Town Hall, St. Helens, Merseyside, WA10 1HP
Telephone: 01744 67(6109) (Mr A Roscoe)
Agenda PLACE SERVICES SCRUTINY COMMITTEE
Date: Monday 23 November 2020 Time: 5.00 pm Venue: To be held Virtually via Microsoft Teams
Membership
Lab 8 Councillors Gill, Hattersley (Chairman), J Jackson, P Jackson, McQuade, L Preston and Uddin and Vacancy
LD 1 Councillor Smith
Con 1 Councillor Mussell
Co-opted (Non -Voting) Superintendent S Brizell - Merseyside Police Mr I Mullen - Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service
Item Title Page
1. Appointment of Chair
2. Apologies for Absence
3. Minutes of the meeting of the Safer Communities Overview and Scrutiny 3 Panel held on 20 January 2020
4. Minutes of the meeting of the Environment, Regeneration, Housing, Culture 13 and Leisure Overview and Scrutiny Panel held on 22 January 2020
5. Declarations of Interests from Members
6. Declarations of Party Whip
7. Anti Social Behaviour Relating to Halloween and Bonfire Night To Follow
Samantha Murray, Assistant Director - Community Safety has been invited to attend the Meeting Item Title Page
8. Quarter 2 Performance Report 2020-2021 To Follow
Lisa Harris, Executive Director Place Services has been invited to attend the Meeting
9. Cabinet Response to Scrutiny Review of the Council's Use of Paper and 21 Plastics
Lisa Harris, Executive Director Place Services has been invited to attend the Meeting.
10. Town Centre Regeneration Presentation
Lisa Harris, Executive Director Place Services has been invited to attend the Meeting.
11. Place Services Scrutiny Committee Work Programme 35 3 SAFER COMMUNITIES OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY PANEL
At a meeting of the Safer Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel held on Monday, 20 January 2020
(Present) Councillor Sweeney (Chairman) Councillors Banks, Gill, Gomez-Aspron and Pearl
(Not Present) Councillors P Jackson, Lynch and Neal
(Also Present) Councillor Bell - Cabinet Member, Community Safety
------
16 APOLOGY FOR ABSENCE
An Apology for absence was received from Councillor P Jackson.
17 MINUTES
* The minutes of the meeting held on 24 September 2019, were approved and signed.
18 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
No Declarations of Interest from Members were made.
19 DOMESTIC ABUSE STRATEGY - UPDATE REPORT
At the previous meeting of the Panel held on 24 September 2019, the Panel requested a further update on the development of the new Domestic Abuse Strategy for the borough.
The Cabinet Member, Community Safety and the Assistant Director, Community Safety were present at the meeting to present an update on development of the Strategy and to advise on activities undertaken since October 2019.
The report advised that a Domestic Abuse Summit had been held on 1 October 2019 which had brought together organisations from across all sectors in the borough to discuss the issue of domestic abuse, the impact on families and the local community and identify future priorities for tackling the issue.
The Panel was advised that the workshop had generated a significant amount of feedback that had been used as the foundation in the development of the new Strategy and had enabled a Working Group led by the Director of Public Health, to build upon this and to expand these issues into wider priorities within the Strategy.
Member were advised that these emerging priorities had formed the basis of consultation with relevant agencies which had been undertaken during the period of October to December 2019; alongside sessions with Third Sector Partner Agencies, people with lived experience of domestic abuse via a Support Group delivered by Change, Grow, Live (CGL) and the Youth Justice Forum for young people. SafeLives had also offered to act as a ‘critical friend’ to provide feedback on the new Strategy.
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As a result of the process, the following priorities had emerged and informed the new Strategy, these were detailed in the report as follows:-
Awareness Raising and Culture; Coercive Control; Support; Perpetrators; and Older People.
The Panel was advised that final amendments were currently being made to the Strategy with the aim for a final cycle of consultation with Summit attendees, the People’s Board and this Panel. The intention was then for the final strategy to be presented to Cabinet for consideration at its meeting scheduled for 25 March 2020.
It was reported that consultation with agencies had acted as a catalyst for early activity and developments. This included; all Children’s and Adult Social Care Social Workers attendance at the Domestic Abuse / Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) training to be mandatory, updates to the Youth Justice Service recording processes, commissioning of Merseyside Community Rehabilitation Company to deliver the HELP programme for perpetrators from February 2020, the strengthening of MARAC processes, the launch of the ‘16 Days of Action’ campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse and coercive control during December 2019 and development and appointment of a number of posts to support the priority.
Members asked if the 10-week HELP programme for perpetrators had been piloted elsewhere and if so, what was its success rate. The Panel was advised that the programme currently runs in other areas of Merseyside and assurance was given, once the 10-week programme was complete, there would be an evaluation before further ongoing commissioning commitments to the programme would be made.
The Panel expressed their interest in receiving feedback from the outcomes of the 10- week HELP programme for perpetrators.
The Panel noted the difficulty of sentencing when the victim was unwilling to prosecute for a variety of reasons and in weak sentencing not being a deterrent. The Merseyside Police Representative commented on the steps that could be taken by the Police where the complainant declines or the victim won’t support prosecution and the work being done with the Criminal Prosecution Service (CPS) to ensure evidence gathering was robust enough to support a Police lead prosecution.
It was acknowledged that the scheduled meeting of this Panel was the day before the Cabinet meeting where this Strategy would be considered, and it was proposed in order to undertake consultation on this document ahead of the meeting that the scheduled meeting of this Panel be held earlier.
* Resolved that:
(1) the update report on the development of the new Domestic Abuse Strategy be noted;
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(2) the Cabinet Member for Community Safety and the Assistant Director Community Safety be thanked for their attendance;
(3) the draft Domestic Abuse Strategy be received at the next meeting of this Panel for consultation;
(4) feedback on the outcomes from the 10-week HELP Programme for perpetrators be brought to a future meeting of the Panel; and
(5) the Scrutiny Manger, in consultation with the Chair of the Panel look to amend the date of the next meeting of this Panel in order to accommodate review of the Strategy ahead of its submission to Cabinet on 25 March 2020.
20 ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR INITIATIVES BY SAFER ST HELENS PARTNERSHIP DURING HALLOWEEN AND BONFIRE NIGHT 2019
The Senior Assistant Director, Housing, Leisure and Libraries presented the report on Anti-Social Behaviour Initiatives with verbal inputs from both Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue (MFRS) Representatives.
The report updated the Panel on the activities and outcomes of the Safer St Helens Community Safety Partnership to address anti-social behaviour during the Halloween and Bonfire Night period between 30 October and 5 November 2019.
Safer St Helens was a partnership of key agencies who had responsibility for community safety within St Helens. This partnership included; St Helens Council, Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service (MFRS), the Probation Services and Health partners who work together to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.
The Halloween and Bonfire Period is a key time of year when the Safer St Helens partners work particularly closely together to prevent anti-social behaviour and partner agencies, through experience of previous years, concentrate their resources and tailor their approaches in a joined up and coordinated way to in order to achieve this.
Prevention, early intervention and diversionary activities are key tools in tackling anti- social behaviour (ASB), violent crime and disorder. Partner activity during this period concentrated on both early intervention and targeted activities.
The report detailed the activity and interventions that had taken place during this period to tackle anti-social behaviour and serious violence. These activities included Operation Banger; targeting hot spots and micro beat locations and undertaking reassurance visits, Operation Good Guy diversionary work, deployment of a Trojan Fire Appliance, waste removal to remove combustible waste, Safe Space activities and ASB Outreach Team Late Night sessions.
