Merton Council Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

Membership:

The Mayor, Councillor Nick Draper The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Karin Forbes

Councillors Tariq Ahmad, Agatha Akyigyina, Stephen Alambritis, Mark Allison, Stephen Austin, Mark Betteridge, John Bowcott, Margaret Brierly, William Brierly, Jeremy Bruce, Angela Caldara, Richard Chellew, David Chung, David Dean, John Dehaney, Chris Edge, Corinna Edge, Samantha George, Maurice Groves, Marc Hanson, Philip Jones, Andrew Judge, Stephen Kerin, Linda Kirby, Sheila Knight, Patricia Lewis, Brian Lewis-Lavender, Gilli Lewis-Lavender, Edith Macauley, Russell Makin, Barbara Mansfield, Denise March, Maxi Martin, Peter McCabe, Krystal Miller, Oonagh Moulton, Ian Munn, Diane Neil Mills, Henry Nelless, Dennis Pearce, George Reynolds, Judy Saunders, Linda Scott, Rod Scott, Deborah Shears, David Simpson, Zenia Squires-Jamison, Peter Southgate, Geraldine Stanford, Gregory Udeh, Leighton Veale, Jonathan Warne, Martin Whelton, David Williams, Krysia Williams Richard Williams, Ronald Wilson and Simon Withey

Date: Wednesday 3 February 2010

Time: 7.15pm Venue: Civic Centre, London Road, , Surrey in the Council Chamber

This is a public meeting and attendance by the public is encouraged and welcomed. For information about this agenda please contact [email protected] or telephone 020 8545 3361.

All Press contacts [email protected] 020 8545 3181

www.merton.gov.uk Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda 3 February 2010 1. Apologies for absence 2. Declarations of Interest 1 3. To approve the minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held 25 November 2009 7 and 71 and the Extraordinary Meeting held on 25 November 2010 4. To receive any announcements from the Mayor, Leader of the Council and - the Chief Executive 5. Questions from Councillors (to be circulated at the meeting) - 6. Strategic Objective Review – Sustainable Communities (Street Scene) 73 7. Reports of Community Forums (a) and North East Community Forum 85 (b) Mitcham Community Forum 91 (c) Morden Community Forum 97 (d) Wimbledon Community Forum 105 (e) Community Forum 113 8. Notices Of Motion The following motions have been received pursuant to Paragraph 2.3(k) of Part 4A of the Council’s Constitution: Motion 1 Submitted by Councillors Maxi Martin, Geraldine Stanford and Agatha Akyigyina This council condemns the ongoing burden on Merton residents of the cost of resident and visitor parking permits. Council is concerned that this financial year’s decision to increase visitor permit fees was taken on 27 February 2009, before the Council’s Budget meeting, but that a copy of the decision was not distributed to Councillors until 6 April, and that even though the Sustainable Communities Scrutiny Panel had asked for “information on revised parking fees”. Members were not informed of the detail of the decision until after the Budget meeting, and therefore had no opportunity to amend the decision or conduct a Call-In.

This Council further notes that no contemporaneous legal advice about the decision was sought. Council also notes that the decision was “based upon no elasticity of demand” and condemns the maximisation of revenue from parking permits in residential zones across the borough as a source of general income for the council.

This council notes that the cost of a visitors half day parking permit has increased by 150% since 2006 (£1 April 2006, £2.50 April 2009), whilst the cost of an annual resident parking permit has increased by 44% (£45 April

www.merton.gov.uk 2006, £65 April 2009) in the same time period. Visitors full day parking permits have increased by 25% since 2006 (£2 April 2006, £2.50 April 2009) whilst additional resident annual parking permits have increased by between 33% and 37.5% (£80-£105 April 2006, £110-£140 April 2009). This council acknowledges that this represents a huge increase in income for the council which is not justified in relation to the cost of providing the service. Motion 2 Submitted by Councillors Maxi Martin, Geraldine Stanford and Agatha Akyigyina This council condemns Merton’s Conservative administration and owners Golfrate for their failure to address the blighting of the local community by the Tower in Colliers Wood. This Council is concerned that the temporary green netting and boarded windows have become a permanent feature and that there has been no other work to remedy safety concerns or improve the appearance of the Tower since. This Council believes the dilapidation is contributing to anti-social activities in the Borough, and calls on the Cabinet Member and Golfrate to agree a sustainable solution to this issue and ensure the redevelopment of the Tower is achieved, as agreed by Planning Committee, with resident’s interests at the forefront. Motion 3 Submitted by Councillors David Dean, Samantha George and David Simpson This Council recognises the crucial role that both central and local government can play in tackling climate change and therefore welcomes the various actions this administration has taken in recent years to cut the borough’s CO2 emissions, which include:

• Achieving a 22% reduction in emissions from the Civic Centre in Morden, equating to over 450 tonnes of CO2. • Employing a full-time energy and sustainability manager and conducting a comprehensive programme of environmental audits for council buildings. • Introducing energy saving projects across all council buildings in Merton such as improved insulation, more efficient lights, time controls for heating and electrical items and equipment reducing the voltage of electricity supplied to buildings, so saving a total of more than 1,900 tonnes of CO2 and over £285,000 since 2005; • Implementing the borough’s first ever Climate Change Strategy. • Making it as easy as possible for residents to recycle – and thereby increasing recycling rates to over 33% - through initiatives such as the introduction of mixed recycling collection for houses and communal recycling bins in blocks of 10 or more flats; providing new dual litter and recycling bins in Mitcham town centre; offering free Christmas tree collection as well as recycling and replanting of Christmas trees; a waste education programme in the our schools; recycling roadshows around the borough; and rolling out a food waste collection scheme to 10,000 Merton households.

www.merton.gov.uk • Encouraging more residents to walk and cycle through initiatives such as school travel plans; rolling out 20’s Plenty schemes in many of our residential streets; opening the borough’s first Homezone in Figge’s Marsh; investing over £250,000 over the last two years in Merton's existing cycle network; and securing one of the capital’s first two Cycle Superhighways. • Promoting sustainable forms of public transport, not least through the opening of a new station at Mitcham Eastfields – the first new suburban train station in south London since World War II – in the space of only 22 months. • Extending the Merton Rule to include all new developments and developing an innovative monitoring system to measure how much renewable energy is being generated.

This Council also understands the need for government to set an example for others to follow when it comes to tackling climate change, as demonstrated by George Osborne MP’s recent commitment that a Conservative government will ‘cut central government emissions by ten per cent within twelve months’.

This Council therefore welcomes the current administration’s clear commitment - illustrated by the Cabinet signing up to the national 10:10 campaign at its meeting on 9 November 2009- to reduce Merton council’s carbon emissions by 10% during 2010 through a range of actions including:

• Upgrading the council’s fleet of vehicles with more efficient engines, which are able to run on biodiesel made using vegetable oil rather than unsustainable fossil fuel; • Making the borough’s street lighting more energy efficient; • Investigating the installation of a Combined Cooling Heat and Power (CCHP) system in the Civic Centre, which could supply the building with electricity, cooling water and heat and save over 200 tonnes of CO2 every year. • Developing one of the capital’s 10 new Low Carbon Zones in a less affluent part of the borough and investing over £275,000 from the Mayor of London to facilitate home improvements, deliver lower energy bills and create employment opportunities, through initiatives such as an apprenticeship scheme for residents to become "energy doctors”; opportunities to generate energy from waste to heat homes and community buildings; and workshops and roadshows on energy, sustainable transport and waste reduction. • Encouraging more cyclists in Merton using additional support secured from the Mayor of London’s Biking Boroughs scheme.

This Council further resolves to redouble its efforts to build on its reputation as a low carbon borough, by continuing to work closely together with local residents, schools, community groups and businesses to make Merton more energy efficient and environmentally sustainable for the future and at the same time helping stimulate the local economy and create job opportunities

www.merton.gov.uk during this time of economic recession. Motion 4 Submitted by Councillors Henry Nelless, Samantha George, Marc Hanson, Tariq Ahmad This Council notes that Wednesday 27 January 2010 marked the 65th anniversary of the liberation of the largest Nazi concentration camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau, and it affirms the various events that took place across the borough to mark this year's Holocaust Memorial Day.

This Council recognises the importance of Holocaust Memorial Day both in remembering the victims and survivors of Nazi persecution during the Holocaust, and those affected by subsequent genocides around the world, and in bringing together all sections of our community to learn the lessons of the past and commit to building a better future.

This Council therefore resolves to continue challenging all forms of discrimination, persecution and racism so as to ensure atrocities such as the Holocaust can never happen again.

9. Calendar of Meetings 117 10. Constitution of Committees and Related Matters 123 11. Petitions (1) To receive petitions (if any) (Part 4A, paragraph 18.1 of the Council’s Constitution); and (2) Council is asked to note the advice provided on those petitions presented to the 25 November Council:

Councillor Diane Neil Mills presented a petition on behalf of the PPC for Mitcham and Morden, Melanie Hampton, opposing the SITA planning application in Mitcham.

In particular, a petition of 535 signatures was received from Melanie Hampton on the 16 November 2009. The petition was in objection to the current planning application (ref 08/p2724) for the redevelopment of the existing waste treatment works operated by SITA at Benedict Wharf Mitcham. The petition has been registered, formally acknowledged and will be reported to members of the planning committee when this case is considered.

