We, the undersigned being residents of Presented by Cllr Gerrish Horndon on the Hill and/or users of the 374 a resident at Councils have to support by law, although bus service, petition and request Thurrock Council on some, like Thurrock, choose to assist Council to reconsider their decision to axe 25/03/2015 residents by subsidising services in areas the 374 bus service via Orsett Hospital and where there is little or no privately-financed Horndon on the Hill. public transport. However, every area of Council spending is coming under increasing scrutiny and pressure to make reductions in spending and the bus subsidy is no exception. We would have liked to have kept all three of our subsidised routes operating and we have been working very hard to find other funding streams to do that.
The Council is funding service 11 and 265 and has now agreed a small payment for service 374. There will now be 8 return trips per day between Basildon and Grays via East Tilbury every 90 minutes. Saturday will also * indicates petitions handed in at the Civic Offices or e-petitions - not presented at Council Item 8: Petitions Update Report – 24 June 2015
offer the same journeys with 4 return trips per day every 3 hours. The new 374 is a commercial service and unfortunately the operator did not include Horndon on the Hill in the route as he felt that the number of trips would not benefit this service remaining commercial.
However, Trans Vol, the winning bidder of service 265 (Bulphan to Grays via Orsett Hospital) has offered to visit both Horndon on the Hill and Stanford Le Hope a limited service at no extra cost to the Council. Residents will now have a weekday service Page 30 Page of 4 return trips per day and access at either Grays or Stanford Le Hope for ongoing services.
* indicates petitions handed in at the Civic Offices or e-petitions - not presented at Council Agenda Item 10
24 June 2015 ITEM: 10 Council The Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2015 – Appointment and Dismissal of Senior Officers
Wards and communities affected: Key Decision: All Non-Key
Report of: Fiona Taylor, Head of Legal & Monitoring Officer
Accountable Head of Service: Fiona Taylor, Head of Legal & Monitoring Officer
Accountable Director: David Bull, Interim Chief Executive
This report is public
Executive Summary
To amend the Council’s Procedure Rules to make changes to the procedure for disciplining and dismissing senior officers in accordance with the Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (‘the Regulations’), which came into force on 11th May 2015.
1. Recommendation(s)
1.1 That Council approve the modifications to Council Procedure Rules (Chapter 10 – Officer Employment Procedure Rules of the Constitution) in relation to the appointment and dismissal of senior officers.
2. Introduction and Background
2.1 The Constitution is the set of rules that describe and constrain how the Council operates, how its decisions are made and the procedures to be followed.
2.2 The Council is required by common law and statute (principally the Local Government Acts 1972 and 2000, and the Local Government and Housing Act 1989) to regulate its proceedings and to have an up to date Constitution which is fit for purpose.
2.3 These regulations came into force from the 11th May 2015 and required the Council no later than its first ordinary meeting falling after the 11 May 2015 to incorporate changes in respect of disciplinary action against the Head of Paid
Page 31 Service, Monitoring Officer and Chief Finance Officer into its standing orders. A copy of the revised Chapter 10 – Officer Employment Procedure Rules of the Constitution is attached at Appendix A.
3. Issues, Options and Analysis of Options
3.1 The Regulations simplify and localise the disciplinary process for the most senior members of a council, i.e. the Head of Paid Service, the Monitoring Officer and the Chief Finance Officer. They remove the current requirement that a Designated Independent Person (DIP) be appointed to investigate and make a binding recommendation on disciplinary action against these senior officers.
3.2 The Government states that the Regulations simplify the processes for dismissing the most senior council staff, in particular putting any decisions fully in the hands of the Council’s Members who are accountable to their electorate for the decisions they take. With the new arrangements in place, the Government expects that the performance management of the most senior staff will be both more effective and efficient with potentially lower costs in the case of departures/dismissals than currently.
3.3 The Regulations provide that, in place of the DIP process, the decision should be taken transparently by Full Council, who must consider any advice, views or recommendations from an independent panel, the conclusions of any investigation into the proposed dismissal, and any representations from the officer concerned.
3.4 In the case of a proposed disciplinary action against one of these officers, the Council is required to invite Independent Persons who have been appointed under the Members’ Code of Conduct regime (Section 28(7) of the Localism Act 2011) to form an independent panel. The Council currently has 3 Independent Persons. An independent panel will be formed if 2 or more Independent Persons accept the invitations, and the Council should issue invitations in the following priority order:
An Independent Person who has been appointed by the Council and who is a local government elector; Any other Independent Person who has been appointed by the Council; and An Independent Person who has been appointed by another council or councils.
3.5 These requirements allow local people to be involved in the disciplinary process for senior officers and makes councils more accountable to the community.
Page 32 4. Reasons for Recommendation
4.1 It is a legal requirement that the Council has a Constitution that accords with statute.
5. Consultation (including Overview and Scrutiny, if applicable)
5.1 Full Council
6. Impact on corporate policies, priorities, performance and community impact
6.1 It is a legal requirement that the Council has a Constitution that accords with statute, the intent of these regulations is to simplify these procedures and make the council more accountable to the local community
7. Implications
7.1 Financial
Implications verified by: Sean Clark Chief Finance Officer
No resources will be required in relation to the changes.
7.2 Legal
Implications verified by: David Lawson Deputy Head of Legal
It is a legal requirement that the Council has a Constitution that accords with statute.
7.3 Diversity and Equality
Implications verified by: David Lawson Deputy Head of Legal
No impact has been identified arising from these legislative changes.
7.4 Other implications (where significant) – i.e. Staff, Health, Sustainability, Crime and Disorder)
None
8. Background papers used in preparing the report (including their location on the Council’s website or identification whether any are exempt or protected by copyright):
Page 33 The Constitution Local Authorities (Standing Orders) (England) Regulations 2015
9. Appendices to the report
Appendix 1 – Amended Terms of Reference (General Services Committee) and Officer Employment Procedure Rules
Report Author:
David Lawson Deputy Head of Legal & Deputy Monitoring Officer Legal Services
Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Agenda Item 11
24 June 2015 ITEM: 11 Council Housing Revenue Account – Housing Development Programme Phase 2
Wards and communities affected: Key Decision: All Key
Report of: Councillor Lynn Worrall, Portfolio Holder for Housing
Accountable Head of Service: Kathryn Adedeji, Head of Housing Investment and Development and Corporate Commercial Services
Accountable Director: Barbara Brownlee, Director of Housing
This report is Public
Executive Summary
Councillors unanimously agreed the following recommendations at the meeting of Cabinet on 10 June 2015:
Note the additional resources which have been obtained to assist with the funding of the second phase of HRA housing development sites which are now ready to be committed as part of the new build development programme within the HRA development reserve and borrowing cap.