The Panel was advised on joint activity between Merseyside Police and MFRS where two warrants were executed following community intelligence around the storage of a large number of fireworks, both of which lead to seizures and on the incident at ‘Spark at the Park’ held in Sherdley Park where a young person had been stabbed. It was noted that
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the police had subsequently arrested and secured convictions and custodial sentences for those involved in this incident.
A summary of performance by Merseyside Police during Operation Banger, MFRS performance in relation to secondary fires, firework related incidents and violence against MFRS staff were detailed in the report.
The Panel acknowledged the work that had been undertaking during this period and requested that the figures provided on deliberate secondary fires, which reported a 20.69% increase in incidents from 2018/19, and firework incidents, which saw an increase by one incident, be expanded to report on a longer period of 5/10 years and also detail incidents by per head population in order to capture a fairer assessment of any reportable incidents.
The Panel also requested for more information on the outcomes following the 44 test purchase visits or retailers visited with prevention letters that had been undertaken.
* Resolved that:
(1) the report be noted; and
(2) the requested further data information on deliberate secondary fires and firework incidents and outcomes from the 44 test purchase visits or retailers visited with prevention letters be provided to the Panel.
21 IMPACT OF THE DE-REGULATION ACT IN ST HELENS AND THE STEPS TAKEN BY THE LICENSING AUTHORITY TO ADDRESS THIS
The Licensing Manager presented the report on Impact of the Deregulation Act in St Helens and the steps taken by the Licensing Authority to manage this.
The Deregulation Act 2015 was introduced in October 2015 and initially the amendment to the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1974 was not considered to carry any significant risk. Paragraph 3.2 of the report contained an excerpt of Section 55a of the Act highlighting the changes to the Act.
These changes were intended to allow a Private Hire Operator the flexibility to ‘pass over’ a booking to an Operator in another district if they could not fulfil the booking, which prior to this amendment could not be undertaken legally. However, it had created a situation where by Private Hire Operators had taken out Operating Licences in other borough in order to become ‘another person’ and pass the job over.
This practice had been deemed to be perfectly legal however, it had inadvertently created potential safeguarding and safety issues for Licensing Authorities to manage. As although Licensing remains a ‘local’ responsibility, the authority which the driver is working in but not licensed to, has no power to take enforcement action or bring a prosecution against a driver, vehicle or operator as they have been licensed by a different authority.
The Panel was informed by the Licensing Manager this had led to some Private Hire Operators encouraging their drivers to ‘shop around’ different Licensing Authorities for the lowest priced licences or those with fewer / weaker check systems. These changes
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together with outdated taxi licensing law, had created a difficult situation for Taxi Licensing Authorities.
To offer assurance to the Panel, the report detailed the St Helens Standard this was a process undertaken by St Helens Licensing Unit for any applicant for a Hackney Carriage/ Private Hire Drivers Licence; regional work being undertaken thorough the Regional Licensing Managers network to consider how authorities could work more closely together and align their policies alongside the adoption of an information sharing agreement with the aim of preventing instances of drivers licensing being revoked in one authority then becoming licensed in another.
The Licensing Manager also advised on the impact the Deregulation Act had had on Local Businesses, particularly where a driver sought to be licensed with another authority and not the one they elect to work in.
It was noted although not a significant issue in St Helens, as the majority of the local driving community had remained licensed by St Helens rather than seeking to be licensed with another authority, some small towns who have actively sought to licence drivers from outside their borough now have more licensed drivers subscribed to them than large city centres.
It was reported that the largest contingent of other licensed vehicles working in St Helens were from Knowsley, Sefton and Wolverhampton and it was noted that as Licensing was a local statutory responsibility this caused issues as the Council had no legal power to check or enforce standards on any of the drivers or vehicles from other authorities who worked regularly in this borough.
The Panel was advised that Central Government would be introducing new Statutory Guidance for Taxi Licensing, which would assist with the reported issues and will hopefully offer better protection to the public. There was also the intention to legislate for some of the more complex areas.
However, until this guidance was introduced the Council continued to commit to improve it’s services to protect the public and the Panel was advised of the ‘know your ride’ campaign which had run from November 2019 to early January 2020 in order to ensure high standards for the licensed community, raise awareness of these standards with the public and help them to recognise a St Helens Licensed Driver and assist them in understanding why this is important.
The Licensing Manager also circulated the Safeguarding Awareness Licensed Drivers Handbook for the Panels information when advising the Panel on the Safeguarding training given to Taxi Drivers licensed with St Helens.
Members noted the issues that the Deregulation Act 2015 was causing and that this had been taken as a Motion to Council on 15 January 2019. The Panel asked questions in relation to when the Needs Assessment and Rank Assessments would next be undertaken and if Licensing Unit had looked to work with geographical neighbours alongside the Liverpool City Region.
The Licensing Manager reported that following a consultation to remove the limit on Hackney Carriage Plate Numbers; the Licensing and Environmental Protection Committee
7 3 SAFER COMMUNITIES OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY PANEL
had resolved to remove the limits and defer decision on the Needs Assessment until 2019/20 when it was anticipated that the planned development of the Town Centre would be at an advanced stage. The Panel was advised that a report was now due to be considered by the Committee in February / March 2020.
With regards to the Ranks Assessment, this study was currently being undertaken to look at areas where additional ranks were required and suitable and that a report detailing these finding and recommendations would be considered by the Licensing Environmental Protection Committee at their scheduled meeting in April 2020.
The Panel was informed that the Licensing Unit worked closely with the geographic neighbours of Wigan and Warrington, however it was noted that the reported issues were not due to licensed drivers from these particular boroughs. It was suggested that this was due to having found that these boroughs have similar charges and expectations and driver standards as St Helens.
* Resolved that:
(1) the report be noted; and
(2) the Licensing Manager be thanked for attending the meeting and thanks be passed on behalf of the Panel to the Licensing Unit for the work undertaken.
22 MERSEYSIDE FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE UPDATE
A verbal report was given by Station Manager Ian Mullen from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, which updated Members on the current work and performance of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.
The Panel was advised on the joint activity between Merseyside Police and MFRS that had taken place on 1 November 2019; following community intelligence around the storage of a large number of fireworks in the Parr Area. This has subsequently led to the seizure of four large boxes of fireworks with a value of approximately £2,000 at the first address alongside the recovery of 125 Rockets and a box containing a 55 Piece firework pack and £1,000 cash being seized from the second address.
The Station Manager advised on the firework related incident the St Helens MFRS had dealt with which had been due to a 31-year-old male who burnt his hand whilst trying to set off a firework in a pub car park.
The Panel was advised on a recent restructure which had seen the areas of Protection and Prevention, which had previously been the responsibility of the Area Manager, Guy Keen, being split into two separate strands. This had been due to increasing demand on the Protection aspect of the service following the Grenfell incident. These would now be managed by James Berry and Gary Oakford respectively.
Ian Mullen also advised the Panel on the outcomes of the inspection carried out by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS). The inspection had considered how effective MFRS were, how efficient they are in keeping people safe from fires and other risks and how well they look after their people. It was
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reported that the service had been assessed as ‘Good’ across all three themes with an ‘outstanding’ judgment in the sub themes for work to prevent fire and other risks and its ability to respond to national incidents.
The Panel was also advised that the development of the new community fire station at Watson Street off Milverny Way was progressing well and was on target to open October 2020.
At a previous meeting, the Panel had been advised that the new site would house the two Fire Appliances currently stationed at Parr Stocks Road and Eccleston Fire stations with a view to applying to house a third Appliance to be crewed by whole time retained fire fighters. It was reported that this Appliance increase had now been agreed at a strategic level.