Councillor Henry Nelless presented a petition on behalf of 160 residents living in the vicinity of Kingston Road in Abbey Ward making representations against 29 Kingston Road being converted into a 24-hour taxi-cab office.

In addition, a petition of 160 signatures in relation to change of use from management office to mini cab control office, 29 Kingston Road, Planning Ref 09/P2386 was received on 30 Nov 2009 and logged and acknowledged on 1st December 2009. It will be reported to members of the planning

www.merton.gov.uk committee when this case is considered, unless officers are minded to refuse, in which case the application will be determined under delegated powers.

Councillor Chris Edge presented a petition on behalf of 75% of residents in Toynbee Road requesting a CPZ.

Officers recommendations in respect of this matter have been lodged with the Cabinet Member Councillor William Brierly together with all the representations received including those from the petition.

12. Business for the next Ordinary Meeting -

Note1: Declarations of interest

Councillors and co-opted members who have a personal or prejudicial interest in relation to any item on this agenda are asked to complete a declaration form and hand it to the Democratic Services Officer. Forms, together with a summary of guidance on making declarations of interest, will be available around the meeting table. If further clarification is needed members are advised to refer to “The Code of Conduct – Guide for members May 2007” issued by Standards for England, which will be available at the meeting if needed.

www.merton.gov.uk COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 (7.15pm – 10.20pm) PRESENT: The Mayor, Councillor Nick Draper The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Karin Forbes Councillors Agatha Akyigyina, Stephen Alambritis, Mark Allison, Mark Betteridge, John Bowcott, Margaret Brierly, William Brierly, Jeremy Bruce, Angela Caldara, Richard Chellew, David Chung, David Dean, John Dehaney, Chris Edge, Corinna Edge, Samantha George, Maurice Groves, Marc Hanson, Philip Jones, Andrew Judge, Stephen Kerin, Linda Kirby, Sheila Knight, Patricia Lewis, Brian Lewis- Lavender, Gilli Lewis-Lavender, Edith Macauley, Russell Makin, Barbara Mansfield, Denise March, Maxi Martin, Peter McCabe, Krystal Miller, Oonagh Moulton, Ian Munn, Diane Neil Mills, Henry Nelless, Dennis Pearce, George Reynolds, Judy Saunders, Linda Scott, Rod Scott, Deborah Shears, David Simpson, Zenia Squires-Jamison, Peter Southgate, Geraldine Stanford, Gregory Udeh, Leighton Veale, Jonathan Warne, Martin Whelton, David Williams, Krysia Williams Richard Williams, Ronald Wilson and Simon Withey Apologies for absence were received from: Councillors Tariq Ahmad and Steve Austin; and for lateness from Councillor Krystal Miller EXTENSION OF MEETING Pursuant to Paragraph 7(m) of Part 4A of the Council’s constitution, Council agreed the extension of the meeting beyond three hours in duration should this become necessary. 1 DECLARATIONS Declarations of Interest were notified as follows: Agenda Item 9 Councillors Samantha George and Margaret Brierly on the basis of their being governors of Raynes Park High School. Councillors Karin Forbes and Simon Withey on the basis if their being governors of Rutlish School. Councillor Dennis Pearce and Maxi Martin on the basis of their being governors of Bishopsford Community School. Councillors Henry Nelless, Maurice Groves, Judy Saunders and Krysia Williams on the basis of their being members of Priory Homes Shadow Board. 2 MINUTES (Agenda Item 3) RESOLVED: That the Minutes of the meeting held on 16 September are agreed as a correct record. 3 TO RECEIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE MAYOR, LEADER OF THE

7 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 COUNCIL AND THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE (Agenda Item 4) As part of his announcements the Mayor made a number of presentations: Award to Merton Compact; Family Information Service – Matrix Quality Standard for Information Advice; and Safer Merton partnership – 2009 Regional Winner for ‘Tout and You’re Out. Neither the Leader or the Chief Executive made any announcements. 4 QUESTIONS FROM COUNCILLORS (Agenda Item 5) Pursuant to Paragraph 19.1 of Part 4A of the Constitution, Council agreed that Paragraph 12.7 of Part 4A of the Constitution is suspended in part so as to reduce the time for the taking of questions from 15minutes to 10 minutes. The questions and answers together with supplementary questions and answers may be found at Appendix 1 to these minutes. 5 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE REVIEW – CORPORATE CAPACITY (Agenda Item 6) The questions and answers together with supplementary questions and answers relating to the Strategic Objective may be found at Appendix 2 to these minutes. Councillor Samantha George introduced the report. Motion 1 (Labour) It was moved by Councillor Mark Betteridge and seconded by Councillor Richard Williams that This council notes that the Cabinet Meeting of 10 November 2008 approved spending of £305,850 to engage Deloitte Consultants to start work on the “Transformation” project. This Council also notes the Chief Executive’s decision, under delegated powers, on 9 October, to spend up to £383,173 to engage Methods Consulting (who intend in turn to sub-contract the work to Ad Esse Consulting) to carry out further work on the “Transformation” project. Council notes that the daily rate for the most senior of these consultants is up to £2,000 a day. This council believes that expenditure of this magnitude, without any guarantee on savings to the people of Merton, is both wasteful and an insult to hard pressed Council Tax payers. This council therefore resolves to suspend the Transformation Project whilst an urgent review of the value of this work is undertaken and guarantees secured on the amount of money to be saved for Merton residents. Conservative Amendment It was moved by Councillor Samantha George and seconded by Councillor David Williams that Motion 1 is amended to read: This council notes that the Cabinet Meeting of 10 November 2008 approved spending of £305,850 to engage Deloitte Consultants to start work on the “Transformation” project. This Council also notes the Chief Executive’s decision,

8 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 under delegated powers, on 9 October, to spend up to £383,173 to engage Methods Consulting (who intend in turn to sub-contract the work to Ad Esse Consulting) to carry out further work on the “Transformation” project. Council notes that the daily rate for the most senior of these consultants is up to £2,000 a day. This council believes it is important that expenditure of this magnitude offers value for money to Merton’s hard pressed Council Tax payers, and welcomes the savings already delivered by Deloitte in excess of £900,000. This council therefore resolves that to suspend the Transformation Project whilst an urgent review of the value of this work is undertaken is inconsistent with the achievements recorded to date. The Mayor put the amendment to the meeting and it was carried on a vote of 30 for the amendment, 25 against the amendment and 1 not voting. The Mayor put the substantive motion to the meeting and it was RESOLVED: That This council notes that the Cabinet Meeting of 10 November 2008 approved spending of £305,850 to engage Deloitte Consultants to start work on the “Transformation” project. This Council also notes the Chief Executive’s decision, under delegated powers, on 9 October, to spend up to £383,173 to engage Methods Consulting (who intend in turn to sub-contract the work to Ad Esse Consulting) to carry out further work on the “Transformation” project. Council notes that the daily rate for the most senior of these consultants is up to £2,000 a day. This council believes it is important that expenditure of this magnitude offers value for money to Merton’s hard pressed Council Tax payers, and welcomes the savings already delivered by Deloitte in excess of £900,000. This council therefore resolves that to suspend the Transformation Project whilst an urgent review of the value of this work is undertaken is inconsistent with the achievements recorded to date. Motion 2 (Labour) It was moved by Councillor Sheila Knight and seconded by Councillor David Chung that This Council welcomes the council’s draft Equality Scheme and the government’s new Equality Bill. However, this Council is concerned that the social model of disability, which was adopted by Merton in 2002 and reiterated in the 2006 Scrutiny report into Merton as an employer of Disabled People, has not yet resulted in the report’s aim of “a culture change across Merton to embrace the skills and abilities of disabled people and ensure our environment is disability friendly.” Most worryingly, wheelchair users are still unable to park their cars in the Civic Centre car park due to the inadequate size of the parking bays. This council acknowledges that the current situation whereby wheelchair users can ask security staff for assistance is not acceptable and deprives disabled people of their dignity and independence.