To approve proceeding to tender, and delegation to the Director of Housing to the award of contracts, in consultation with the Portfolio holder, for specialist services and construction partners to support the delivery of phase 2 of the Housing Development Programme,
This report sets out details of, and seeks approval to, a second phase of new development activity following successful bids for additional grant and loan funding made in 2014.
The report proposes that the Council should look to utilise the framework agreements procured in 2014 for HRA contracts wherever possible but that authority should be delegated to the Director of Housing to determine the final procurement route.
Page 39 1. Recommendations
That Council:
1.1 Note the additional resources which have been obtained to assist with the funding of the second phase of HRA housing development sites which are now ready to be committed as part of the new build development programme within the HRA development reserve and borrowing cap.
1.2 Agree that the second phase of the HRA housing development programme be included in the Housing Capital programme.
2. Introduction and Background
2.1 Cabinet has received previous reports in 2013 and 2014 on the housing development programme and objectives for the programme have been agreed as follows:
1. To achieve 1,000 new homes in the next 5 years which are: high quality and affordable, include a range of tenures, linked to estate regeneration opportunities
2. To explore options for further funding to extend the resources of the HRA.
2.2 The first five schemes are progressing well and Seabrooke Rise, Grays and the specialist HAPPI (Housing Our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation) housing at Derry Avenue in South Ockendon are due to start handing over later this year. Bracelet Close in Corringham is on site and the Empty Homes initiative (which replaced the former garage sites now being included in phase 2) has resulted in a number of acquisitions for properties suitable for inclusion in the housing stock and the roll out of a programme, jointly with the probation service, of training and re-habilitation for ex-offenders. Following consultation in Tilbury the Calcutta Road site is now being progressed as a second HAPPI scheme. Together these sites will deliver some 160 homes.
2.3 In July and December 2014 Cabinet noted and approved the funding opportunities for which the Council was bidding to increase the resources available to the Housing Revenue Account and, as a result of the success of these, a second phase of schemes are now ready to progress through to procurement. These schemes are all linked to the regeneration opportunities being progressed on the Council estates and are in line with the regeneration master planning taking place in Grays Riverside, Purfleet, South Ockendon and elsewhere.
Page 40 3. Issues, Options and Analysis of Options
3.1 Successful bids for additional funding for the HRA development programme are as follows:
HRA Phase 2 Development Programme
No of Bid Programme Funding (£M) Outcome Units HCA Funding (schemes in Grant to Chadwell St Mary and South £4.57m** c140 Successful Council Ockendon) Increase HRA Extra Borrowing in HRA (schemes in Grays and £11.58m 193 Successful Borrowin Purfleet) g Cap Total Phase 2 £16.15m c333 Practical support and Housing Zones (specific Loans to regeneration Up to Successful schemes to be identified) partners to be 5,199 identified **Note – we are currently in discussions regarding increasing this amount.
3.2 In addition, some 200 dwellings are proposed for development through the Council’s wholly owned company, Gloriana Thurrock Ltd. Including these with the HRA development programme, the overall position against our target of 1000 affordable homes is as follows:
Development Programme No Dwgs Completion by HRA Phase 1 Programme 160 2016/17 HRA Phase 2 Programme c333 2018/19 Gloriana Programme 215 2018/19 Total c700
3.3 This second phase of schemes includes the possibility of joint working with the private sector and also with Gloriana. They will include also specific proposals for low cost sale options including shared ownership and custom and self build schemes as well as affordable rent. Under recent government legislation all councils are now required to keep a register of those interested in custom and self build and it is our intention to develop a demonstration scheme which will showcase the potential for self build in Thurrock.
3.4 Elsewhere on this agenda a report on another successful bid to the Social Mobility Fund highlights the work we are doing to promote owner occupation
Page 41 as a means of addressing both under and over occupation of our housing stock. This initiative together with the phase 2 development programme will enhance the opportunities for Thurrock residents to access housing across a range of tenures and a further report will be made to Cabinet shortly regarding low cost home ownership initiatives which we are investigating.
3.5 Indicative cost estimates for the second phase of development sites have been prepared and are detailed in the Appendix. In total the estimated cost can be funded from within the HRA resources for the next five years, after taking into consideration the additional funding obtained. However, the timetable for taking up this additional funding is critical and therefore it is important that rapid progress is made with these schemes. Architects and other appropriate technical staff need to be appointed to progress scheme design and secure planning consent leading to tender of works contracts and commencement on site of the first schemes early in 2016.
3.6 Since the first phase of development was commenced, the Council has put in place its own Framework arrangements for the appointment of consultants and contractors where EU procurement directives apply. Therefore it is proposed that, as a general rule, the Council’s Frameworks will be used for the procurement of consultants and contractors for this second phase of development schemes.
4. Reasons for Recommendation
4.1 Rapid progress with a second phase of HRA housing development activity is now required if the Council is to meet its affordable housing targets and take up the additional funding for which successful bids have been made.
4.2 The report therefore proposes that delegated authority is given to the Director of Housing to proceed to procurement for specialist services and contractors for second phase schemes.
5. Consultation (including Overview and Scrutiny, if applicable)
5.1 Consultation regarding the Housing development programme has taken place with members and residents over the last year and is monitored by the Housing Development Board which includes cross party representatives and residents. In addition, public consultation with local residents and stakeholders has or will take place for each proposed development scheme as it comes forward and as part of the scheme design and planning approval processes.
6. Impact on corporate policies, priorities, performance and community impact
6.1 Achieving the target of 1000 new affordable homes over five years is a key priority and part of the Council’s overall growth targets and corporate objectives, helping to deliver improved health and wellbeing, build pride in our
Page 42 communities and their environment and promote skills development and job creation.
7. Implications
7.1 Financial
Implications verified by: Michael Jones Management Accountant
These schemes will be funded within the HRA and have been brought forward in response to the successful bids which have been made to the HCA and DCLG for grant and loan funding. The balance can be funded via either the reserves or prudential borrowing within the HRA debt cap, as increased by the successful bid described in this report.
7.2 Legal
Implications verified by: Assaf Chaudry Major Projects Solicitor
These schemes will be developed as part of the Housing development programme and will be subject to a tendering process compliant with the Public Contract Regulations 2006 (as amended), the EU regulations and the Council’s constitution. Legal Services, working with the Council’s procurement officers will provide ongoing advice and assistance in relation to these legislative requirements. In addition Legal Services will advise in relation to requirements in relation to planning, consultation and due process.
7.3 Diversity and Equality
Implications verified by: Teresa Evans Equalities and Cohesion Officer Consultation regarding the Housing development programme has been undertaken with members and residents over the last year and is monitored by the Housing Development Board. The proposals will have positive impact on the availability of affordable housing in Thurrock, including for vulnerable groups and will be developed in full consultation with all stakeholders. All new housing will be to a high quality and design and construction standards and contractors will be required to have relevant policies on equal opportunities, be able to demonstrate commitment to equality and diversity and to supporting local labour initiatives that achieve additional social value.