* Resolved that:
(1) the verbal report be noted; and
(2) Ian Mullen, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service be thanked for his report and his attendance at the meeting.
Councillor Pearl here left the meeting.
23 MERSEYSIDE POLICE UPDATE
A verbal report was given by temporary Superintendent Tami Garvey-Jones which updated Members on the current work and performance of Merseyside Police.
The Panel was advised on the following Operations which had taken place or were currently ongoing. These included;
Operation Shepard which had run over the festive period of December to January and had focused on Robbery, Domestic Violence, Drink Driving and Burglary which often saw a seasonal increase over this period;
Operation Target which aimed to tackle serious and violent crime by focusing on knife crime, violence in night time economy areas, county lines and drug use. The operation utilised monies from the Home Office’s Serious Violence Fund to increase the number of high visibility patrols and mobile police stations and increase disruption activities such as stop searches, roadside checks, open land searches, test purchasing and execution of warrants;
Operation Banger, which focused on tackling anti-social behaviour and serious violence during the Halloween and Bonfire night period, saw the deployment of 46 staff to target specific hot spot and micro beat locations, reassurance visits to people and premises who had been identified as being vulnerable and visiting retailers to encourage them not to sell fireworks, flour and eggs to young people during this period; and
9 3 SAFER COMMUNITIES OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY PANEL
Operation Parkland had been established following the incident at Spark at the Park reported earlier in the meeting and secured additional resources to target identified individuals. Partnership walkabouts and open land searches to recover weapons had also been conducted in both Sutton and Sherdley Park and door to door calls were undertaken to reassure and obtain information.
Superintendent Tami Garvey-Jones advised that more ‘days of action’ were planned for February/March to focus on Serious and Violent crimes particularly knife crime. Ongoing work would also be undertaken with the Danny Fox Foundation to continue to raise awareness in schools.
The Panel was also advised that funding for the Violence Reduction Unit had been secured, on the back of the Prime Minister Pledge, a bid had been placed to increase Police number locally, with regards to Local Policing a Local Engagement Model was being developed and a Governance Framework was being developed for the Community Safety Partnership in light of it changing its scope.
The Panel welcomed the additional funding for an increase in Police Officer numbers but, noted that this recruitment drive would still fail to get Police Officer numbers back up to 2010 levels. Questions were raised regarding the length of time it takes for the Police to respond to an incident and if this figure had increased since 2010 following the cuts to Police Officer numbers.
T/Superintendent Tami Garvey-Jones advised the Panel on the grading system in place to respond to incidents and agreed to provide response time figures from 2010 onwards to the Panel.
Comments were made regarding the length of time being taken to complete the ongoing review of Merseyside Police Authority Estates and development of a Police Estate Strategy which would determine the future of several smaller stations within the borough.
It was noted that this was a strategic issue that was being dealt with by the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and that it would be appropriate for the Cabinet Member to liaise with the PCC regarding its progression and report back any response to this Committee.
* Resolved that:
(1) the verbal report be noted;
(2) response figures as requested to be provided to the Panel; and
(3) t/Superintendent Tami Garvey-Jones be thanked for her attendance at the meeting.
24 UPDATE ON SCRUTINY WORK PLAN 2019/20
A report was provided to outline the new Work Programme to the Panel for review and to prioritise items for future consideration.
A Work Programme document was attached and designed to record and monitor the
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activity and plans for the Panel to effectively manage its workload and plan for future meetings.
The Panel was encouraged to review its work programme on a regular basis to ensure it remained relevant and achieved its outcomes. This report requested that the Panel reviewed the Safer Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel Work Programme attached to the report and set priorities for future Panel meetings and agree any review work to be commenced in the near future or scheduled for a later date.
The Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme Prioritisation Aid and Safer Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel Work Programme listing each of the items that fall within the remit of the Panel currently under consideration was appended to the report.
It was noted that the County Lines Task and Finish Group to investigate the issues of County Lines and local strategies to deal with it was due to commence on 24 January 2020. It was proposed that consideration should be given at the first meeting of the group to agree the elements the group would be focusing on; acknowledging that as it crossed a broad area of a number of issues such as drugs, child exploitation, burglary and car theft that it may be necessary to form two groups to break down the review further.
With regards to Domestic Abuse, it was noted that the Panel had received an extensive input today regarding the draft Domestic Abuse Strategy and would continue to support the consultation process on this. The Chair also advised that she would be meeting the Portfolio holder on Tuesday, 28 January.
* Resolved that:
(1) the work Programme be noted; and
(2) the agreed priorities of Country Lines and Domestic Abuse as initial work streams be endorsed.
-oOo-
11 This page is intentionally left blank ENVIRONMENT, REGENERATION, HOUSING, CULTURE AND LEISURE OVERVIEW 4 AND SCRUTINY PANEL
At a meeting of this Panel held on 22 January 2020
(Present) Councillor Osundeko (Chairman) Councillors Cunliffe, Mussell, Pearson, C Preston and Uddin
(Not Present) Councillors Hattersley and Haw ------
14 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Hattersley and Haw.
15 MINIUTES
* Resolved that the minutes of the meeting held on 18 September 2019, be approved and signed.
16 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST FROM MEMBERS
No Declarations of Interest from Members were made.
17 UPDATE ON VISITOR ECONOMY
The Head of Place Delivery presented a report which updated the Panel on the current status of the Visitor Economy. Members were briefed on the St Helens Visitor Economy Network, which was made up of various private sector businesses. The aim was to work together to raise the profile of St Helens within the wider Liverpool City Region and improve ongoing communications between the Council and businesses within the private sector. Due to reduced attendance the network had not met since 2018 however the authority were keen to support the relaunch of the Network in 2020.
Events Development
It was confirmed that the Events Team had been restructured and had delivered a successful events programme in 2019, as well as supporting a number of external events, such as the Rainhill Rocket 190, Clonefest, Reminisce Festival and a number of other events which took place within the borough.
Members were informed that there were already a number of events planned to take place in 2020 and beyond, including the hosting of three Rugby League World Cup Tournament 2021 games, The Good Business Festival and the high profile ‘Little Mix’ concert planned for Summer 2020.
Liverpool City Region (LCR) Destination Marketing Strategic Investment Fund (SIF) Bid.
Future support for the visitor economy was hoped to be available via a SIF bid with the Combined Authority. The application intended to deliver a three-year programme of integrated destination marketing activity for the LCR. The project was framed by a new destination marketing strategy for the LCR that had been developed in conjunction with visitor economy stakeholders over the last 18 months and followed an intensive programme of market analysis and research. In terms of delivery, the LCR Growth Company would be the accountable body and run the project and Local Authorities would be responsible for delivering the associated objectives and outputs in their regions.
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If the bid was successful, St Helens would benefit from the project by being able to participate in the overseas and domestic activity being delivered by Marketing Liverpool and in particular, would ensure that St Helens would be involved in dispersal programmes across the City Region.
Visitor Economy Challenges
There would be a number of challenges moving forward, such as improving engagement and integration between stakeholders at a destination level, to improve footfall, profile and spend, particularly in the town centre. Improving networks within LCR and the North West region and to initiate and sustain ongoing product development, quality led initiatives, skill developments, destination marketing and management and strategy development would also be key challenges. Ensuring evaluation and agree the contribution for St Helens within the LCR SIF bid would be vital.
Members raised questions with regard to the role of the Council in events taking place in the town and how the Council could maximise exposure at forthcoming events such as the Little Mix Concert, by possibly setting up stalls to promote services for example.