9 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 This Council therefore resolves to take renewed steps to ensure that the social model of disability is embedded into the culture of Merton and is covered in all training offered to staff, from the Chief Executive downwards, including induction and all management training. We will also ensure all managers and staff have clear understanding of “reasonable adjustment” within the meaning of the Disability Discrimination Act and its application not just to premises but also to any provisions, criteria or practices of the council. This Council further resolves to immediately take steps to ensure the Civic Centre car park has disabled car parking bays that support the independence of disabled people. Conservative Amendment It was moved by Councillor Henry Nelless and seconded by Councillor Margaret Brierly that Motion 2 is amended to read: This Council welcomes the council’s draft Equality Scheme and notes the progress that has already been made by the Council in this area. This Council further notes that its draft Corporate Equality Scheme restates its commitment to the social model of disability, which was adopted by Merton in 2002 and reiterated in the 2006 Scrutiny report into Merton as an employer of Disabled People, with the aim of ensuring “a culture change across Merton to embrace the skills and abilities of disabled people and ensure our environment is disability friendly.” This Council recognises that some wheelchair users are unable to park their cars in the Civic Centre car park due to the inadequate parking of other drivers between the parking bays which prevents them exiting their vehicle and accessing their wheelchair, and acknowledges that the current situation whereby other people’s parking requires wheelchair users to ask security staff for assistance, for example in moving other people’s cars, is not acceptable and deprives disabled people of their dignity and independence. This Council is therefore pleased that work is already being commissioned on the provision of parking bays that adhere to the latest standards in design for disabled car parking spaces, and notes that officers have now finalised the design of, and obtained quotes for, new spaces to be located close to the disabled entrance to the Civic Centre. As per Action 8 in the draft Corporate Equality Scheme, this Council resolves to take renewed steps to ensure that the social model of disability is embedded into the culture of Merton and is covered in all training offered to staff, from the Chief Executive downwards, including induction and all management training. We will also ensure all managers and staff have clear understanding of “reasonable adjustment” within the meaning of the Disability Discrimination Act and its application not just to premises but also to any provisions, criteria or practices of the council. This Council further resolves to continue taking steps to ensure the Civic Centre car park has disabled car parking bays that support the independence of disabled people and looks forward to this being delivered early in 2010. The Mayor put the amendment to the meeting and it was carried on a vote of 31 for

10 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 the amendment, 24 against the amendment and 1 not voting. The Mayor put the substantive motion to the meeting and it was RESOLVED: That This Council welcomes the council’s draft Equality Scheme and notes the progress that has already been made by the Council in this area. This Council further notes that its draft Corporate Equality Scheme restates its commitment to the social model of disability, which was adopted by Merton in 2002 and reiterated in the 2006 Scrutiny report into Merton as an employer of Disabled People, with the aim of ensuring “a culture change across Merton to embrace the skills and abilities of disabled people and ensure our environment is disability friendly.” This Council recognises that some wheelchair users are unable to park their cars in the Civic Centre car park due to the inadequate parking of other drivers between the parking bays which prevents them exiting their vehicle and accessing their wheelchair, and acknowledges that the current situation whereby other people’s parking requires wheelchair users to ask security staff for assistance, for example in moving other people’s cars, is not acceptable and deprives disabled people of their dignity and independence. This Council is therefore pleased that work is already being commissioned on the provision of parking bays that adhere to the latest standards in design for disabled car parking spaces, and notes that officers have now finalised the design of, and obtained quotes for, new spaces to be located close to the disabled entrance to the Civic Centre. As per Action 8 in the draft Corporate Equality Scheme, this Council resolves to take renewed steps to ensure that the social model of disability is embedded into the culture of Merton and is covered in all training offered to staff, from the Chief Executive downwards, including induction and all management training. We will also ensure all managers and staff have clear understanding of “reasonable adjustment” within the meaning of the Disability Discrimination Act and its application not just to premises but also to any provisions, criteria or practices of the council. This Council further resolves to continue taking steps to ensure the Civic Centre car park has disabled car parking bays that support the independence of disabled people and looks forward to this being delivered early in 2010. Motion 3 (Conservative) It was moved by Councillor Diane Neil Mills and seconded by Councillor Oonagh Moulton that This Council notes that the present Administration has worked hard to identify and deliver efficiency savings, including those delivered through the transformation programme, so enabling council tax rates to be kept down. This Council therefore welcomes the commitment of a future Conservative government in its first two full years in office to limit council tax rises to zero for those councils in England who are able to keep their council tax increase to 2.5% or below, by Government providing sufficient additional resources for this purpose. Council recognises that this would mean Merton council being able to offer residents and

11 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 taxpayers no increase in council tax for two years in a row. The Mayor put the motion to the meeting and it was carried on a vote of 29 for the motion, 25 against the motion and 4 not voting RESOLVED: That This Council notes that the present Administration has worked hard to identify and deliver efficiency savings, including those delivered through the transformation programme, so enabling council tax rates to be kept down. This Council therefore welcomes the commitment of a future Conservative government in its first two full years in office to limit council tax rises to zero for those councils in England who are able to keep their council tax increase to 2.5% or below, by Government providing sufficient additional resources for this purpose. Council recognises that this would mean Merton council being able to offer residents and taxpayers no increase in council tax for two years in a row. 6 REPORTS OF COMMUNITY FORUMS (Agenda Item 7) Reports received. 7 NOTICES OF MOTION (Agenda Item 8) Motion 1 (Conservative) It was moved by Councillor William Brierly and seconded by Councillor David Williams that This Council fully supports the Freedom Pass, which offers free travel for Merton’s older and disabled residents on London's buses, trains, trams and the underground. It welcomes the recent extension in the benefits offered by the Freedom Pass to enable residents aged 60 and over to use Transport for London services free of charge 24 hours a day, every day of the week. This Council notes that: • London’s Freedom Pass scheme is generally accepted to be the best concessionary fares scheme in the country, in terms of scope, benefits offered and quality of transport provided. • The total cost of the capital's concessionary fares scheme is borne by the London boroughs, with Merton contributing £4.5million in this financial year (2009/10). • Under a three year package announced by central government in 2008, London was set to receive around £58million in 2010/2011 to help cover part of the total cost of the capital’s concessionary fares scheme. This Council is therefore extremely concerned and angry at the Labour government’s recent announcement that it is to reopen the previously agreed funding settlement for 2010/11 and that ministers propose to cut the grant for London by almost half, noting that: • This would mean around £600,000 of funding already agreed for the provision of free travel for Merton’s over-60s and disabled residents being diverted away

12 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 from the borough to other parts of the country next year; • Unlike in London, concessionary fares schemes outside the capital are generally fully funded by government grant; • Merton already receives one of the worst levels of overall funding in London from central government; • The Council is currently undergoing a challenging budget process requiring savings of £14million to set a balanced budget for 2010/11, which will be made even more difficult by government U-turns of this kind on previously agreed funding commitments. Recognising how highly the Freedom Pass is valued by many elderly and disabled people in Merton, this Council therefore condemns the decision by Labour Transport Minister, Sadiq Khan MP, at this late stage to alter the funding deal already agreed. Furthermore, it resolves to continue working with other London boroughs through London Councils in seeking to persuade the Labour government that it would not be in the interests of the residents and council taxpayers of Merton to transfer these grant monies away from the borough, in clear breach of commitments previously made. The Mayor put the motion to the meeting and it was carried on a vote of 32 for the motion, 25 against the motion and 1 not voting. RESOLVED: That This Council fully supports the Freedom Pass, which offers free travel for Merton’s older and disabled residents on London's buses, trains, trams and the underground. It welcomes the recent extension in the benefits offered by the Freedom Pass to enable residents aged 60 and over to use Transport for London services free of charge 24 hours a day, every day of the week. This Council notes that: • London’s Freedom Pass scheme is generally accepted to be the best concessionary fares scheme in the country, in terms of scope, benefits offered and quality of transport provided. • The total cost of the capital's concessionary fares scheme is borne by the London boroughs, with Merton contributing £4.5million in this financial year (2009/10). • Under a three year package announced by central government in 2008, London was set to receive around £58million in 2010/2011 to help cover part of the total cost of the capital’s concessionary fares scheme. This Council is therefore extremely concerned and angry at the Labour government’s recent announcement that it is to reopen the previously agreed funding settlement for 2010/11 and that ministers propose to cut the grant for London by almost half, noting that: • This would mean around £600,000 of funding already agreed for the provision of free travel for Merton’s over-60s and disabled residents being diverted away

13 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 from the borough to other parts of the country next year; • Unlike in London, concessionary fares schemes outside the capital are generally fully funded by government grant; • Merton already receives one of the worst levels of overall funding in London from central government; • The Council is currently undergoing a challenging budget process requiring savings of £14million to set a balanced budget for 2010/11, which will be made even more difficult by government U-turns of this kind on previously agreed funding commitments. Recognising how highly the Freedom Pass is valued by many elderly and disabled people in Merton, this Council therefore condemns the decision by Labour Transport Minister, Sadiq Khan MP, at this late stage to alter the funding deal already agreed. Furthermore, it resolves to continue working with other London boroughs through London Councils in seeking to persuade the Labour government that it would not be in the interests of the residents and council taxpayers of Merton to transfer these grant monies away from the borough, in clear breach of commitments previously made. Motion 2 (Conservative) It was moved by Councillor Samantha George and seconded by Councillor Diane Neil Mills that This Council notes with concern plans for council tax rebanding contained in the document ‘Putting Fairness First: Local Labour’s manifesto for a new term’, which states on page 19 that ‘at the very least, the council tax needs rebanding’ and proposes the addition of more bands at the top of the council tax scale. This Council further notes that this document was published recently by the Local Government Association Labour Group, to which Merton’s Labour councillors belong, and lists policies it would like included in Labour's manifesto for the forthcoming general election. This Council strongly regrets that Labour councillors with this publication are pushing for the right to increase council tax on the homes of many Merton residents, and fears that higher council tax bands will be used to punish hard working families and pensioners in Merton who have saved and invested in their homes. This Council therefore resolves to oppose these controversial and costly plans for a nationwide council tax revaluation, as set out in ‘Putting Fairness First: Local Labour’s manifesto for a new term. Amendment (Labour) It was moved by Councillor Stephen Alambritis and seconded by Councillor Mark Betteridge that the motion is amended to read: This Council notes that Merton’s Council Tax charge has increased by 10% since May 2006; agrees that this is too high; regrets that Conservative Councillors have turned down Labour’s proposal of a one-off £100 rebate for every Council Tax-paying household in Merton; and welcomes any contribution to the debate about how to

14 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 decrease Council Tax for the majority of households in the Borough. This Council further notes proposals for council tax rebanding contained in the document ‘Putting Fairness First: Local Labour’s manifesto for a new term’ which states on page 19 that ‘at the very least, the council tax needs rebanding’ and proposes the addition of more bands at the bottom and top of the council tax scale so that it is a fairer, more progressive tax and so that the majority of Council Tax payers are charged less in Council Tax in the future. This Council further notes that this document was published recently by the Local Government Association Labour Group, to which Merton’s Labour councillors belong; recognises that this is a discussion document and, despite attempts by Merton’s Conservatives to misrepresent them, not agreed policy for Merton’s Labour councillors; believes it is an interesting contribution to the debate about how to reduce Council Tax for the majority of households; and resolves to respond to its calls for Council Tax cuts for the majority by introducing a zero percent increase in Council Tax, or a reduction, in March 2010. This Council strongly regrets increases since 2006 in council tax on the homes of Merton residents, and will do all in its powers to ensure it does not further punish hard working families and pensioners in Merton who have saved and invested in their homes.