7.4 Other implications (where significant) – i.e. Staff, Health, Sustainability, Crime and Disorder)
None
Page 43 8. Background papers used in preparing the report
Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) – Affordable Homes Programme 2015-18, Cabinet Report, July 2014 Progress Report on Housing Estate Regeneration and Local Growth Fund Bids, Cabinet Report, December 2014
9. Appendices to the report
None
Report Author:
Kathryn Adedeji Head of Housing Investment and Development Housing
Page 44 Agenda Item 12
24 June 2015 ITEM: 12 Council School Capital Programme Update
Wards and communities affected: Key Decision: All Key
Report of: Councillor John Kent, Portfolio Holder for Education
Accountable Head of Service: N/A
Accountable Director: Carmel Littleton, Director of Children’s Services
This report is Public
Executive Summary
The council’s school capital programme is developed following extensive pupil place planning to assess likely demand. The current programme aims to deliver sufficient pupil places for the 2015 and 2016 academic years. This report seeks Council approval to procure a Specialist Project Team for the re- commissioning of the former Knightsmead School complete with new link to the Somers Heath building to allow for the expansion of Somers Heath School from a 1FE to a form 2 FE Primary school which would provide an additional 210 school places. Design feasibility studies are currently underway at the time of writing this report, initial indications are that this project will have an estimated provisional total value of £2.5M. This report provides an update highlighting projects managed by Thurrock Council and schemes managed externally which all form part of the school capital programme along with schemes managed highlighting the considerable and continued progress that has been achieved since the last report to Cabinet in December 2014. This report also provides an update of the provision of temporary accommodation to ensure sufficient pupil places for September 2015.
1. Recommendations
1.1 For Council to amend Cabinets decision made on the 9th April 2014 to return the Knightsmead site transferred to Housing by giving this site back to Education so that additional school places in the Aveley/South Ockendon area can be provided.
Page 45 1.2 To approve a £2.5M budget for the re-commissioning of Knightsmead School and the provision of a link building to Somers Heath School to be funded from the School’ Basic Need capital funding 2015/16 & 2016/17.
1.3 Approve the commencement of the procurement process in accordance with Council & EU procurement procedures to appoint Specialist Project Teams, for the School Improvement Programme and appoint the Principal Contractors to take forward the proposed schemes.
1.4 That authority be delegated to the Director of Children’s Services, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Holder, to enter into any form of agreement following the award of the agreements arsing from 1.3 above in compliance with the Council’s procurement regulations.
1.5 Council notes updates on Capital Programme Schemes for 2014/15 & 2015/16.
1.6 Council notes temporary accommodation and the re-modelling of school accommodation to build in capacity to meet increase in demand for pupil places from September 2015.
2. Introduction and Background
2.1 The local authority has a statutory responsibility to ensure that suitable and sufficient places are available in Thurrock for every child of school age whose parents wish them to have one.
The 2014/15 school capital programme progressed well and incorporated innovative partnership working to deliver the identified additional pupil places required.
2.2 The provision of additional accommodation to meet the predicted increase in pupil numbers has generated positive feedback from schools, particularly in relation to the impact on learning through improvements to the built environment.
2.3 The demand for pupil places has increased significantly, over the last few months we have seen a large increase in ‘in term’ admissions from families moving into the Authority. In 2013/14, 209 children moved into Thurrock from outside of the UK, and 590 from elsewhere within the UK. For the first five months of this year, 199 more children have moved into Thurrock from outside of the UK, and there have been 493 new arrivals from within the UK. The demand does not appear to be slowing, and this level of demand has not been seen before. To be in a position to accommodate this demand, we are building in an additional 7% of surplus places on top of the forecasts contained within the Pupil Place Planning document to allow us to be
Page 46 proactive rather than reactive to growing additional pressures mid academic year.
2.4 Knightsmead Site and Somers Heath School At its meeting on the 9th April 2014, as an element of the decision to relocate the Pupil Support Service to a new building on the former Jack Lobley School site in Tilbury, Cabinet resolved that the former Knightsmead School site be declared surplus and be disposed of. However following the annual review of forecasts for pupil places and the large increase being experienced with regards in-year admissions there is educational need for additional places in the Aveley/Ockendon area. Council is requested to amend this decision and retain the land for educational purposes. This change, if agreed, will be reported to Cabinet in a future asset management update report.
2.5 The proposal is to re-commission the old Knightsmead site which was a previous special school and provide a link building to expand the current Somers Heath school from a 1FE to a 2FE school. This will provide much needed accommodation and cater for an additional 210 pupils in this area.
2.6 A multi- disciplinary team providing specialist services needs to be engaged to oversee the re-commissioning of the Knightsmead site and accompanying link building joining both sites.
2.7 Initial scoping and feasibility studies are being carried out to look at possible design options and affordability.
2.8 A new JCT framework agreement competitively procured and evaluated on both quality and price will provide opportunities for improving quality and value for money. It will give the Council the flexibility to award individual elements of construction projects on an individual basis without any guarantee of future work. This approach will result in a greater level of control being retained within the authority, and will not tie the council into any single provider.
3. Update on School Capital Programme Schemes
3.1 The 2014/15 school capital programme consisted of eight projects in Thurrock primary schools. This extensive programme is now reaching its conclusion, with only works at Purfleet Primary, Tilbury Pioneer Academy, Arthur Bugler Primary and New Harris Primary Academy Mayflower in progress at the time of writing this report.
3.2 The 2014/15 school capital programme is progressing well and incorporated innovative partnership working to deliver the identified additional pupil places required.
Page 47 4. Update on Revisions to Schemes in the 2014/15 & 2015/16 School Capital Programme
4.1 Purfleet Expansion Scheme
4.1 .1 Following extensive pupil place planning work, Purfleet Primary Academy was highlighted as a school to be expanded from a 2FE to a 3FE, allowing for 630 pupils and staff.
4.1.2 At the request of Purfleet Primary Academy, it was agreed that REAch2 Academy Trust will project manage the expansion project in conjunction with the local authority.
4.1.3 The contractors, Ashe, commenced work onsite on 30 March 2015. The project is due to hand over to the academy on 8 February 2016 in line with the current construction programme. The approved budget is £3.5M. The project is currently on programme and within budget.
4.2 Tilbury Pioneer Academy
4.2.1 Successful negotiations have now completed and a legal contract drawn up and sealed, agreeing for The Gateway Learning Community to manage the overall building remodelling of the school.
4.2.2 Design works are currently taking place and a new planning application will be submitted in due course. The LA will make a contribution of £970k to the Gateway Learning Community to complete the scheme. The total cost of the project will remain with the allocated budget of £2.060M.