It was confirmed that such concerts do have their own marketing teams who would have their own aims, however meetings were due to take place between the Events Team and the organisers of the Concert and that as part of that they would be looking at how the Council could maximise relevant promotion of the authority where relevant.
It was also recognised that benefits could be gained from the transport connectivity of St Helens to other areas and cities and that maximising the potential of those links should be considered to gain increased footfall in the town.
* Resolved that the report be noted.
18 TOWN CENTRE REGENERATION
The Head of Place Delivery gave a verbal update to the Panel on the regeneration of the Town Centre.
Members were informed that although delivery hadn’t been followed through in the past for various reasons, there was now a great deal of potential for things to move forward. It was confirmed that regeneration had been a 10 year plan and that progress was being made. The acquisition of the Shopping Centre had been a major part of the basis for the plan and as that was completed it would enable plans to move forward.
It was necessary to work closely with retailers to ensure that the transition of relocation of units would not disrupt businesses and that everything would continue to run seamlessly during that period, which needed to be handled and planned correctly.
It was confirmed that a Delivery Partner for regeneration had been progressed however officers were unable to elaborate further due to legal processes which needed to be worked through and processes completed before any further information could be made public.
It was confirmed that St Helens had been selected under the ‘Towns Fund’ to gain funding from £25 million which was to be released. Once that funding was secured, it was expected that it could attract other investment as it would make the town an attractive prospect to investors.
14 ENVIRONMENT, REGENERATION, HOUSING, CULTURE AND LEISURE OVERVIEW 4 AND SCRUTINY PANEL
Members raised questions regarding communication to residents with regard to progress on the regeneration of the town centre, as many saw the closure of shops as detrimental but with no good news or progress updates to give evidence of improvement.
It was confirmed that officers understood the frustration of residents with regard to the lack of communication as to the situation and improvement plans, however it was not possible to discuss or advertise ongoing progress until things were confirmed and finalised, which was a complicated and time-consuming process.
There was interest in empty units in the town, however it was reported that business rates were a factor and some retailers preferred a smaller unit to a bigger one to maximise value. Some units in the town were larger and therefore that would deter some retailers from taking up the spaces. This was something which was being looked at. Buildings purchased for mixed use had been a popular option as it could provide residential dwellings as well as retail potential, which increased the attraction for investors.
Members also queried if the historical elements of the town were being utilised and included as part of the regeneration plans and what was being done to improve the aesthetics of the town for visitors.
It was confirmed that the historical elements of the town were important and that they would be integral to the development and to draw people into the town. The importance of the aesthetics of the town was also recognised and it was hoped that part of funding from the Liverpool City Region would be used to make improvements.
Members were informed that in comparison to some areas in the country, the footfall in St Helens town centre was much higher.
It was confirmed that the future of the High Street was a major issue nationally. It was likely that the High Street would not be the same as it had been in the past and that it was necessary on a local and national level to find ways to move forward and ensure that it could survive against the pressures and challenges created by the increase in online shopping and marketing and the change in shopping habits.
* Resolved that the report be noted
19 FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT
The Flood Risk Engineer presented a report on Flood Risk Management.
The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 was introduced by the Government. The Act required the creation of Lead Local Flood Authorities (LLFA) to take the lead in managing local flood risk and to coordinate the involvement of all relevant groups in the process. One of the main functions of the Act was for Local Authorities to produce a living Flood Risk Management Strategy. St Helens Council had completed it’s consultation phase on its second version of the Strategy which would be used until 2025.
Numerous organisations, agencies and authorities and the public have roles and responsibilities relating to flood risk management, which included:
Riparian Land Owners (owners of land adjoining a watercourse or which has watercourse running underneath or through it); Environment Agency (EA) – responsible for managing flood risk on all designated Main Rivers and large raised reservoirs in St Helens; St Helens Council (Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA)) – responsible for flood risk management of surface water runoff, ordinary watercourses and groundwater; 15 4 ENVIRONMENT, REGENERATION, HOUSING, CULTURE AND LEISURE OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY PANEL
United Utilities (UU)– responsible for managing the Public Sewer Network and risks of flooding from surface water, foul and/or combined sewer system; Communities and Parish Councils – contribute an important role at community level of reporting any flood incidents; and Developers – responsible for ensuring their development has no negative impact on flood risk both on site and to others and to provide betterment wherever possible.
While there was no duty for the LLFA to undertake works for flood mitigation, it would where possible undertake actions and interventions to reduce flood risk.
Interventions were usually prioritised by the immediate risk, cost and any secondary effects, followed by the accessibility of delivery. The authority had a limited budget to investigate flood issues and for some minor works large scale flood schemes required grants or contributions from the EA, UU or other organisations.
Some of the contributions sources were: Flood Defence Grant in Aid (FDGiA); Quick Win Funding; Council Budgets; and Partnership Bids.
It was reported that the LLFA would continue to work with partners and follow the statutory duties of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 and any subsequent changes or revisions. Developments and schemes would continue to assess the human, environment and climate change impacts based on evolving technology, flood models and understanding.
The impact of climate change was not fully known however more extreme weather conditions were expected and the danger to the authority would be the condition and capacity of both known and unknown assets across the borough and how they would react in the future.
It was reported that the LLFA would welcome any input from the Panel on potential options with regard to resources, procedures and funding options.
Members queried what the issues were with regard to flooding on College Street, whether they were due to funding or structural reasons.
It was confirmed that the problems on College Street were due to both funding and the geology of the area. Funding was reliant on the extent of the risk to the surrounding areas – ie, significant risk to residential properties as well as businesses. College Street although there were businesses, was not a residential site and therefore the risk was not considered as great which in turn reduced the prospect of funding.
It was confirmed however that in partnership with the Environment Agency and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, a plan had been put together for a scheme to resolve the issues on College Street. The funding was a one-off payment and therefore ongoing future maintenance was not something which would receive funds. It would be necessary to make preparations and allowances for that in terms of the work undertaken to resolve the issues in the first instance, to ensure that the need for future maintenance would be reduced or manageable.
It was hoped that work would begin in February, however it was a complicated process as it needed to take into account the geology and ecology of the area. 16 ENVIRONMENT, REGENERATION, HOUSING, CULTURE AND LEISURE OVERVIEW 4 AND SCRUTINY PANEL
* Resolved that:
(1) the report be noted; and
(2) an update on the progress of the actions being taken to resolve issues on College Street be provided to Panel members prior to next meeting scheduled for 18 March 2020..
20 HIGHWAYS MAINTENANCE
The Engineering Service Manager presented a report and briefed the Panel on the Council’s responsibilities as the Highway Authority for Highway maintenance, current operating and potential future developments.
It was reported that the United Kingdom Liaison Group (UKLG) had produced a Well Managed Highway Infrastructure – A Code of Practice (WMHI), which applied across the United Kingdom and had recommendations for highway maintenance which all Highway Authorities should implement. As a Highway Authority, the Council must ensure that the requirements of the National Code of Practice are achieved.
A working group of Highway Managers and Insurance colleagues developed the St Helens Highway Code of Practice (HCoP) which used the requirements of the Code of Practice for highway inspections and repairs.
The highway network in St Helens was the largest asset and included approximately 2600 roads and 1048km of footway.
It was reported that there was a backlog of structural maintenance and it was therefore important to make the best use of the resources available to the Council for repairs and maintenance to ensure the network remained in a serviceable condition for all road users. The Council had put in place a system for reviewing and prioritising all highway maintenance defects to ensure resources were used in the most effective way through three main areas of work:
reactive maintenance – which deal with immediate risk to the public from minor defects; structural maintenance - which addressed large scale refurbishment due to significant deterioration of the highway structure; and preventative maintenance – planned strategy of cost effective treatments to a road/footway to extend the life by treating at the optimum time.