Point of Order Councillor David Williams sought the advice of the council’s Head of Civic and Legal Services as to whether the Labour amendment was in effect a different motion and, therefore, served to negative the motion. The Head of Civic and Legal Services confirmed that the amendment does not negative the original motion. The Mayor put the amendment to the meeting and a roll call was requested with the following result: Voting for the amendment 25: Councillors Agatha Akyigyina, Stephen Alambritis, Mark Allison, Mark Betteridge, David Chung, John Dehaney, Philip Jones, Andrew Judge, Linda Kirby, Sheila Knight, Patricia Lewis, Edith Macauley, Russell Makin, Maxi Martin, Peter McCabe, Ian Munn, Dennis Pearce, George Reynolds, Judy Saunders, Zenia Squires- Jamison, Geraldine Stanford, Gregory Udeh, Leighton Veale, Martin Whelton and Richard Williams. Voting against the amendment 32: Councillors John Bowcott, Margaret Brierly, William Brierly, Jeremy Bruce, Angela Caldara, Richard Chellew, David Dean, Chris Edge, Corinna Edge, Karin Forbes, Samantha George, Maurice Groves, Marc Hanson, Stephen Kerin, Brian Lewis- Lavender, Gilli Lewis-Lavender, Barbara Mansfield, Denise March, Krystal Miller, Oonagh Moulton, Diane Neil Mills, Henry Nelless, Linda Scott, Rod Scott, Deborah Shears, David Simpson, Peter Southgate, Jonathan Warne, David Williams, Krysia

15 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 Williams, Ronald Wilson and Simon Withey Not Voting 1: The Mayor, Councillor Nick Draper. The Mayor declared the amendment to be lost. The Mayor put the original motion to the meeting and a roll call was requested with the following result: Voting for the motion 29: Councillors John Bowcott, Margaret Brierly, William Brierly, Jeremy Bruce, Angela Caldara, Richard Chellew, David Dean, Chris Edge, Corinna Edge, Samantha George, Maurice Groves, Marc Hanson, Stephen Kerin, Brian Lewis-Lavender, Gilli Lewis-Lavender, Barbara Mansfield, Denise March, Krystal Miller, Oonagh Moulton, Diane Neil Mills, Henry Nelless, Linda Scott, Rod Scott, Deborah Shears, David Simpson, Jonathan Warne, David Williams, Ronald Wilson and Simon Withey Voting against the motion 29: Councillors Agatha Akyigyina, Stephen Alambritis, Mark Allison, Mark Betteridge, David Chung, John Dehaney, Nick Draper, Karin Forbes, Philip Jones, Andrew Judge, Linda Kirby, Sheila Knight, Patricia Lewis, Edith Macauley, Russell Makin, Maxi Martin, Peter McCabe, Ian Munn, Dennis Pearce, George Reynolds, Judy Saunders, Zenia Squires-Jamison, Peter Southgate, Geraldine Stanford, Gregory Udeh, Leighton Veale, Martin Whelton, Krysia Williams, and Richard Williams. There being an equality of votes the Mayor used his casting vote and voted against the motion. The Mayor declared the motion to be lost. Motion 3 (Labour) It was moved by Councillor Stephen Alambritis and seconded by Councillor Agatha Akyigyina that This Council resolves to offer a wheeled bin waste collection and recycling service to all households in Merton. The Mayor put the motion to the meeting and a roll call was requested with the following result: Voting for the motion 25: Councillors Agatha Akyigyina, Stephen Alambritis, Mark Allison, Mark Betteridge, David Chung, John Dehaney, Philip Jones, Andrew Judge, Linda Kirby, Sheila Knight, Patricia Lewis, Edith Macauley, Russell Makin, Maxi Martin, Peter McCabe, Ian Munn, Dennis Pearce, George Reynolds, Judy Saunders, Zenia Squires- Jamison, Geraldine Stanford, Gregory Udeh, Leighton Veale, Martin Whelton and Richard Williams. Voting against the motion 32: Councillors John Bowcott, Margaret Brierly, William Brierly, Jeremy Bruce, Angela Caldara, Richard Chellew, David Dean, Chris Edge, Corinna Edge, Karin Forbes, Samantha George, Maurice Groves, Marc Hanson, Stephen Kerin, Brian Lewis-

16 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 Lavender, Gilli Lewis-Lavender, Barbara Mansfield, Denise March, Krystal Miller, Oonagh Moulton, Diane Neil Mills, Henry Nelless, Linda Scott, Rod Scott, Deborah Shears, David Simpson, Peter Southgate, Jonathan Warne, David Williams, Krysia Williams, Ronald Wilson and Simon Withey. Not Voting 1: The Mayor, Councillor Nick Draper. The Mayor declared the motion to be lost. 8 CALL-IN AND URGENCY – CONTRACT FOR 6TH FORM BUILDINGS AT BISHOPSFORD, RAYNES PARK, RICARDS LODGE AND RUTLISH HIGH SCHOOLS (Agenda Item 9) The recommendation detailed in the submitted was moved by Councillor David Williams and seconded by Councillor Debbie Shears. The Mayor put the recommendation to the meeting and it was RESOLVED: That the taking of an urgent key decision to award a contract to construct the sixth form buildings at Bishopsford, Raynes Park, Ricards Lodge and Rutlish High Schools in accordance with the provisions of Part 4 E, section 17 of the Council’s constitution is noted. 9 HOUSING STOCK TRANSFER – APPROVAL TO MAKE APPLICATION TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOR CONSENT TO TRANSFER (Agenda Item 10) In accordance with their declarations of interest, Councillors Henry Nelless, Maurice Groves, Judy Saunders and Krysia Williams left the Council Chamber during consideration of this matter. The recommendation detailed in the submitted report was moved by Councillor Linda Scott and seconded by Councillor Diane Neil Mills. The Mayor put the recommendation to the meeting and it was RESOLVED: That the recommendation of Cabinet is noted and that approval is given for the Director of Community and Housing to make application to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government for consent to transfer. 10 CORPORATE EQUALITY SCHEME AND ACTION PLAN 2010-2013 (Agenda Item 11) The recommendation detailed in the submitted report was moved by Councillor Henry Nelless and seconded by Councillor David Simpson. The Mayor put the recommendation to the meeting and it was RESOLVED: That the Corporate Equality Scheme and Action Plan 2009-2013 is adopted. 11 THE GAMBLING POLICY REVIEW (Agenda Item 12) The recommendation detailed in the submitted report was moved by Councillor David Simpson and seconded by Councillor Oonagh Moulton.

17 COUNCIL 25 NOVEMBER 2009 The Mayor put the recommendation to the meeting and it was RESOLVED: That the Gambling Policy previously adopted by the Licensing Committee, is adopted. 12 CHANGES TO MEMBERSHIP OF COMMITTEES AND RELATED MATTERS (Agenda Item 13) The recommendation detailed in the submitted report was moved by Councillor Richard Chellew and seconded by Councillor David Williams. The Mayor put the recommendation to the meeting and it was RESOLVED: That A. Councillor Rod Scott is appointed as a member of the Corporate Capacity Overview and Scrutiny Panel; B. Councillors Henry Nelless and Rod Scott are appointed as members of the Standards Committee; and C. the changes to membership of Committees approved under delegated powers since the last meeting of the Council are noted. 13 PETITIONS (Agenda Item 14) Council received the following petitions: Councillor Henry Nelless presented a petition on behalf of 160 residents living in the vicinity of Kingston Road in Abbey Ward making representations against 29 Kingston Road being converted into a 24 hour taxi cab office. Councillor Chris Edge presented a petition on behalf of 75% of residents in Toynbee Road requesting a CPZ. Councillor Diane Neil Mills presented a petition on behalf the PPC for Mitcham and Morden, Melanie Hampton, and presentation a petition opposing the SITA planning application in Mitcham. 14 BUSINESS FOR THE NEXT ORDINARY MEETING (Agenda Item 15) Council agreed ‘Sustainable Communities with emphasis on the Street Scene’ as being the Strategic Objective review to be considered at the 3 February Council meeting.