4.3 Arthur Bugler Primary School Amalgamation Works
4.3.1 The budget of £500K for the Arthur Bugler Amalgamation was approved at Cabinet. An additional council contribution of £150k funded from the schools capital allocations was given as well as a £100k contribution from the school, bringing the total budget for this project to £750k.
The Contract for the Design and Management of the amalgamation was awarded to Mace on 15th June 2014. A tender process was undertaken to source a principle contractor. The contract for the building work was awarded to Beardwell, who started on site on 16th February 2015 with an original handover date of 22nd June 2015. Following unforeseen ground works in relation to services, the programme is in delay and is scheduled to handover on 7th August 2015.
4.4 Mayflower Academy – Harris Federation
4.4.1 Planning consent has now been granted for this new 5 FE school to serve the children of Chafford Hundred and West Thurrock. Legal documents have been agreed and the contract sealed. Planning permission for the
Page 48 scheme has been granted and the contract for works awarded to Farrens, who were appointed by EFA using its free schools procurement framework.
4.4.2 The school opened in temporary accommodation admitting 90 reception pupils in September 2014 and another 90 this September. It is expected the school will be completed in September 2016 when it will increase reception intake to 150.
The construction of the new 5FE school is partially funded by EFA which is providing a capital sum of £16.5M. To complete the scheme the EFA will require a financial contribution from the local authority in the sum of £4.9M (plus £250k for nursery places) - total £5.15M. These amounts are within the agreed financial envelope and have been previously agreed by Cabinet.
4.4.3 2015/16 Woodside & Thameside Academies
The procurement of the Multi Discipline Design teams for both Woodside Academy & Thameside Primary has now been completed, with awards and appointments for each being made during the week commencing 18th May. Initial meetings and scoping exercises to include academy and governors input are to be held during the 1st two weeks of June. In terms of Thameside Primary, the programme is currently at RIBA stage 1 (inception). At Woodside the programme is at stage 2 (Detailed Design). The cost of the team will be charged to the Capital Scheme.
4.4.4 As requested by members at the council meeting on 24th June 2015, Cabinet Group Leaders will be required to authorise or approve the procurement of a Principal Contractor at the next milestone which will occur following agreement of the designs by all stakeholders and the implementation of the design freeze.
4.4.5 In addition to the above, additional temporary accommodation for September 2015 is in the process of being procured and will remain on site until completion of the new build expansion. (As listed under temporary accommodation)
5. Temporary Accommodation
5.1 In order to provide additional capacity from September 2015 to meet in year- demand for places, the following schools will have a single demountable placed on their site:
Thameside Somers Heath (see section 1.1, under recommendation for approval of re-commission of the Knightsmead site)
This is in addition to temporary accommodation already been placed at Woodside and Stifford Clays.
Page 49 5.2 Minor re-modelling works will be undertaken at the following schools to provide additional capacity in reception in the South Ockendon and Corringham/Stanford areas:
Kenningtons Primary Academy Giffards Primary
The above will be funded through the schools Basic Need funding.
6. Issues, Options and Analysis of Options
6.1 If the local authority does not undertake the school expansions and builds, the local authority will not be able to fulfil its statutory responsibility to ensure there are sufficient places available in Thurrock for every child of school age.
6.2 The contract, due to its potential value over the threshold, is subject to Thurrock Council & EU procurement legislation.
7. Reasons for Recommendations
7.1 To ensure the local authority discharges its statutory duty, under the Education Act 2006, to ensure that suitable and sufficient places are available in Thurrock for every child of school age whose parents wish them to have one.
7.2 To ensure that the agreed schemes within the 2014/15 and 2015/16 school capital programme are delivered to completion dates as outlined in this report.
7.3 Increasing the accommodation on certain sites can be very challenging to undertake due to the nature of the individual sites and various technical constraints. Amongst the constraints are general building challenges such as access arrangements, ground conditions and planning restrictions.
7.4 In addition careful consideration has needed to be given with educational concerns over making the school sites congested, resulting in a negative effect on pupil behaviour and subsequent pupil performance.
7.5 Any school accommodation increase particularly resulting from a form of entry increase has needed to consider teaching accommodation as well as ancillary spaces such as kitchen, staff room, assembly hall and administration spaces. Often these can be overlooked however they are an important part of ensuring a school continues to operate successfully.
8. Consultation (including Overview and Scrutiny, if applicable)
8.1 The school capital programmes and other identified works have been subject to extensive consultation with key stakeholders. The principle has been agreed with schools and the detailed build content is being agreed with the
Page 50 relevant schools. Consultation will continue with each school and key stakeholders, as each scheme and works develop within the programme.
8.2 This report has not been considered by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.
8.3 The principle has been agreed with schools and any detailed build content will be agreed with the relevant schools. Consultation will continue with each school and key stakeholder, as each scheme and schedule of works evolves within the programme.
9. Impact on corporate policies, priorities, performance and community impact
9.1 The improvement in the educational facilities in Thurrock schools is part of the council’s delivery of its Education Capital Strategy and supports the council’s prioritisation of educational standards and pupil progress by helping to create great places for learning in the borough.
10. Implications
10.1 Financial
Implications verified by: Kay Goodacre Interim Finance Manager
Additional accommodation required for increased pupil numbers will be funded from a combination of the future capital basic need budget, and underspends from the current capital programme. Once in-depth feasibility studies have been undertaken, funding requirements will be quantified and confirmed. This will include any funds applied for and successfully obtained from the Education Funding Agency, under the Targeted Basic Need Programme.
10.2 Legal
Implications verified by: Assaf Chaudry Contract and Procurement Lawyer
The Council has a duty under the Education Act 2006 to ensure the provision of “sufficient schools” for the provision of primary and secondary education in their area.
The report proposes to commence a procurement exercise for a Specialist Project Team for the schools capital improvement programme, and Building contractors to take forward the proposed schemes within the current affordability envelope of £2.5 million. Given its value it has to comply with the Public Contract Regulations 2015 the EU regulations and the Council’s
Page 51 constitution. Other than that there are no other legal implications arising from this report.
10.3 Diversity and Equality
Implications verified by: Rebecca Price Community Development Officer
The next Thurrock Schools’ Capital Programme will continue to commit to improving learning environments for young people, supporting improvements in standards and raising aspirations to give all children the best possible life chances. The provision of these projects will help to tackle inequality and social exclusion.
Equality legislation places a duty on public bodies to prevent discrimination in all aspects of service provision, including procurement. It provides a clear and positive legal duty to eliminate discrimination and ensure equality of opportunity.