The Panel were also informed that a number of innovative practices had also been successfully undertaken to repair roads and footways in the most cost-effective way.
The schedule of planned highway maintenance works was set out in to different categories:
reactive repair works; and structural and preventative maintenance.
Every authority was also required to coordinate works on the network, ensuring that all major planned works by utility companies were co-ordinated. St Helens operate a Permit Scheme to manage co-ordination of works. Works promoters applied and paid for permits to occupy road space to carry out works.
17 4 ENVIRONMENT, REGENERATION, HOUSING, CULTURE AND LEISURE OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY PANEL
In April 2016 the government confirmed the level of transport capital funding that would be allocated to the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA) between 2016/17 and 2020/21 for transport funding. The LCRCA were targeting funding on locally significant routes in the City Region known as the Key Route Network (KRN) which it was reported would inevitably reduce funding available for the remaining local network.
The Panel were informed that any input or suggestion regarding future developments of the service would be welcomed.
A survey was tabled, which Members were informed was sent out randomly to households by 139 local authorities to residents to gage public opinion on the service provided in terms of maintenance of the highways in their relevant boroughs. It was confirmed that 684 were returned in St Helens which was approximately a 64% return rate and that the feedback was generally positive from the survey.
Members queried if there was a system for priority for maintenance and if any scheduled work would be changed if another priority presented as more urgent. It was confirmed that a schedule of proposed works was set at the beginning of the year, however that was not publicised as it could change during the year if higher priority works were identified.
It was also queried if the Council liaised with neighbouring authorities when works occur on the border of areas so that works don’t clash with neighbouring authority works and cause traffic issues.
It was confirmed that communication did take place with neighbouring authorities, particularly if road closures would mean increased traffic in a particular area relevant to another borough, to ensure that disruption was kept to a minimum. In terms of co- ordinating schedules however, that was difficult if works needed to take place within a certain time frame, so it was not possible to guarantee that there would be no clashes.
It was also queried about the communication with the public with regard to publicising planned works or road closures and when issues arise which would affect routes. It was confirmed that communication was important and that a dedicated officer for communications had been appointed who provided regular updates and communications. It was also confirmed that there was an online system which planned works were kept updated.
* Resolved that the report be noted.
21 SCRUTINY WORK PROGRAMME 2019/20
The Scrutiny Manager presented the Scrutiny Work Programme document for the Panel to review and to prioritise items for future consideration. The Panel discussed the areas that they considered a priority for reporting to the March meeting of the Panel, which included: The Gamble building and Earlestown plans; Library Services Review Waste Collection; Fly Tipping; Decontamination of Brownfield land; and Borough Housing Needs.
Due to the limitations in timing for meetings, it was agreed that the Library Services Review incorporate a brief update on the Gamble building in terms of the position of the archives in light of the relocation of the Library Service to another building. 18 ENVIRONMENT, REGENERATION, HOUSING, CULTURE AND LEISURE OVERVIEW 4 AND SCRUTINY PANEL
It was also agreed that Waste Collection should incorporate a brief update on Fly Tipping with regards to if there had been an increase in numbers.
The possibility of an update on decontamination of Brownfield land was discussed as it had been 2016 when the last report had been submitted. Due to the amount of topics already suggested to be brought to the next meeting, it was agreed that the Scrutiny Manager would look at notes from the previous Scrutiny Manager who was in post at the time to see what updates were recommended in 2016 and to consult with officers to see if anything had been progressed so that he could inform Members of the current situation.
* Resolved that:
(1) the report be noted; and
(2) the following topics be brought to the next meeting of the Panel:
An update on the Review of the Library Service (including update on the position of the Gamble building and Archives); Waste Collection and Fly Tipping; and The Borough’s Housing Needs.
-oOo-
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Place Services Scrutiny Committee
23 November 2020
Report Title: Cabinet Response to Scrutiny Review of the Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics
Cabinet Portfolio Environment & Transport
Cabinet Member Councillor Andy Bowden
Exempt Report No
Reason for Exemption N/A
Key Decision No
Public Notice issued N/A
Wards Affected None
Lisa Harris Executive Director of Place Services Report of [email protected] Tel: 07968 616638
Tony Galloway Director of Operations (Interim) Contact Officer [email protected] Tel: 07925 348057
21 9
Borough Ensure children and young people have a positive start in life priorities Please mark X Promote good health, independence and care across our communities for any priority supported by this report Create safe and strong communities for our residents
NB Use Section 4 - Support a strong, diverse and well-connected local economy Background Information to explain how Create a green, thriving and vibrant place to be proud of X each selected priority is supported Be a modern, efficient and effective Council
1. Summary
1.1 This report presents to the Scrutiny Committee the action plan approved by Cabinet in response to the recommendations made by the former Scrutiny Panel following their review of the Council’s use of paper and plastics.
2. Recommendations for Decision
Place Services Scrutiny Committee is recommended to:
i) note the Action Plan attached at Appendix 1 setting out the response to the recommendations arising from the Scrutiny Review of the Council’s use of paper & plastics.
3. Purpose of this Report
3.1 To outline the approved action plan in response to the recommendations arising from the Scrutiny Review.
4. Background /Reasons for the recommendations
4.1 The former Environment, Regeneration, Housing, Culture & Leisure Scrutiny Panel commissioned a task and finish group to review the Council’s use of paper and plastics as part of its work programme for 2019/20. The Panel’s report and recommendations were reported to Cabinet on 23 September 2020. The Panel made fifteen recommendations and the Action Plan attached at Appendix 1 sets out the response to each of these and the timescales for completion of the actions identified.
4.2 The Council’s Constitution provides rules regarding the submission of reports by Overview and Scrutiny to Cabinet and the provision of a response to reports by Cabinet; as set out in Sections 8 and 9 of the Overview and Scrutiny Procedure Rules contained in Part 4 of the Constitution. In summary, the Constitution requires Overview and Scrutiny to submit reports to Cabinet, with a response from a member of the Cabinet, nominated by the Leader, and officers to be provided within one month of receiving the report.
4.3 The response of Cabinet will be presented to the Place Services Scrutiny Committee meeting on 24 November 2020 where the nominated Cabinet Member and officers will be requested to present the response. 22 9 5. Community Impact Assessment
The Community Impact Assessment identified the following key implications
5.1 The recommendations from the Paper and Plastic Scrutiny Review will need to be embedded within the Environmental Impact Assessment, which is part of the Council’s Community Impact Assessment tool. This is currently the main tool through which the recommendations of the Task and Finish Group will be implemented and embedded within all future Council decisions, policies, and commissioning.
5.2 The full Community Impact Assessment is attached at Appendix 2.
6 Consideration of Alternatives
6.1 None. There is a requirement under the Council’s Constitution for a member of the Cabinet, nominated by the Leader, to provide a response to the report and recommendations submitted by Overview and Scrutiny.
7 Conclusions
7.1 Some of the recommendations in the scrutiny review relate to issues which have already been addressed as a result of being accelerated due to the Covid-19 pandemic, for example the IT device refresh programme.
8. Implications
8.1 Legal Implications
8.1.1 The recommendations for Cabinet to consider this report and provide a response adheres to the rules within the Constitution and comply with legislation relating to overview and scrutiny.
8.2 Community Impact Assessment (CIA) Implications
8.2.1 Social Value
8.2.1.1 It is noted that some recommendations within the report relate to the Council’s use of (and therefore purchasing of) particular supplies and equipment which may have implications for local spending and procurement.