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18 APPENDIX ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING – WEDNESDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2009 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (ITEMS 5 AND 6) ITEM 5

1 From Councillor Peter Southgate to the Cabinet member for Planning and Traffic Management “Since October 2008 the installation of areas of hard standing (for car parking) measuring 5m2 or more has required planning permission, unless the surface is porous to allow natural drainage. What measures is the council taking to ensure householders comply with this requirement?” Reply “Class F of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Amendment) (no.2) (England) Order 2008 gives permitted development rights for the provision of a hard surface in the front gardens of dwelling houses. If over 5m2 there is a condition which states: "Either the hard surface shall be made of porous materials, or provision shall be made to direct run-off water from the hard surface to a permeable or porous area or surface within the curtilage of the dwelling house" The permeable or porous area used for most paved surfaces is commonly the adjoining lawn or borders. Alternatively, the paved area itself may be made of a porous material. If there are any reports of new hard surfaces being implemented without complying with the above criteria, the enforcement team will investigate and initiate enforcement action accordingly. Officers have also been tasked with pro- actively investigating any new driveways they see on their day to day site visits to ensure those installed comply with the regulations. In addition, the planning application web page has a link to the Planning Portal's interactive house which sets out the new rules on hard surfaces. It could be argued that the new regulations did not go far enough in insisting that new front driveways required planning permission in order to prevent loss of landscaping.” Supplementary “I am grateful for this answer and for the indication that we seem to be very much of a mind on this. I’m wondering whether the contractors who install these hard standings could be advised that there are circumstances under which they should seek sight of planning permission before they start work. It’s always easier to deal with matters in advance rather than after the event via enforcement.” Reply “I think what you’re asking is that we clarify within the applications what the criteria is, and certainly I’m happy to ask officers to ensure that this is the case.”

19 2 From Councillor Rod Scott to the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services “Can the cabinet member tell me if she is supportive of the Conservatives’ policy of extending the academy programme to include primary schools?” Reply “The administration would consider a range of models of school organisation if they were likely to improve outcomes for children and young people. A primary academy would certainly be considered under the right circumstances.” Supplementary “Is the Cabinet Member exploring the idea of any future primary Academies within Merton now, in anticipation of a Conservative government?” Reply “We will explore any option that leads to school improvement and raising standards for our pupils. Just to make sure that all members in the chamber are aware, we are in early negotiations and discussions with Harris Academy for William Morris Primary School to become part of Harris Academy and to become a 4 –19 school. That obviously is subject to consultation.” 3 From Councillor Stephen Alambritis to the Leader of the Council “Will the Leader tell us all how much the Local Dialogue exercise cost the council taxpayer to arrive at a decision to say no to Goals when residents had been saying no to such an abuse of all along?” Reply “The decision to tender site A for lease, followed on from a decision of the previous Administration - of which Cllr Alambritis was part - to lease the whole of the playing fields. The intent was supported on a cross party basis and the outcome was called in and passed by Scrutiny as being a proper legal process. To unwind the decision, in response to residents' concerns, Cabinet needed a proper process to inform its decision taking. The Morden Park Visioning exercise was commissioned to determine guidance on the future uses of the park from a wide cross section of the local community and to explore a range of different issues. The full and summary reports are available on the council's website and these will be used to inform us of future developments in the park. The cost of this exercise was £22k.” Reply “Has the Leader told Goals to get over it?” Supplementary “You’ve asked another similar question and you will know that there were was very specific legal advice given to the Cabinet on confidential papers regarding the decision, and if you haven’t read them then you ought to and you will get the answer.”

4 From Councillor Gilli Lewis-Lavender to the Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Engagement

20 “I'm pleased to see the Council's web page inviting Merton residents to send in ideas for consideration under the Sustainable Communities Act once the government has announced its timescale for the next round of submissions by local authorities. Can the Cabinet member therefore outline the role that Local Spending Reports are intended to play in guiding the development of proposals under the Act and would he agree it is important to have clear information from the government on how all public money is being spent in Merton for this purpose?” Reply “The Sustainable Communities Act 2007 gives an opportunity for councils and communities to put forward new thinking on how to meet the challenges of sustainability and local wellbeing. It starts from the principle that local people know best what needs to be done to promote the sustainability of their area, but that sometimes they need central government to act to enable them to do so. Under the Act local communities and councils can ask government to take some action, if they believe that will make a difference to the local community, for example changing legislation, transferring responsibilities from one public body to another, or strengthening national policy. As colleagues will recall, in July this Council committed to use the Act when deadlines for subsequent rounds are announced. Local Spending Reports are intended to be a key tool in guiding the development of proposals under the Sustainable Communities Act. However, the Local Spending Reports currently available only give part of the picture in terms of public spending in a local authority area – much of which is readily available. What is lacking is a comprehensive analysis of all public spending within the local authority area. Including details of spending by all public agencies in Local Spending Reports would greatly assist local people and public agencies in Merton to assess how public money is spent in the borough and determine whether it could be better targeted so that we can tackle issues of local concern. It may be of interest that the Total Place pilots, sponsored by DCLG have been able to identify the full level of public expenditure in local areas. The early indications from the pilot areas is that local councils may only control around 5% of the public funding in their area. On Wednesday 28 October 2009 Parliament debated and voted on an Early Day Motion regarding the information included in published Local Spending Reports. The motion, which had cross-party support, sought to ensure that Local Spending Reports incorporate details of all public money spent in a local authority area, not just that spent by local authorities, fire authorities, police authorities, and primary care trusts as is currently the case. Keen to see this positive step take place, I wrote to our local Members of Parliament urging them to support this motion and vote in favour of expanding Local Spending Reports in this way. Unfortunately, on the day the motion was lost, however we will continue to lobby for improvements to the information made available to local people and councils through Local Spending Reports so that we can work together to ensure that public spending in Merton is targeted in the best way to meet the needs of local people. The council’s webpage relating to the Sustainable Communities Act is sited at the following address: http://www.merton.gov.uk/council/getinvolved/sustainablecommunitiesact.htm” Supplementary “I am pleased to see that the council has been lobbying our local MPs on the need

21 for local comprehensive spending reports. Can the Cabinet Member tell me whether the MPs supported our calls for clear information from the Government on how all public is being spent in Merton?” Reply “I would just say that the motion was cross-party and signed by members from all the main parties. I am pleased to say that MP for Wimbledon did support the motion. Unfortunately the MP for Mitcham and Morden did not.”

5 From Councillor Dennis Pearce to the Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Engagement “Could the Cabinet member comment on whether he feels it is satisfactory that after the end of this month we will only have one full time officer and one part time officer to cover five Scrutiny panels? Does he accept that this will affect our capability to scrutinise council decision?” Reply “The Scrutiny Team is made up of one manager and three officers. One of these posts is currently vacant (and has been held vacant since the beginning of October due to the council-wide freeze on recruiting at this time) and another post is filled part time. Councillor Pearce refers to the fact that the full-time scrutiny officer has been appointed to a 12-month secondment in the LEAN team that is currently being established to carry forward the implementation of the Transformation project in the council. This is a very good development opportunity for the officer concerned and will enable the skills she possesses to strengthen the LEAN team. In establishing the LEAN team, provision has been made to enable backfilling of the posts that secondees are released from. We are therefore currently in the process of offering the scrutiny officer's position as a secondment. Clearly, we are anxious that any disruption to service provision and support to scrutiny members is kept to a minimum, and as such we anticipate that the replacement should be in post by the beginning of January. We will be looking to appoint someone with the skill set that members value from their scrutiny support staff – namely policy development, research and analysis – to ensure that the same standard of support that members currently receive is maintained. In the meantime, the member of staff has extended annual leave booked for the month of December. As this leave has been planned for a number of months, provision has already been made to ensure that scrutiny members are supported throughout this time. With this in mind, I am confident that the Scrutiny Manager and the part-time Scrutiny Officer will be able to support scrutiny members to fulfil their critical friend role throughout December, with a replacement for the full time Scrutiny Officer in post in January.” Supplementary “I would like to thank the Cabinet Member for his reply although most of the answer was about a question I didn’t ask. Would he agree with me that this is the first sign of trying to block scrutiny of all items that they want to pass through without too much

22 scrutiny? Cutting down on staff is one of the most effective ways to blunt what I thought was a very effective way to seriously try to stop the worst excesses of this council.” Reply “I would absolutely disagree with what Councillor Pearce says. I too value the work that Scrutiny officers do. Unfortunately one member of the team recently left for alternative employment outside of the borough. Another member of the Scrutiny Team has recently been offered a secondment post as part of the transformation project, and that officer has also arranged to go on holiday for the month of December. So we are caught in the staffing arrangements. I have tonight, before this meeting signed forms for secondees in the Scrutiny Team so the understaffing, whilst unfortunate, will not go on for long, and it is certainly nothing more sinister than a case of bad timing.”