The Council should note that where an external supplier carries out a function, the Council remains responsible for meeting the statutory duty set out in these Acts. The tender process will give true regard to the full range of equality considerations with a focus also on the wider community benefits that will be realised through the application of the council’s social value framework.
11. Background papers used in preparing the report (including their location on the Council’s website or identification whether any are exempt or protected by copyright):
Cabinet Report 17 December 2014 – Schools Capital Update Cabinet Report 25 March 2015 – Approval of the Schools Capital Budget
Report Author:
Janet Clark Strategic Lead, Educational Specialist and Libraries Unit Children’s Services
Page 52 Agenda Item 15
24 June 2015 ITEM: 15 Council Cabinet Member Report – Finance & Strategy
Report of: Councillor John Kent, Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance & Education
This report is public.
Introduction
Throughout 2014/15 Cabinet have received updates on the budget position and pressures, actions taken to mitigate those pressures and work being undertaken to shape the council in light of the continuing financial constraints.
The Council has set a balanced budget for 2015/16 having made some difficult decisions and service reductions. The cumulative impact of £83.2m savings over 6 years now visibly impacting on communities.
Looking forward, there are further financial challenges to meet estimated budget deficits of circa £10m per annum. In real terms, the figure is higher when considering service demand pressures within children and adults social care and housing, and legislative changes such as the Care Act.
The Autumn Statement and budget reinforced that there would be further cuts to local government spending and that this would actually be higher than the cuts to date. Our estimates have been reflected in the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) but I must warn members that this could get worse. Our first indications may well be in the Chancellor’s July budget in the coming weeks.
Work has already started on how we can improve the strategic approach to shaping the council in this financial context with leadership group workshops in Strategy Week earlier this month and cross-party consideration of the complexity and scale of the challenge that lies ahead.
This work will seek to develop sustainable and innovative models for our services and a council that is contemporary, digital, empowering and entrepreneurial for the benefit of all Thurrock’s residents.
Page 53 STRATEGY & COMMUNICATIONS
The community vision and priorities were originally agreed unanimously by this chamber in 2012. As Council will know, in February this year, the priorities and associated objectives were refreshed and again, unanimously agreed.
Whilst the priorities did not change a great deal, some of the objectives and approaches to delivering them were amended. This was to reflect the need to change the way communities are supported and services are delivered in light of the budget challenges we face.
To support the delivery of these refreshed priorities, Cabinet earlier this month agreed the Corporate Priority Activity Plan 2015/16. This sets out what the council is going to deliver during 2015/16 to work towards achieving the priorities and how it will monitor progress as part of the corporate strategic planning process.
Key strengths in the borough include the unique growth opportunities and ambitious regeneration projects creating additional employment and bringing communities together. We need to drive growth in our role as champions for Thurrock the place and as local leaders to maximise opportunities and attract inward investment. But there’s no doubt our relationship with partners and with the community as a whole is changing.
How we communicate with residents is especially critical at a time of change and service reductions. We must be open and honest, and improve engagement with residents to seek their views on the challenges and choices ahead. This is a priority for 2015/16.
A review of the communications function earlier this year led to a new strategic approach to communications activity. In order to strengthen the way the Council communicates, a number of new outcomes were identified including:
delivery of a high quality, proactive and responsive but core minimum service capacity focused on delivering strategic external communication campaigns supporting the vision and priorities ensuring digital channels of communication are embedded including use of social media
One particular challenge for the team was managing the national and local media attention at the count for the local and parliamentary elections in May. Not only did this show the council as professional and well organised, which was praised by the press, it showcased Thurrock as a centre for cultural and creative industries at High House Production Park.
Other large-scale campaigns that the communications team have supported over the last year include the Thames Crossing campaign, including two public meetings and presenting to the Parliamentary Committee.
Thurrock Council has been shortlisted as one of only five finalists in the MJ Awards
Page 54 2015 in the category of Best Achieving Council. This reflects our shared commitment to delivering the priorities and improvements in service delivery over recent years despite significant budget reductions and increased demand on services.
ASSET MANAGEMENT
The council continues to progress its intention to dispose of those properties is does not need to deliver services and to make better use of the properties it does keep for that purpose.
Under the principles of the disposals protocol agreed by Cabinet in 2014, while maximising capital income is clearly a significant priority, this is balanced by our need to dispose of property in ways that both supports future service delivery and adds to the well-being of the borough’s communities.
To date, £5.32m of property sales, recommended by a cross-party Member group and agreed by Cabinet, have now been completed with a further £5m+ in the pipeline for 2015/16.
Disposals in 2014/15, amounting to £2.6m, included transactions to enable the expansion of local business, the development of a brand new nursery in Grays, new GP and community health facilities in Corringham, enabling a local charity to own their offices instead of renting from the Council, and even the transfer of a former school caretaker’s house to the housing department for use as affordable housing.
Forthcoming disposals will enable new housing to meet the borough’s growth agenda and following Cabinet’s agreement to the principle earlier this year, officers are presently working with Impulse Leisure on plans to transfer to them long term stewardship of Thurrock’s leisure facilities, together with the responsibility for maintaining these resources.
CORPORATE FINANCE
General Fund
Despite all of the financial pressures set out above, I am pleased to confirm that the council has:
For the fifth year running, come in on budget, despite significant in-year pressures. In total, the council has achieved an operational budget surplus, before exceptional items, of £0.028m; Maintained general fund balance at £8m; Set aside a further £6.739m to help the council meet its Shaping the Council objectives; and Use this fund to provide some transitional funding to those services where cuts may have been too hard too fast.
Page 55 In July 2014, officers reported that there were additional budget pressures of £2.300m arising from centralised savings targets and an increase in the legal costs of looked after children. That same report launched a number of savings under the Shaping the Council programme that successfully identified proposals to meet those pressures and ultimately helped to deliver a balanced budget for 2015/16.
Housing Revenue Account (HRA)
There was an operating surplus of £2.485m in 2014/15 that has been transferred into the Development Reserve to support new build and estate regeneration.
Final Accounts
I can report that Ernst and Young, our external auditors signed off the Council’s accounts in October 2014 with no material issues. Following past problems encountered in 2010/11, I am pleased to report that the auditors specifically stated that “there has been a real improvement on previous years on financial statement closedown procedures”.
The auditors noted that “along with many other local authorities, Thurrock is facing significant financial challenges over the next three to four years. The Authority’s external funding sources are reducing and are subject to change and uncertainty in future years”.
I am further pleased to report that the auditors also showed confidence in our ability to meet this challenge, stating: “The Authority is clearly aware of the challenges it faces and has continued to develop and refine its Medium Term Financial Strategy over the last year”.
Finally on this point, I would like to highlight and stress the importance of the following warning from the auditors: “Members need to be aware of the future financial pressures the Authority is facing and consider carefully the impact of any decisions they make on the ongoing sustainability of the Authority’s financial position and its ability to maintain service levels in future years”.