8.2.2 Sustainability and Environment
8.2.2.1 The Task and Finish Group recommendations support the reduction of consumption – with the proposed move to both a paper light and plastic light policies, and a clear target for the reduction of paper consumption.
8.2.3 Health and Wellbeing
8.2.3.1 None
8.2.4 Equality and Human Rights
8.2.4.1 It is acknowledged within the Task Group Report that some of its recommendations could not be applied across all employees/customers of the Council given potential additional needs to access documents i.e. the use of certain technology or paper copies of documents for those with visual impairment needs or other disability.23 9
8.3 Customers and Resident
8.3.1 Some of the recommendations in the Task Group Report may lead to changes in the way services are provided to customers/residents.
8.4 Asset and Property
8.4.1 The Task Group Report does not make direct proposals in relation to the Council’s asset base or its occupation however some of the recommendations relating to ways of working within the Council may have implications for occupancy. However, these recommendations relate to strategies (such as agile working) that the Council is already developing/employing where consideration is being/has been given to the implications for the Council’s asset base and occupancy already.
8.5 Staffing and Human Resource
8.5.1 None
8.6 Risks - What are the issues? How are we mitigating them?
8.6.1 Some of the recommendations are cross-cutting and impact on different areas of the Council. A Climate Action Working Group to be established by March 2021 will lead on the implementation of the cross-cutting issues.
8.7 Finance
8.7.1 Reductions in the use of paper and plastics will lead to reduced expenditure within each department. The actual reduction in expenditure will depend upon the timing of implementation of recommendations in the Action Plan and the quantum of reduced usage. The financial impact will be reported to Members, as part of future Financial Monitoring Reports, where applicable.
8.8 Policy Framework Implications
8.8.1 The Task Group Report includes some recommendations related to new or existing policies and strategies.
9. Background papers
9.1 Overview and Scrutiny Commission Agenda and Minutes of meeting held on 20 July 2020
Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics Task and Finish Group Report
Community Impact Assessment
10. Appendices
10.1 Appendix 1 – Table of Recommendations & Actions
24 Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics
Recommendation Responsible Agreed Action and Date of Implementation Officer Rec No A That the use of Joanne Griffiths Implemented with immediate effect. Members invited to bring their own re-usable water disposable paper MBE bottle. or plastic cups for Council meetings (e.g. Cabinet, Scrutiny and Regulatory Committees) be phased out and that reusable cups be provided. 25 B That Councillors Joanne Griffiths Implemented with immediate effect upon return to hybrid or physical meetings. be requested to MBE bring their own reusable cups/bottles to meetings held at the Town Hall and that provisions for storage of these cups/bottles be made in the Members’ Room. C That all agendas, Joanne Griffiths Paper copies only provided by exception. presentations and MBE Members now have an additional monitor so they can have the documents Agenda/presentation/documents open on one screen and the remote meeting open on their provided during device (surface pro). Council meetings
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Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics
and training The updated version of Modern.Gov App has been rolled out to Members and is easier to courses should be use so agendas are easily accessible. provided Training has been and will be continuously offered to Members on how to use the App. electronically in advance of the November 2020 meeting/training session. Paper copies should only be provided to Councillors and Officers if specifically requested or if required due to additional needs. 26 D That as of the May Joanne Griffiths Work had begun on an electronic induction pack for May 2020 but due to the Covid 2020 local MBE/ Pandemic the local elections were cancelled and the pack was not required. The pack is to elections, Jenny Pritchard be developed ready for the scheduled local elections in May 2021. councillors’ induction packs be March 2021 provided digitally and not in paper format unless specifically required due to a councillor’s individual needs.
E That the Council Joanne Griffiths Implemented with immediate effect. Paper diaries have ceased and Members encouraged to no longer produce MBE use their electronic diary. paper diaries containing dates
2 Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics
of Council and Committee meetings and that Officers and Councillors be encouraged to use their digital calendars. F That the role of a Interim Director of Green advocates to be appointed from each Directorate by the Accountable Officer. 'green advocate' Operations be developed and February 2021. officers from each Tony Galloway directorate be encouraged to
27 become an advocate and actively engage in initiatives to reduce the Council’s paper and plastics use. G That a Climate Interim Director of A Climate Action Working Group to be established by March 2021. The Climate Action Action working Operations Group will build upon and compiement the basic climate change work that has been done group be by Reset and Recovery groups. established to lead Tony Galloway on developing and March 2021 implementing initiatives to reduce the Council’s paper and plastics use. The working group
3 9 9
Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics
should include councillor representation and engage with green advocates. H That the Council Interim Director of Accountable Officer to be appointed by December 2020. The Accountable Officer once appoints an Operations appointed will recruit and liaise with the green advocates and administer the Climate Action accountable Group. officer overseeing Tony Galloway and leading on December 2020 climate change issues. This role should include responsibility for administering the 28 Climate Action working group; recruiting and liaising with green advocates and promoting environmentally friendly practices within the Council and its partners. I That all Interim Director of Climate emergency training to be offered to all members by March 2021. APSE Energy Councillors and Operations could be used to provide the training or Carbon Literacy training which is an accredited Senior Officers climate change training course. undergo training Tony Galloway on the climate March 2021 emergency by March 2021, with
4 Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics
Cabinet Members receiving the training as a priority. J That following a Interim Director of As a result of the ongoing restrictions introduced in response to the covid 19 pandemic and baseline review of Operations the introduction of remote working and virtual meetings via online Teams, Zoom, Skype. etc, paper use for the the Council use of paper has already been significantly reduced. The Council has also 2019/20 municipal Tony Galloway embraced new digital processes and therefore the digitalisation of some back office year, the Council functions will help to reduce the use of paper. A new baseline will therefore be set as at should review its March 2021, with a revised equivalent 50% target put in place to be achieved by March systems and 2022. processes to reduce total March 2022 annual paper use
29 to 70% by 31st March 2021 and to 50% by 31st March 2022. These targets apply to the Council as a whole, not individual teams (i.e. some may be able to reduce paper use by more than 50%, others may already be relatively paper light). K That all services Ste Sharples Recommendation N includes the update on the production of reports with two accompanying receive regular high-level graphs from the system showing the status of print, scan and copy over the six-
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Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics
reports regarding month periods of September 2019 to March 2020 and April 2020 – September 2020. These their printer usage reports and graphs will be circulated to services to monitor and review their associated print to enable them to usage. monitor their paper use to December 2020 assist teams in achieving the targets they are set for paper reduction. L That the Council Rob Huntington The introduction of remote working and virtual meetings in response to Covid-19 has already creates a paper seen a significant reduction in the use of paper. The development of a Paper Light Policy light policy to will fall within the remit of the Climate Action Group which will be established by March 2021. encourage staff to decrease their September 2021 30 paper usage. This should include guidelines such as: how best to utilise digital technology instead of paper; not printing out emails; the types of paper available via stationary supplies; being conscious of the type of paper used for different purposes; how
6 Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics
services should monitor paper use. M That the Council Rob Huntington Much of this work is currently in progress as part of the Council’s post Covid Reset & creates a plastic Recovery. The development of a formal plastic light policy will be undertaken by the Climate light policy to Action Group which will be established by March 2021. encourage staff to decrease their September 2021 plastics usage. This should include guidelines such as: discourage the use of single use plastics in
31 stationery (i.e. reduce laminating, use of plastic wallets) and discourage the use of single use plastics at meetings or events. N That the Council Ste Sharples The Council’s multi-function device (MFD) estate will be reviewed as it reaches its end of life. review its fleet of Monitoring reports have been produced which now identify the use of these devices and multifunctional trends over six-month periods or more frequent. The graphs in these reports (below) show devices (MFDs). the reduction in usage from the period October 2019 – March 2020 and April 2020 – The aim of the September 2020 where there has been a huge decrease in print services. review should be to reduce the This reduction is largely due to the immediate effect of the pandemic. However, a reduction number of devices due to the completion of the desktop refresh programme was expected, which will be provided across reflected as part of this reduction and thereby reducing not only the paper consumed but
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Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics
the Council’s other consumables (like ink cartridges) plus the reduction in “click charge” payments to the estate, ensuring vendor each month. the devices are appropriately located. This will ensure more efficient use of devices and reduce the Council’s consumption of plastic contained within devices. 32
The reports, including expanded data by device, will be used to inform directorates of how print, scan and copy continues to be used and will form the basis for the introduction of some of the existing MFD units into the new agile hub (as a centralised Print, Copy and Scan facility). The use of these MFD’s in the new agile hub will in turn be monitored to inform the MFD refresh process as to the usage being made and to ensure the Council operates with the optimum (reduced) fleet footprint aligned to its new way of working, reducing the use of paper and plastics and representing a financial saving to the Council.