6 From Councillor Simon Withey to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration “Can I welcome the decision by the Planning Applications Committee to approve outline planning permission for 165 - 169 Merton Road? How does the Cabinet member think this proposed redevelopment of the site reflects the administration's higher ambitions and aspirations for the area?” Reply “The outline proposals for townhouses reflect the scale and housing types of the surrounding area and seek to add a positive contribution to the currently fragmented street scene appearance on this part of Merton Road. The townhouse type is supported to provide much needed larger housing types which are in keeping with the adjacent conservation area. A number of new flatted developments have taken place on Merton Road, the Council has used its influence through site ownership to provide a more balanced mix of housing choice to the area.” Supplementary “I understand that there were concerns raised at the Planning Committee meeting about maximising the value of this site, and also about the council’s ability to ensure that the proposed development is actually delivered. Would the Cabinet Member like to comment.” Reply “The councillor has actually raised two very valid points, although I would like to say that I find the Opposition’s concerns about maximising value somewhat ironic given that their proposal deliberately set out to sell the site below market value. Our proposal was built on two principles, one was to provide a high quality development that would make a positive contribution to the local area, would demonstrate excellence, and would set a standard that Merton Council expects to see across the borough. The second principle was to maximise the value of the site, of course subject to the first principle. I have to say these aren’t mutually exclusive and the recent economic downturn has demonstrated that the low quality, small developments that have suffered greatest losses whilst the high quality

23 developments have suffered much fewer losses. In terms of the process, we would not enter into the sale and purchase agreement until full planning permission were agreed and that sale and purchase agreement would have conditions stipulating that the development would be built in accordance with the planning permission and it would also set a timescale.”

7 From Councillor Mark Betteridge to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “According to The Wimbledon Guardian Merton Council sources have said that the site for the proposed eco-park in Raynes Park is likely to be scrapped from the South London Waste Plan shortlist currently under consideration. Can the Cabinet Member state if this statement is correct and what representations Merton Council have made to the SLWP consultation on this and other proposed sites in the borough?” Reply “To date, Merton Council has not made any statement as to the likelihood of any sites within the draft South London Waste Plan being taken forward into the final plan or not. It would be premature to make such a statement while we are still assessing the consultation responses and gathering more evidence on all sites relating to some of the main issues that were brought up at the public consultation (such as the impact of traffic, environmental pollution and ecology). The final plan is likely to be considered by each executive of the four partner boroughs in summer 2010 before being submitted to the Secretary of State for an independent examination. Members from the administration and opposition parties from each borough make up the Joint Members Working Party which informs the development of the plan at each stage. As a partner borough, it would not be appropriate for Merton Council to make representations on the draft Waste Plan, thereby potentially prejudging the outcome of the plan. It will be for all the partner boroughs including Merton to agree on a final South London Waste Plan via each Cabinet and full Council.”

8 From Councillor Barbara Mansfield to the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services “I was delighted to be present when the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, visited the Intergenerational Centre on 1st October to bury a time capsule and see for himself the work being undertaken in Merton to develop the first purpose built centre of its kind in the country. Can the Cabinet member update me on when there will be activities taking place at the new IGC and whether there will be a formal opening event?” Reply “Work on the Intergenerational Centre is going well and, subject to final completion dates, it is expected that services will begin to be delivered early in the new year. A manager for the Centre has recently taken up her post and is currently involved in

24 planning the programme of services to be provided - these include parenting; family learning; extended family work; arts and healthy lifestyles activities. Plans are also progressing for the horticulture space and for the adventure playground. A date for a formal opening of the Centre will be set shortly, once handover arrangements with the contractors have been confirmed.” Supplementary “I am interested to see that part of the development of the Intergenerational Centre will involve Merton’s first adventure playground. Can the Cabinet Member tell me when this facility is due to open and what input the children of the borough have had in its design.” Reply “Children have been involved in the design for the adventure playground. Part will be established hopefully during the summer months so that some of it can be used in the Summer and then the second phase will be totally developed on children and young people’s ideas. It is an all-age adventure playground.”

9 From Councillor Martin Whelton to the Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Services “Can the Cabinet member explain what plans they have to modernise Colliers Wood Library now that they’ve decided to extend the lease to 2017?” Reply “The lease hasn’t been extended but there was an opportunity to break it in 2010 which led to our investigations for possible alternative sites. By the end of the financial year we shall have extended the implementation of self- service technology into the library (this involves a new relocated counter opening up the entrance), painting of surfaces and increase in stock. Any further improvements will be part of the next financial year’s budget allocations. I might add that the library was recarpeted throughout in 2007 following the flood damage.” Supplementary “Could the Cabinet Member explain why it has taken so long, given that a number of alternative sites have been floated. I understand that the Brown and Root Tower, and Sainsbury’s were suggested and they’ve come to nothing. I understand that the lease is extremely costly. Have you any plans to modernise the library or will it be left behind in the future?” Reply “Sometimes negotiations do take rather a long time, particularly in the economic downturn. I can assure the councillor that officers have tried desperately to ensure a good result for Colliers Wood Library. It is being modernised to a certain extent, particularly with the implementation of our FID. It is not as thought we’re saying it’s going the way of Library, and Library. This building is now going to be shared with the NHS, and Cavendish House should be revived and invigorated because the rest of the building that’s currently vacant is going to be turned into a new GP practice/medical centre for the whole area, so the decision to stay looks like a good one.”

25 10 From Councillor David Dean to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “I was pleased to see the Council has recently signed up to the 10:10 initiative on reducing carbon emissions. Can the Cabinet member briefly outline the measures the Council will be taking to meet this commitment?” Reply “The council is currently using capital spend on climate change initiatives to ensure that we reduce our carbon footprints. Initiatives include Combined Heat and Power technology for the civic centre, energy saving lighting in the civic centre and across some of the council’s sports facilities. The climate change team are currently assessing options for district heat and power networks in Morden and Mitcham. Phipps Bridge has also recently been designated a low carbon zone – this project will see existing homes retrofitted to become more eco-friendly.” Supplementary “I understand that the 10:10 initiative was recently debated in Parliament. I wonder if you know how many Labour MPs voted for it?” Reply “I rather think the answer to that is none.” 11 From Councillor Stephen Alambritis to the Leader of the Council “Will the Leader apologise to the residents of this Borough for the constant and ceaseless roadworks throughout the area and especially around Centre Court at this crucial time?” Reply “The works being undertaken around Centre Court are being carried out by Southern Gas Networks. It is a major project and as such is bound to cause disruption. The Council is not in a position to prevent the works taking place but has been influential during its discussions with Southern Gas on how the work is conducted and how to minimise the disruption as far as is practicable. Members have been updated on progress on a regular basis at Community forums and the time they will take to complete. Southern Gas have agreed to suspend the works from 24 November for the Christmas period for the benefit of local residents and businesses, particularly retailers, in the lead up to and over the Christmas period. They will return on 4th January to continue their works on the eastern side of Wimbledon Bridge, which will be completed by Easter. It should also be noted that the works contribute a substantial investment to upgrade gas pipes to the benefit of local residents.”

12 From Councillor Krystal Miller to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration “Can the Cabinet member tell me what the status is of the proposals to redevelop forecourt?” Reply

26 “Improving the forecourt of Wimbledon Station has been identified as one of the highest priorities for improving Wimbledon Town Centre by the local community. As a result, a formal bid for funding to improve the station forecourt has been submitted to TfL (Transport for London) through their Area Based Scheme programme and to Network Rail /South West Trains through the Station Improvement Programme, all of whom have an interest in the station. In addition, the borough has committed £250k of Section 106 developer contribution monies to the scheme. Informal support for the proposal from TfL has been received as the scheme is considered high priority in light of the 2012 Olympics. Currently a broad 'feasibility design' has been created including the pedestrianisation of the forecourt and simplified pedestrian crossing movements around the station. This is being used as a base case against which a number of technical assessments can be carried out including traffic signal impacts and engineering issues associated with the bridge structure. The proposal has been shared informally with a number of local community groups for feedback, which has generally been positive though comments about the proposed steps in the station forecourt and the taxi rank configuration remain under review. This will be followed by a refined version of the outline design using both urban and highway engineering resources. It is proposed to develop the outline design for an informal consultation in Spring 2010. The outcome of the consultation will allow for refinement of the outline design and for the formal approval processes to begin (both council and external). Currently it is planned to initiate the detailed design process in Summer 2010 allowing for procurement of the construction of the scheme to be completed by Autumn 2010 and implementation in the early part of 2011. In addition to improvements in the station forecourt itself, officers are continuing to liaise with the Mayor's office with a view to securing additional investment to improve the street scene in the area surrounding the station in advance of the 2012 Olympics. In addition, a 2010/11 and 2011/12 LIP programme bid has also been submitted to TfL that would bring improvements to the length of the Broadway, from Mansel Road to the , a response to which is expected later this year.”

13 From Councillor Russell Makin to the Leader of the Council “The Evening Standard has recently stated that the Merton Council Tax increase this year is likely to be 2.9%, at the same time as most other Councils in London are proposing a 0% increase or a reduction in the Council Tax. Such an increase would see Merton’s residents continuing to pay unnecessarily high levels of council tax at the same time as this administration stockpiles huge amounts of unused cash. Will the Leader of the Council confirm the Evening Standard’s report?” Reply “I assume this question refers to the article that appeared in the Evening Standard on 2nd October 2009. If so, the information reported in the Evening Standard has been misinterpreted.

27 The newspaper includes a table of Inner and Outer London expected increases but where they did not have any information about a particular borough, as was the case with Merton, they marked it as “Unclear” and provided the 2009/10 increase. Unfortunately the Evening Standard failed to get this right for Merton as our 2009/10 increase in the Merton element of the council tax was 2.5%, or 1.9% if including the GLA precept. It is disappointing that this article includes inaccurate statements on an issue which is of importance to Merton’s residents, particularly at this time of recession. The council’s Communications team has already taken this matter up with the Evening Standard directly. Merton has not yet concluded its budget process for 2010/11 but is making great efforts to produce a balanced budget, maintain high quality services and provide greater value for money. At the same time Merton continues to be one of the worst funded authorities receiving Government funding at the lowest level available. We are not yet in a position to determine the exact rate of council tax for 2010/11 but are determined to keep it as low as possible, in line with our 2006 manifesto commitment. Furthermore, we are undertaking a major review of all council services to ensure that we are in a position to identify and delivery continuous efficiency savings and performance improvements. The final decision will of course be subject to a vote by full council on 3 March 2010.”