Capital Expenditure
The total capital expenditure for 2014/15 amounted to £54.436m. Council may like to note that there have been several notable successes during 2014/15 and these are set out in the supporting financial information.
Page 56 KEY CHALLENGES 2015/16 AND BEYOND
Ongoing budget pressure and need to find additional savings; Risks and opportunities from business rate retention; Business Rates appeals; Cumulative and ongoing impacts of welfare reform & Care Act; Demographic pressures; Delivering asset disposal programme in challenging market conditions; and Finding a sustainable approach to delivering services in the long term.
Supporting Financial Information:
1. Government grant reductions and cost pressures over the period 2010/11 – 2017/18 2. General Fund 2014/15 Outturn 3. Housing Revenue Account (HRA) 2014/15 Outturn 4. Capital 2014/15 Outturn and examples of key capital projects 5. Material Items of Asset Related Income and Expenditure 6. Service Financial Information
Page 57 1. Government grant reductions and cost pressures over the period 2010/11 – 2017/18
2010/11 – 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2014/15 £m £m £m £m Reduced Grant 25.0 9.9 9.1 8.7 Inflation / Service Pressures 36.4 11.9 2.0 2.7 / Other Savings Requirements 61.4 21.8 11.1 11.4
Cumulative Savings 61.4 83.2 94.3 105.7
Notes:
Inflation – this has largely been limited to contractual annual increased and utilities Demographic pressures are largely to support the growing numbers accessing both children’s and adult social care Other issues include collection fund adjustments, including changes to business rate income Up to the current financial year, the table shows that the Council has had to identify £83.2m in savings to meet the pressures set out above; and The table shows that a further £44.3m is required totalling £105.7m over the 8 year period
Page 58 2. General Fund 2014/15 Outturn
The financial outturn was reported to Cabinet on 10 June 2015.
Pre - Severance Post - Severance Provision Adjustment Adjustment Revised for Directorate Revised Budget Budget Committed Revised Outturn Budget Variance Severance Outturn Variance Service: Adults. Health & 36.238 36.191 (0.047) - 36.191 (0.047) Commissioning Children's Services 35.506 35.286 (0.220) 0.030 35.316 (0.190) Environment 22.264 22.379 0.115 0.150 22.529 0.265 SERCO 16.808 16.834 0.026 - 16.834 0.026 Planning & 8.081 8.032 (0.049) 0.179 8.211 0.130 Transportation Chief Executive's 6.316 5.641 (0.675) 0.239 5.880 (0.436) Office Chief Executive's 2.868 2.812 (0.056) 0.032 2.844 (0.024) Delivery Unit Commercial Services 2.506 2.447 (0.059) 0.016 2.463 (0.043) Public Protection 2.098 2.028 (0.070) 0.060 2.088 (0.010) Treasury 1.645 1.596 (0.049) - 1.596 (0.049) Management Housing Services 0.687 0.673 (0.014) 0.018 0.691 0.004
Financed by: Budgeted Use of (2.468) (2.468) - - (2.468) - Reserves Other Non-specific (3.702) (3.442) 0.260 - (3.442) 0.260 Grants NNDR (31.484) (31.316) 0.168 - (31.316) 0.168 RSG (35.855) (35.937) (0.082) - (35.937) (0.082) Council Tax (53.365) (53.365) - - (53.365) - Grand Total 8.143 7.391 (0.752) 0.724 8.115 (0.028)
This table above confirms that the Council underspent against the agreed budget envelope by £0.028m.
Page 59 3. Housing Revenue Account (HRA) 2014/15 Outturn
The variances and impact on Reserves are set out in the tables below:
Revised Revised Revised Service Budget Outturn Variance
Rent and income (48.181) (47.986) 0.195
Repairs and maintenance 11.348 11.497 0.149
Supervision and management 10.348 10.020 (0.328)
Financing and overheads 24.655 24.176 (0.479)
Service improvement 0.105 0.133 0.028
New build and regeneration 1.738 (0.312) (2.050)
Operating Surplus 0.013 2.472 (2.485)
Reserve Opening Movement Closing In Out
Unallocated HRA Balance (2.654) - - (2.654)
Development Reserve - (2.485) - (2.485)
Transforming Homes (2.293) (14.157) 16.450 -
One for One Receipts (3.505) (2.726) 1.828 (4.403)
Non Ring-fenced capital receipt (0.753) (1.324) 1.684 (0.393)
Page 60 4. Capital 2014/15 Outturn and examples of key capital projects
Table 1 - Capital Expenditure and Sources of Finance 2014/15
Approved Total Service Budget Spend Variance £000's £000's £000's
Learning & Universal Outcomes 16,208 10,324 5,884 Adult Social Care 168 72 96 Housing General Fund 1,880 1,653 227 Environment 1,025 643 382 Planning and Transportation 5,269 3,328 1,941 Commercial Services 251 176 75 Transformation 6,261 4,000 2,261 Chief Executives Delivery Unit 5,254 3,754 1,500 Housing Revenue Account 29,634 30,486 - 852
Total 65,950 54,436 11,514
Source of Finance
Prudential Borrowing 21,772 15,190 6,582 Supported Borrowing 43 12 31 Usable Capital Receipts 378 345 33 Earmarked Usable Capital Receipts 5,536 4,836 700 Major Repairs Reserve 16,450 16,450 - Grants 19,236 15,871 3,365 Developers Contributions 1,194 589 605 Trusts 152 160 - 8 Reserves 1,189 983 206
Total 65,950 54,436 11,514
Examples of key capital projects:
The completion of new classrooms and facilities at Graham James Primary School, Little Thurrock Primary School, Bonnygate Primary School and Quarry Hill Academy, totalling a gross spend of £8.695m over the period 2013/14 to 2014/15 £20.267m spent on transforming Council homes, aimed at refurbishing every Council home in Thurrock, maximising energy efficiency and ridding properties of damp and mould £3.294m spent on improvements to the highways infrastructure, including improvements to footpaths and cycling facilities £0.182 spent on improving children’s play areas throughout the borough £0.963m spent on improvements to Pilgrims Lane including construction of day rooms and upgrades to the electrical infrastructure
Page 61 Works in progress - During the year a number of projects commenced which are expected to be completed during the current or next financial year. These projects include:
Amalgamation works to Tilbury Manor Infants and Junior Schools Amalgamation works to Arthur Bugler Infants and Junior Schools Expansion works at Purfleet Academy The building of a new primary school (by Harris Foundation) in South Stifford The building of new Council dwellings at Seabrooke Rise (Grays) and Derry Avenue (South Ockendon) Improvement of bus links at Lakeside between Tesco’s and Intu Transformation works to the Civic Offices to create a connected workplace with the offices being an attractive shared space for services and staff to use as a base, enabling complete flexibility and subsequent increased productivity and also to maximise space
Any unused resources will be carried forward to meet ongoing obligations and new projects.