September 2021
8 Council’s Use of Paper and Plastics
O That the Council’s Rob This will involve a wide range of stakeholders and officers from across the Council and will Communications Huntington/Jayne also involve the community. Strategy Taylor incorporates a December 2020 section on promoting the Council’s green initiatives, highlighting the positive impacts on the borough and wider environment. 33
9 9 This page is intentionally left blank 11 Place Services Scrutiny Committee
23 November 2020
Report Title: Place Services Scrutiny Committee Work Programme
Cabinet Portfolio Finance and Governance
Cabinet Member Cllr Bond
Exempt Report No
Reason for Exemption N/A
Key Decision No
Public Notice issued N/A
Wards Affected All
Jan Bakewell Director of Legal and HR Report of [email protected] 01744 673209
James Morley Scrutiny Manager Contact Officer [email protected] 01744 676277
35 11
Ensure children and young people have a positive start in life
Promote good health, independence and care across Borough priorities our communities Please mark X for any priority supported by this Create safe and strong communities for our residents X report Support a strong, diverse and well-connected local X economy
Create a green, thriving and vibrant place to be proud X of
Be a modern, efficient and effective Council
1. Summary
This cover report informs the Committee about the work programme setting process. Managing the work programme is an important part of an efficient and effective Overview and Scrutiny Function.
2. Recommendations
Place Services Scrutiny Committee is recommended to review the items listed within the work programme document and agree priorities and timescales.
3. Purpose of this Report
To present the Scrutiny Committee with the new Work Programme document for review to prioritise items for future consideration.
4. Background
4.1 A comprehensive work programme is fundamental to the effectiveness of the Scrutiny Committee as it enables the Scrutiny Committee to plan and manage its workload to make best use of the available time and resources, to add the most value to the performance of the Council and achieve good outcomes for residents.
4.2 The attached work programme document is designed to record and monitor the activity and plans for the Scrutiny Committee to effectively manage the workload and plan for future meetings. Each column of the work programme table provides key information about each item including a description of the issue and purpose of bringing it to the Scrutiny Committee. The document lists each of the items that fall within the remit of the Scrutiny Committee that were recommended for retention by the previous Overview and Scrutiny Commission on 20th July 2020 prior to the recent changes to the Scrutiny Committee Structure. The work programme also reflects Committee’s discussions at its informal work programme meeting on 21st October 2020 and discussions between the Committee Chair and relevant Cabinet Members regarding items
36 11 specific to their portfolios. Members are requested to give consideration to the resource implications of their work load given the impact the current COVID-19 Pandemic is having on the capacity of officers to support any piece of scrutiny work.
5. Reviewing the Work Programme
5.1 When reviewing the work programme, new items can be added and items that no longer require scrutiny or are not considered to be a priority for action or monitoring can be removed.
5.2 When considering whether to add, remove and prioritise items for consideration Members should be mindful of the following: Would the Committee be able to add value through its work on the issue? Is the issue linked to a Corporate Priority for the Council? Is the issue a priority/concern for partners, stakeholders and the public? Is the issue related to poorly performing services? Is there a pattern of budgetary overspends? Are there significant levels of public/service user dissatisfaction with the service? Has there been media coverage of the issue? Is the issue related to new Government guidance? Would consideration of the issue be timely? Are there sufficient resources to effectively consider the issue at this time? Would the Committee be duplicating work being undertaken elsewhere? Is the matter subject to judicial review (sub judice)?
5.3 The Work Programme Prioritisation Aid attached to this report is designed to assist members in considering whether a suggested addition to the work programme is suitable and meets the necessary criteria. If Members, consider that a suggestion would not be suitable for scrutiny the Scrutiny Committee could choose to refer the matter elsewhere. If an item is considered to be an important issue but not a priority at this time an item may be added to the end of the work programme to be monitored for further consideration in the future.
6. Conclusions
6.1 The Scrutiny Committee is requested to discuss its work programme and set priorities for future Committee meetings and agree any review work (i.e. task and finish) to be commenced in the near future or scheduled for a later date.
7. Implications
7.1 Financial Implications
7.1.1 None
7.2 Legal Implications
7.2.1 None
7.3 Staffing/HR Implications
7.3.1 None
7.4 Impact on our customers/residents 37 11
7.4.1 None
7.5 Community Impact Assessment
7.5.1 None
7.6 Asset / Property Implications
7.6.1 None
7.7 Environmental implications
7.7.1 None
7.8 Policy Framework Implications
7.8.1 None
7.9 Risks
7.9.1 Failure to effectively manage the work programme could lead to inefficient use of the Committee’s time and resources, negatively affecting the Committee’s ability to add value and help the Council achieve its priorities. By examining the work programme regularly and following the prioritisation aid as recommended by this report the Committee should minimize the risk of using time and resources on ineffective items.
7.10 Link to council’s priorities
7.10.1 The Place Services Scrutiny Committee is responsible for monitoring and contributing to the achievement of the Council’s priorities to “Create safe and strong communities for our residents, Support a strong, diverse and well-connected local economy, and Create a green, thriving and vibrant place to be proud of”.