14 From Councillor Simon Withey to the Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Engagement “Can the Cabinet member outline how the Council is engaging with the local police to tackle anti-social behaviour in Wimbledon town-centre?” Reply “The Council works closely with the Police on many matters around anti-social behaviour and have a joint team that deal with the issues. There is an award winning multi-agency group (3 awards in 3 years – the only borough in the country to achieve this) called the joint tasking groups that leads on joint working across the field of community safety. This is chaired by a senior council member of staff and a senior police officer and meets fortnightly. The issues of anti-social behaviour in our town centres is managed through this group. Each town centre has an action plan that outlines the multi-agency response to the issues faced in that geographic location. The JTG monitors these action plans and ensures that all actions are undertaken. This includes tackling alcohol related crime, crime on public transport, environmental issues and the like. Council departments, as well as the Council as a whole, such as Children Schools and Families, Environment and Regeneration, Safer Merton and Community and Housing are represented on this group and in the delivery groups as are the Police, Safer Neighbourhood team, Safer Transport Teams and Safer Schools. As well as having input from the Fire Authority (who are very active in this group) Health, Probation and RSL’s when needed.”

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15 From Councillor John Dehaney to the Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Services “How does the council intend to deal with housing repairs during the transitional period prior to the transfer of the housing stock to Merton Priory Homes?” Reply “From the stock transfer ballot up to the transfer date, the council has been and will continue to carry out repairs to council homes as normal; that is to the same standards and level of service as applied before the ballot. There is also a substantial programme of major works, such as window replacement, lift renewal and external decorations, being undertaken in 2009/10, comprising some 13 schemes to a total estimated value of £4.4m.”

16 From Councillor Oonagh Moulton to the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services “It is a year since the public became aware of the Baby Peter case. I know in Merton we saw a rise in the number of referrals to children’s social care and I understand the numbers are still high. Can the Cabinet Member tell me what steps are being taken to ensure that referrals to children’s social care are appropriate and that those who go on to have a child protection plan, or go into care, have the same threshold entry criteria prior to the Baby P case?” Reply “The rise seen in referrals to Merton had started prior to the Baby P case becoming public knowledge, however following the publicity about this case there was a very significant increase in referrals for around 6 months. Numbers of referrals are now between 400 and 475 per month on average. This represents a consistent and steady increase since 2006 when referrals on average were between 250 and 350 per month. Anecdotally we hear that referrals across many London boroughs have followed a similar path. Our numbers of children subject to child protection plans and coming into care have risen over the past year, although it is worth noting that current levels are still below our 2004 levels (currently 132 subject to child protection plans and 137 in care). Merton continues to operate a model of successful early intervention and family support which reduces the need for child protection plans and children in care. Compared to statistical neighbours our numbers of both remain low due to the continued use of comprehensive family support services – including Phoenix Project and Bond Road Family Support Team. Officers consider that the increase in referrals to children’s social care has occurred as a result of better identification of need rather than lower thresholds for concern, alongside year on year increases in numbers of children in the borough. Merton’s thresholds remain appropriate and in line with our commitment to the lowest level of intervention and identifying the earliest opportunity to provide support to a child and family to prevent the need for more intrusive and higher costs interventions. This is

29 evidenced by feedback from partners, who continue to debate with social care the level of threshold applied, the use of the child well-being model and its clearly stated indicators of need. Regular audit of case files and the management of thresholds via the longstanding Resources Panel have also provided consistency for practice in Merton in the months following the Baby Peter case publicity.”

17 From Councillor Geraldine Stanford to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “What justification can the Cabinet Member give residents for scrapping the Merton Horticultural Show?” Reply “The proposal to cut the funding for the Merton Horticultural Show has not been made lightly but in the current climate in which the Council is required to make budgets savings it has taken a close look at the services that it offers on a cost- benefit basis. For some years the Show has benefited from being subsumed within other borough events thereby piggy-backing on the infrastructure that these larger events benefits offered, thereby reducing typical event production costs. In the past the Horticultural Show formed part of the Merton Lions Club event on the August Bank Holiday weekend. This past summer the Lions event did not occur and so the Council was able to produce the Horticultural Show as part of the larger, one-off Change for Life event that the Council organised in Morden Park in the stead of the Lions event. There are no current plans and no secured budget to repeat this event in 2010. What is more, it has been agreed as part of the 2010/11 budget process that the events team with Greenspaces will be reduced by half from 2010 and therefore officer capacity to produce events, most especially those of a skilled horticultural nature, will be reduced next year. The focus will henceforth be prioritised on production efforts for our most popular local events such as the Mitcham Carnival, the Borough fireworks events and support for the Wimbledon Championships, as well as providing support for the numerous and increasing number of community produced events that take place throughout the year. Participation in the Horticultural Show has, furthermore, declined significantly over a number of years. The number of show exhibitors this year, for example, was only 39, compared to 60 in 2005. There are several horticultural and gardening societies based in the borough, who together with some residents’ associations, organize local horticultural shows and events annually, thereby ensuring that the interests and profile of horticulture will not be diminished as a consequence of this decision.”

18 From Councillor Brian Lewis-Lavender to the Cabinet Member for Planning and Traffic Management “We know that residents want the Council to control speed in residential roads and

30 improve road safety. At the same time, some residents in Cannon Hill ward have expressed concern to me about the potential impact that related enforcement measures can have on their quality of life. Can the Cabinet member tell me what can be done to minimise this effect?” Reply “The Council regularly monitors the introduction of traffic calming measures to assess their impact both in terms of effectiveness and resident's quality of life. Improvements are therefore considered where appropriate, to ensure that any adverse impacts are minimised. We are aware of concerns raised by some of the residents of Cannon Hill and officers are considering what improvements can be made in this ward to the existing traffic calming measures.”

19 From Councillor Philip Jones to the Leader of the Council “At the Cabinet meeting on 9th November the Leader stated that the use of the Morden Park Playing Fields for sports purposes was protected by covenants. This was consistent with an earlier statement by Council Simpson at a full Council meeting, but contrary to advice I have received from Legal Services. Will the Leader please clarify the correct position?” Reply “Part of the land at Morden Park was acquired by the Urban District Council of Merton and Morden ( now the ) in 1945 .The London County Council ( LCC) acquired the remainder at the same time .Covenants were placed on the title at that time to use the land for educational recreational purposes. In 1992 the then owners sold the land previously owned by the LCC to the Council. As the Council now owned the whole site the covenants were no longer enforceable by a third party. All land owners are required to now register their land holdings with the Land Registry. When this was done by the Council both areas of the parkland owned by the Council were merged under one title and the redundant covenants no longer being enforceable were removed. The purchase in 1992 was part funded by a grant from the Sports Council now know as Sport England. The offer was made on the understanding that the land would be leased to the London Playing Fields Society in order to continue its use for outdoor sport. There are conditions attached to the grant. Under these the council is required to consult with the Sports Council to change any arrangements in the management and the community use for the land.”

20 From Councillor Stephen Kerin to the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services “In light of the increased pressure on primary school places in Merton, can the Cabinet member reassure me that London Councils has been lobbying the government hard on this issue and can she tell me what funding the government has

31 so far provided to address the problem?” Reply “London Councils, working with the Association of London Directors of Children's Services, has indeed been lobbying forcefully for additional funding to address the increased pressure on primary school places across the capital. Data from individual authorities has been collected to evidence the scale of the capacity problems across London and concerted lobbying of government is being undertaken. I can confirm that Merton is closely involved with London Councils on this issue. Partly due to the efforts co-ordinated by London Councils, the government has allocated an additional £200 million countrywide for capital works to fund primary school expansion in 2010/11. We are yet to hear whether Merton will receive an allocation of this funding although a strong application has been made. Further funding from 2011/12 will not be announced until after the next comprehensive spending review in 2010 but there is now, undoubtedly, clear awareness in government of the issue. Officials from the Department of Children, Schools and Families have indicated the need to fund a 12% increase in pupils nationally over the next 8 years - albeit in the context of likely reductions in government infrastructure investment overall.”

21 From Councillor John Dehaney to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “I have had complaints from residents that the council is concentrating street cleansing services on litter picking. This means that dog fouling and smaller detritus remains on the pavement. Could the Cabinet Member assure me that he will review the street cleansing services to ensure that pavements are properly swept and kept clear of all detritus?” Reply “In Autumn, as leaf litter increases, normal sweeping frequencies are amended to allow resources to be focused on streets with the highest number of trees. Residents can also help out by collecting any leaves they have and composting them. To maintain some cleaning on the same day following waste collections a team of litter pickers are deployed within existing resources. We will continue to ensure all pavements are swept and kept clear of detritus.”