Page 62 5. Material Items of Asset Related Income and Expenditure
Expenditure 2013/14 Outturn 2014/15 Outturn
Building Maintenance / Health & 864,685 947,864 Safety Works
Rent & Premises Charges 464,921 564,724
Business Rates / Council Tax 1,221,570 877,367
Cleaning / Rubbish Removal 1,016,661 947,366
Grounds Maintenance 1,012,874 1,007,657
Insurance 447,233 305,812
Utilities 1,860,868 1,746,717
Grand Total 6,888,812 6,397,507
Income 2013/14 Outturn 2014/15 Outturn
HRA Rent and charges (54,150,999) (54,780,284)
Theatre / Museums / Libraries (239,072) (574,896)
Service / Hire Charges /Commercial (1,601,376) (1,928,274) Rents
Grand Total (55,991,448) (57,283,454)
Page 63 6. Service Financial Information Outturn 2014/15
Revised Revised Revised Portfolio Cost Centre Budget Outturn Variance
DA034 - Corporate Finance (111) (130) (19) Finance (incl. Strategy & DA160 - Corporate Asset Communications) Manager (63) (63) 0
DA500 - Strategy Team (81) (70) 11
PR001 - Communications (63) (59) 4
PR080 - Non Operational Land & Buildings 47 151 104
PR081 - Commercial Estates & Properties (265) (342) (77)
PR082 - Former DC Assets (750) (996) (246)
Total (1,286) (1,509) (223)
The table above details the Outturn position in relation to the budgets held within the portfolio. These cover a number of different directorates, and overall there was a budget underspend of £0.223m, which was part of the Council’s overall balanced budget position.
Page 64 7. MTFS UPDATE
2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20
£000 £000 £000 £000 Local Funding Council Tax / Council Tax Grant (2,117) (1,335) (1,362) (1,368) Council Tax Collection Fund Surplus 980 0 0 0 Business Rate Growth (651) (475) (1,500) 0 Business Rate - Collection Fund Deficit (1,000) (1,000) 0 0 (2,787) (2,810) (2,862) (1,368) Total Government Resources Revenue Support Grant 9,500 9,000 6,500 1,665 New Homes Bonus (665) (529) (253) (253) Other Central Grants 265 228 196 398 9,100 8,698 6,443 1,810 Net Additional (Reduction) in 6,313 5,889 3,581 442 resources Inflation and other increases Pay 1,549 65 831 848 Contract Inflation 829 857 874 892 Non Contract Inflation 496 563 619 681 Fees and Charges (100) (100) (100) (100) 2,774 1,385 2,225 2,321 Capital Financing Prudential Borrowing & Treasury Management (971) 1,151 1,011 0 (971) 1,151 1,011 0
Finance & Education (480) (232) 0 0 Housing 0 0 0 0 Adult Social Care & Health (750) (750) 0 0 Children’s Social Care (516) 0 0 0 Regeneration (329) (35) 0 0 Highways & Transportation (240) (510) 0 0 Central Services (600) (632) 0 0 Communities & Public Protection (75) (75) 0 0 Environment (1,111) 0 0 0
Total Net Service Reduction (4,101) (2,234) 0 0
Demographics 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000
Total Savings to Identify 7,015 9,191 9,817 5,763
Page 65 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 16
ITEM 12
QUESTION TIME
Questions from Members to the Leader, Cabinet Members, Chairs of Committees or Members appointed to represent the Council on a Joint Committee in accordance with Chapter 2, Part 2 (Rule 14) of the Council’s Constitution.
There are two questions to the Leader and a further three questions to Cabinet Members, Committee Chairs and Member appointed to represent the Council on a Joint Committee.
QUESTIONS FROM MEMBERS TO THE LEADER
1. From Councillor Ojetola
“The menace of cruisers in the Lakeside area has been a nightmare to Chafford Hundred residents and indeed to everyone living in the vicinity and the police need every tool possible to tackle it. Why has the council not renewed the Public Spaces Protection Order which the police require to deal with the racers?”
2. From Councillor Ray
“The Leader has in regards to item 10 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 of the agenda to the annual council in May of this year said, ‘The continued success of the shared legal service i.e. with the London borough of Barking and Dagenham has created a significant traded income’. Can the Leader give me and fellow members an actual figure of the traded income?”
QUESTIONS FROM MEMBERS TO CABINET MEMBERS, COMMITTEE CHAIRS AND MEMBERS APPOINTED TO REPRESENT THE COUNCIL ON A JOINT COMMITTEE
1. From Councillor Ojetola to Councillor Holloway
“There are many working groups currently in operation within the Council which deliver important strategic research work on behalf of Thurrock residents. In the interest of transparency and openness please publish a list of all such working groups, their membership, their terms of reference and lifespan”.
2. From Councillor Redsell to Councillor Brookes
“The majority of parking outside schools is done responsibly. Having had many yellow lines placed outside of schools, and parents still park(ing) illegally or irresponsibly inside roads and around the school. How do you envisage the pilot scheme allowing teachers to take on parking enforcement will tackle and solve the problem?”
Page 67 3. From Councillor Redsell to Councillor Brookes
“The unlawful grazing of horses on council land including some children’s play areas and also in many other parts of Thurrock. Can you inform the chamber what if any revenue this brings to Thurrock Council or if not, what action is taken to stop this?”
Page 68 Item 19 - Update on Motions agreed by the Council – 24 June 2015
Date From Motion Status Accountable Director 23/07/14 Cllr J Kent This council believes that work should pay and In accordance with the pledge the council is not using Graham therefore opposes the introduction of schemes workfare placements. Farrant / Jackie which force job seekers into unpaid work or face Hinchliffe losing their benefits – schemes known popularly as A letter is being sent to partners and contractors to workfare. highlight the pledge and seek their co-operation.
This council is concerned that there is no evidence The Council has given information via the procurement workfare assists job seekers in finding work and in process for all contractors (existing and potential) on the fact working a 30-hour week makes that more council’s position re fair pay. We are committed to difficult; that workfare is replacing paid work; and ensuring this is done on an ongoing basis that that workfare stigmatises benefits claimants and respective contractors will be aware of. locks them further into poverty.
This council therefore pledges not to use any Page 69 Page workfare placements and also calls for our partners and contractors not to use the schemes.