8. Background papers None
9. Appendices
Work Programme Prioritisation Aid Place Services Scrutiny Committee Work Programme
38 11 Appendix 1 Overview and Scrutiny Work Programme Prioritisation Aid
39 11
40 Last Updated 13/11/2020
Place Services Scrutiny Committee Work Programme
Corporate Priorities Next Three Meetings Support a strong, diverse and well-connected local economy Date: 23rd November 2020 Date: 19th January 2021 Date: 23rd March 2021 Create safe and strong communities for our residents Time: 5pm Time: 4:30pm Time: 4:30pm Create a green, thriving and vibrant place to be proud of Venue: Virtual via Teams Venue: Virtual (TBC) Venue: Virtual (TBC)
Title Description Aims/Purpose Portfolio Lead Officer Corporate Priority Method Date Council’s Use of Task Group Review To receive the Cabinet Environment Lisa Harris Create a green, Report to 23rd Nov Paper and conducted into how the response to the Task and Transport thriving and vibrant Committee 2020 Plastics Task Council could reduce its Group’s (Cllr Bowden) place to be proud of Group paper and plastics use for recommendations and Agenda
41 the benefit of the continue to monitor the deadline: environment. implementation of the 13th Nov Recommendations of the response. review were submitted to Cabinet for consideration on 23rd Sept 2020 Anti-Social Previous Panel received a To monitor the Safer, Stronger Sam Murray Create safe and Report to 23rd Nov Behaviour during report in January 2020 effectiveness of Communities strong communities Committee 2020 Bonfire Night and about initiatives to reduce initiatives to reduce (Cllr Bell) for our residents Halloween ASB during Halloween and incidents of Anti-Social Agenda Bonfire Night. Committee Behaviour associated deadline wishes to have a report on with Halloween and Bon 13th Nov 2020 activity. Fire Night. Performance Scrutiny Committees are To use performance Safer, Stronger Lisa Harris All Report to 23rd Nov
Reports responsible for reviewing reports to monitor the Communities / Committee 2020 the performance reports performance of services Environment
for Portfolios relevant to within portfolios and and Transport / Agenda Regeneration deadline their remit at Q2 and Q4. 11 11
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Title Description Aims/Purpose Portfolio Lead Officer Corporate Priority Method Date hold Cabinet Members and Planning / 13th Nov to account. Public Heath Leisure, Libraries and Heritage St Helens Town In March 2020 the Council To inform the Regeneration Lisa Harris Support a strong Presentation to 23rd Nov Centre announced a partnership Committee about and Planning diverse and well- Committee 2020 Management/ with English Cities Fund to current plans in relation (Cllr McCauley) connected local Regeneration redevelop parts of the to the Management of St economy Borough (including the Helens Town Centre and Town Centre) over the its Regeneration next 20 years. Leasehold Notice of Motion to To respond to the Notice Regeneration & Stephen Create safe and Report to 19th Jan Tenures Council on 11 September of Motion from Council Planning Tracey strong communities Committee 2021 42 2019 required the Scrutiny (Cllr McCauley) for our residents. Chair to consider this issue Agenda Create a green, Deadline: thriving and vibrant 11th Jan place to be proud of Library Services The Council has a statutory To monitor the process Public Health, Stephen Create safe and Report to 19th Jan duty to provide a of reviewing the library Leisure, Tracey/Dave strong communities Committee 2021 comprehensive and service, impact of Libraries and Boocock for our residents. efficient library service. COVID-19 closures and Heritage Agenda Library services at St plans for further re- (Cllr Burns) Support a strong deadline: Helens Council have been openings. To ensure the diverse and well- 11th Jan under review. Previous Council continues to connected local Panel was due to receive a meet its statutory duties. economy. report in March 2020. Create a green, thriving and vibrant place to be proud of. Last Updated 13/11/2020
Title Description Aims/Purpose Portfolio Lead Officer Corporate Priority Method Date Fly Tipping Members have expressed To consider whether fly Environment Tony Create a green, Report to 19th Jan about levels of fly-tipping tipping is a significant and Transport Galloway / thriving and vibrant Committee 2021 in parts of the Borough. issue in the Borough and (Cllr Bowden) Director of place to be proud of Members requested data if so what more could be Operations Agenda on fly-tipping and bulky done to address the deadline: rubbish collection. issue. Any data on 11th Jan impact of Christmas period to be emailed to Members. Domestic Abuse The Domestic Abuse To support the Safer, Stronger Sam Murray Create safe and Report to 23rd March Strategy Strategy was developed development of the Communities strong communities Committee 2020 and due to be approved by Domestic Abuse Strategy (Cllr Bell) for our residents Cabinet in March 2020 but and receive an update Agenda meeting was postponed. on progress. To report Deadline: 43 Previous Panel reviewed on the meeting which 15th March the draft strategy at an took place on 5th March informal meeting on 5th 2020. March 2020 Waste and There is due to be a full- To consider the review Environment Tony Create a green, Report to TBC Recycling scale review of waste and and provide feedback to and Transport Galloway / thriving and vibrant Committee Collection recycling conducted by the officers and portfolio (Cllr Bowden) Director of place to be proud of Council. The review is holders to support its Operations currently being scoped by development. To officers. monitor the progress of the review and receive the findings when
complete.
Leisure Services Leisure Services within the To consider the impact Public Health, Stephen Create safe and Report to TBC
borough have been closed of Covid-19 closures on Leisure, Tracey / Dave strong communities Committee
for a significant part of leisure services, how the Libraries and Boocock for our residents. service adapted during 11 11
Last Updated 13/11/2020
Title Description Aims/Purpose Portfolio Lead Officer Corporate Priority Method Date 2020 due to the Covid-19 the pandemic, and plans Heritage pandemic. for further re-openings. (Cllr Burns) Sustainable In 2019, an initial Task To consider current Environment Steve Littler Create a green, Task and Finish TBC Transport Group meeting was held to models of sustainable and Transport thriving and vibrant Group look at Road Safety Around transport in the borough (Cllr Bowden) place to be proud of Schools. Given the Covid- (and other areas) and 19 pandemic, there is now the impact of this on a focus on sustainable issues such as road transport models. safety around schools. Members to consider if sustainable transport could be incorporated into the UN Sustainable Development Goals 44 work. UN Sustainable The United Nations The purpose of the task Environment Kath Create a green, Task and Finish TBC Development Sustainable Development group would be to and Transport O’Dwyer thriving and vibrant Group Global Goals Goals (SDGs) or Global create a system that (Cllr Bowden) place to be proud of Goals are a collection of 17 aligns and tracks the interlinked goals designed Council’s achievement of to be a "blueprint to the SDGs against the achieve a better and more borough priorities. This sustainable future for all". group will look at ways the targets can be met and how this will add value to the work of the Council. Borough’s Having the right type of To investigate what type Safer, Stronger Stephen Create safe and Task and Finish TBC Housing Needs housing to meet residents’ of housing needs the Communities Tracey strong communities Group needs is key to their borough has; how the (Cllr Bell) for our residents wellbeing. This can include Council can ensure Last Updated 13/11/2020
Title Description Aims/Purpose Portfolio Lead Officer Corporate Priority Method Date the right housing provision sufficient supply of and the quality of housing. specific types housing e.g. for families with disabled children; and the quality of housing. Knife Crime Knife Crime is a local and Continue to receive Safer, Stronger Sam Murray Create safe and Report to TBC national issue. Report on regular updates on the Communities strong communities Committee local initiatives to reduce work being undertaken (Cllr Bell) for our residents knife crime received by around Knife Crime. Panel in Sept 2019. Panel requested an update at a future meeting on the performance and impact of the Violence Reduction 45 Unit in tackling crime. Prevent Strategy For local authorities, a key To hold a spotlight Safer, Stronger Jennifer Create safe and Spotlight December element of the Prevent review into the role of Communities Dinsdale / strong communities Review 2020 – date programme is on the Council in delivering (Cllr Bell) Stephen for our residents TBC safeguarding and the Prevent Strategy, Tracey supporting individuals who and examine the impact might be vulnerable to of lockdown on those radicalisation. individuals potentially vulnerable to radicalisation.
People’s Board This Committee is the To carry out Committee Safer, Stronger Sam Murray/ Create safe and Regular Email Following
(Community Council’s Crime and role in relation to the Communities Ian Mullen/ strong communities Updates to each Safer
Safety Disorder Committee under Community Safety (Cllr Bell) Steve Brizell for our residents Members St Helens
Partnership / Scrutiny Regs and is Partnership managed Executive Safer St Helens responsible to scrutiny of through the People’s Board Executive Board) Community Safety Board. meeting 11 11
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Title Description Aims/Purpose Portfolio Lead Officer Corporate Priority Method Date partners including Council, Police and Fire Service. 46