23/07/14 Cllr C Kent This council believes that the changes proposed to A letter was sent to the Chief Fire Officer and Deputy Graham Grays Fire Station are detrimental to the safety of Chief Fire Officer on 8 July 2014 and a response was Farrant / Lucy the public and firefighters and we call on the Chief received on 22 August 2014. Magill Fire Officer to reconsider them in light of new information bought to our attention by the Fire In the absence of the Chief Fire Officer, the Deputy Brigades Union highlighting Thurrock as an area of Chief Fire Officer acknowledged that the motion had extremely high risk. been considered by Members of the Fire Authority. Agenda Item 19 Furthermore the Deputy Chief Fire Officer recognised the invitation to attend a meeting of Council and confirmed that he was happy to meet with Thurrock Councillors to explore the rationale for the recent decision of Essex Fire Authority and the impact of the Fire and Rescue Service on Thurrock. He invited a group of Councillors that included both Councillors nominated to Essex Fire Authority, the Leaders of each Political Group, the Leader of the Council and the Mayor Item 19 - Update on Motions agreed by the Council – 24 June 2015
of Thurrock to a briefing at Service Headquarters at Kelvedon Park, Witham, in order to discuss this matter further.
A copy of the letter from the Deputy Chief Fire Officer that was sent to the Mayor of Thurrock was copied to Councillors Cathy Kent and Tom Kelly in their position of nominated Councillors to the Essex Fire Authority.
23/07/14 Cllr Hebb On Thursday 10th July 2014, employees in the The Chief Executive has written to all Members Graham public sector took strike action in respect of pay, following consultation with the Leadership Group. Farrant which caused disruption to the tax-paying public.
With a number of local authorities being hit with strike action, and to free up funds to allow Thurrock to negotiate and determine salary increases locally, Page 70 Page we call on the Chief Executive, as part of the current budget process, to:
1. Ask Senior Officers to volunteer a salary reduction of 5% in annual salaries, which had approval by members back in 2010. 2. Undertake a review of all indirect or direct funding to trade-union representatives in the council – moving to a volunteer-based representative-model (like the private sector).
23/07/14 Cllr Halden While acknowledging the justifiably protected nature The contents of the information provided to the Carmel Littleton of information in child social care, Council Corporate Parenting Committee have been reviewed by expresses concern in regards to comments made at the Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, the Shadow the last meeting of the corporate parenting Portfolio Holder, the Director of Children’s Services and committee, in regards to removing financial Senior Officers in Democratic services. All agree that information and reports from members for their there is a need and desire for transparency around scrutiny. Council reaffirms its commitment to the financial matters whilst protecting the individual details principles of corporate parenting in terms of making of children and young people. Reports have been the service budget as transparent and accountable prepared with this fine balance in mind. Members will to members as possible via appropriate reports. have the opportunity for further discussion in a pre- Item 19 - Update on Motions agreed by the Council – 24 June 2015
meeting of the committee.
10/09/14 Cllr Tolson Thurrock Council calls upon government to make Letter drafted and sent by Cllr Tolson to Jackie Doyle- Graham the display of Food Hygiene Rating Scheme Price MP and Stephen Metcalfe MP Farrant / Lucy Certificates compulsory in England as it currently is Magill in Wales.
10/09/14 Cllr Gerrish That Thurrock Council pays tribute to Andy Smith Officers are currently exploring options for a memorial Graham and mourns his sad passing. We recognise and give service to be held in memory of Councillor Smith. Farrant / Linda thanks for the many years of hard work and Foster commitment that he gave to the people of Thurrock.
The Council asks that the Mayor holds a memorial service in Andy’s memory.
10/09/14 Cllr Kelly We call on Thurrock Council to complete the verge Works within the scope of the current pilot have been David Bull hardening projects started in Little Thurrock completed. The pilot is ongoing and the performance of Page 71 Page Rectory, Stifford Clays and Aveley. the materials used will be monitored throughout the winter months. The geo-grid material used for the pilot costs £100 per square metre and the Council does not have money within the current year capital programme to extend the pilot.
The Council is currently pursuing competitive grant funding for highways maintenance. The potential to finance a verge hardening programme will be reviewed once the outcome of Thurrock’s funding bid is known. The bid for highway maintenance improvements was submitted before the DfT deadline of 9 February 2015. We are currently awaiting a response.
10/09/14 Cllr Gledhill We call on government to make Councils, who are A letter has been sent to the Prime Minister to advise of Barbara housing authorities, subject to the same sanctions the request made in the Motion and to seek a response Brownlee as private landlord. This would require changing the to the issue raised. Any response received will be law to allow Councils to be prosecuted easier where reported to a future meeting of the Council by way of they fail to bring tenants homes up to an acceptable this update report. standard. Item 19 - Update on Motions agreed by the Council – 24 June 2015
22/10/14 Cllr Halden The Chamber instructs the constitution working It was agreed at the meeting of Council on 22 October Graham group to carry out a governance review, in order 2014 that an item on the Constitution Working Group be Farrant / Fiona judge the need for the committee, cabinet, mayoral, brought back to the next meeting of Council (28 January Taylor or hybrid forms of governance from May 2015 2015) and a small budget be allocated to the group to onwards. investigate thoroughly the benefits and disadvantages of different forms of governance within similar size authorities, such as Brighton and Hove and East Cheshire.
The CWG was constituted at Council on 28/01/15 and a budget allocated to the group.
The first meeting of the CWG took place on 2 March 2015 and work is currently underway on the Governance Review. Page 72 Page 28/01/15 Cllr Pearce Along with the residents of Aveley and Uplands this No update required. David Bull council welcomes the decision by the Secretary of State to reject plans for 500 houses on the former fireman’s club site in Aveley on greenbelt land.
28/01/15 Cllr Aker Thurrock Council calls on the Cabinet to reject At its meeting on 11 February 2015 Cabinet considered Mike Heath fortnightly bin collections. the comments of the Cleaner, Greener, Safer Overview and Scrutiny Committee in respect of the proposal to move to alternate weekly collections for the residual and recycling waste streams. Following receipt of the committees comments Cabinet agreed to withdraw the proposal for alternate week collections of these two waste streams within the current year’s budget proposals and instructed officers to seek alternative savings from within the waste collection budget. 25/03/15 Cllr Gledhill We call on Thurrock Council to investigate taking The granting of an interim injunction in Harlow against Gavin Dennett similar action to Essex and Harlow Councils and unauthorised encampments and the future court hearing apply for an injunction to help stop unauthorised to establish whether a full injunction will eventually be traveller encampments in Thurrock. granted is being closely followed to see if a similar measure would be an appropriate measure in Thurrock. This is being done both locally and through the Essex Item 19 - Update on Motions agreed by the Council – 24 June 2015
Countywide Traveller Unit, of which Thurrock is a member council. A further response will be submitted when the outcome of these court proceedings is known. 25/03/15 Cllr Gledhill This Council thanks all retiring elected members for No action required. David Bull their service to Thurrock. Page 73 Page This page is intentionally left blank