22 From Councillor Denise March to the Cabinet Member for Adult Care Services and Health “Can the Cabinet member outline the Council’s position on personalised budgets and what Merton is doing to make residents aware that those receiving funding for long term care have the right to determine the services they feel would best suit them?” Reply “The allocation of social care resources to individuals eligible for ongoing council- funded care and support has been a core component of local authority care

32 management processes since the mid 1990’s. The move towards self directed support and personal budgets as set out in Putting People First has necessitated a review of such allocation arrangements to make sure that they are able to meet the requirements of the new agenda. Essentially, councils are required to implement some form of Resource Allocation System (RAS) in order to determine an allocation of funding to each individual, in other words, a personal budget. Our aim is to develop a RAS that can be used in the majority of situations to produce an allocation of money that will meet an individual’s assessed needs. We have been working to build up the RAS, through both a desk-top exercise by feeding large amounts of data into the system, and through supporting a small number of people to ‘go live’ through the whole self-assessment, resource allocation and support planning process. These individuals are being supported to explore creative and individual ways to best meet their eligible support needs and outcomes with the knowledge of their indicative allocation. This process will continue, with increasing numbers of people being supported to go through this process. One of the targets within the overall adult services transformation programme is to have, by December 09, general information on the Merton website that informs residents of Merton of the key messages behind Putting People First. This will include information about personal budgets and the process by which individuals will be able to determine what services they feel would best meet their assessed needs using the money available to them. This will form part of an overall communications strategy.”

23 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “What assurances can the council give as to the future continuation of lottery funding promised to library?” Reply “Lottery funding was granted in 2007 as part of a three year project. Year 1 started in December 08. Capital allocation was £778,086 (and the council contributed a further £335,500) for the redevelopment of the building which is now complete and we are claiming the final payments. Revenue funding of £179,992 was granted over the three years for project set-up costs (project staff, marketing, training). Some council match funding has been identified for this as well. This was a one-off grant and that particular stream closed in April 2007 so no further lottery funds will be offered. Staff will take advantage of any streams of funding we can apply for that are relevant to the project.”

24 From Councillor Brian Lewis-Lavender to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “Now that the recommendations from the independent consultation process on the future of Morden Park have been to Cabinet and it has revoked the offer of a lease to the GOALS company for use of the playing fields, can the Cabinet member update

33 me on the Council’s progress in providing a new multi use sports area for teenagers, in line with the recognised need to have facilities for all age ranges?” Reply “Work to install the new multi uses sports area for teenagers started on 10th November. The new teen equipment has already been installed, is open and being used. The meeting point / shelter has just the base to be completed once the weather improves. Once we have a dry weather period the works will be completed which we anticipate will be in the very near future.”

25 From Councillor George Reynolds to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “Could the Cabinet Member list full details of burial charges for Merton cemeteries for each of the past five years? Could he also provide a comparative table which lists our current charges alongside those of all other London boroughs? Could he also list Merton’s revenue from burial charges for each of the last five years?” Reply “Yes, we can provide all of these details if required, however we routinely benchmark our fees and charges only against the 7 most adjacent London boroughs - Kingston, Richmond, Hammersmith & Fulham, Wandsworth, Sutton, Lambeth and Croydon and have access to detailed information provided by these local authorities for the current period.”

26 From Councillor Maxi Martin to the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services “I note that no adoptions have been completed this year. This flies in the face of the assurance I received from you in March this year that the naming of our 3 little boys in the press and advertising on television would not only increase their chance of adoption but increase the chances for other children awaiting adoption. This would not appear to be the case. Could the Cabinet Member update me on the situation of these three boys and could she also outline what lessons have been learned by the council as a result of this experience of publicising the identities of these children?” Reply “Since April 1st 2009 we have placed 4 children in adoptive placements with their prospective adoptive parents. These children are now in the process of being adopted and we are pursuing the final court orders required. These adoptions will be completed by the end of March 2010. We have one more child who has an identified adoptive placement and will be moving to his adoptive parents early in 2010. We also have a second child who will be matched with adoptive parents shortly and therefore should be placed with his adoptive parents prior to the end of March 2010. When considering the use and success of adoptive placements it is important to recognise the increasing use of Special Guardianship Orders by the courts to ensure that children have a permanent family. These orders are often used where birth

34 parents retain some level of involvement or where for example permanent matches are made with extended family members. We currently have 11 children with the prospect of being placed under a Special Guardianship Order prior to the end of March 2010. Our use of these orders is increasing largely due to better identification, focus and support of placement for children within extended family networks as an alternative to adoption for children of all ages. 40 people responded to the recruitment campaign for adoptive carers for the three boys noted in the question. There is currently a prospective couple being assessed for these boys for an adoptive placement. British Agencies for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) policy and advice is to use the actual names of the children being given publicity for two particular reasons: • Using a name that is not the child's confuses the child and prospective adopters - a depersonalising process. • BAAF's evaluation of advertising practice has identified that the name first used is important for the prospective adopters who relate to that name subsequently. Lessons learnt from the publicity campaign are that we would seek to use publicity of this type again in the future should it be considered that it would increase the chances of finding a permanent family home for children in our care, especially children who may be hard to place including for example large sibling groups of boys and older children.”

27 From Councillor Judy Saunders to the Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Services “The council, along with external agencies, recently undertook a physical count of rough sleepers in Merton. Could the Cabinet Member explain how the count is undertaken. what criteria is used, and what use is made of the data?” Reply “The rough sleepers count was undertaken in accordance with Govt guidelines published in 2007 (evaluating the extent of rough sleeping) and one rough sleeper was identified (who was already known to Street Rescue). There was a period of three months planning before the count took place where housing officers identified key local agencies (e.g. Street Rescue, Faith in Action, Wardens, Police etc). Two working groups were established. One was to identify known "hotspots" where rough sleepers had been seen and the other group discussed known rough sleepers and worked together to develop housing plans to get them off the streets. The count took place on a single night and was verified by Govt and Crisis. The definition of a rough sleeper is a person sleeping or bedded down in the open air, street , doorways etc. We are not required to carry out another count as we had fewer than 10 rough sleepers, but we will obviously follow up housing outcomes for the individual identified and monitor the "hot spots".”

28 From Councillor David Chung to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services

35 “Parking at corners and the absence of road markings, including the road markings at bus stops, has become a serious problem in Longthornton with the potential for accidents. I am already aware of one such accident in the ward. Double yellow lines, which, unlike white lines, are enforceable, are of course the answer. Could the Cabinet Member explain why double yellow lines have not been implemented where this is a problem in the ward, despite my request to officers?” Reply “All requests made by the Councillor for single and double yellow lines have been added to next years work programme 2010/11. Officers have taken the time to visit these locations with the Councillors. The upgrades of bus clear way and accessibility is underway and should be completed by March 2010. Work will include providing a level platform for wheelchair and buggies to access the buses and also marked out bus stop cages.”

29 From Councillor Agatha Akyigyina to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure “Can the Cabinet Member tell me why the street cleaners turn up before the rubbish is removed instead of after or why they do not turn up to clean at all? I have had several complaints from residents all around Mitcham and other parts of the borough about this terrible service that never seems to improve.” Reply “Sweeping schedules are organised to ensure sweeping takes place on the same day following waste collections. On occasions because of operational difficulties this may not always be possible. In Autumn, as leaf litter increases, normal sweeping frequencies are amended to allow resources to be focused on streets with the highest number of trees. Residents can also help out by collecting any leaves they have and composting them. To maintain some cleaning on the same day following waste collections a team of litter pickers are deployed within existing resources.”

30 From Councillor Stephen Alambritis to the Leader of the Council “Will the Leader join with me in penning a letter to Sutton and Merton Patient Care Trust (PCT) urging the PCT to offer two conventional IVF cycles and to desist from reducing the qualifying age limit for Merton's female residents who would dearly love to have a baby?” Reply “I assume that Cllr Alambritis is referring to Sutton and Merton Primary Care Trust rather than Patient Care Trust. He may also not be aware that the Primary Care Trust was recently renamed as NHS Sutton and Merton. I am aware of the specific concerns raised by our Healthier Communities and Older People Overview and Scrutiny Panel who looked at this in some detail, and I am prepared to back up these concerns through the letter suggested. I do know however that the Cabinet member for Adult Care Services and Health wrote to the Chair of

36 NHS Sutton and Merton immediately following the relevant scrutiny committee meeting to express concerns about these proposals on behalf of the administration. There have also been some developments on this issue since the scrutiny meeting in October. I understand from the Chairman of the Healthier Communities and Older People Overview and Scrutiny Panel that, following discussions with NHS Sutton and Merton, they have taken the concerns raised by the Scrutiny panel about the upper age limit on board and have amended the age range, between which Merton's female residents will be able to receive IVF treatment, so that it will now be age 30 to 36.”

31 From Councillor Stephen Alambritis to the Leader of the Council “What plans does the Leader have to use some of his reserves to brighten up the Borough’s High Streets in the run up to Christmas and give a real boost to Merton’s shoppers and traders?” Reply “The Council is currently carrying out a wide range of initiatives in order to improve significantly the attractiveness and vibrancy of our main town centres and shopping areas. After seven years of lighting up Merton's high streets, the borough's previous Christmas lights were decommissioned as a large number were damaged or broken. To replace this popular feature at Christmas, the council invested £30,000 of Section 106 money on a new set to brighten up Merton's town centres during the seasonal period. Residents at Community Forums were asked to choose which lights they'd like to see from a number of different LED designs, which use considerably less electricity than conventional lights. Also for the first time, the council has given local businesses the opportunity to sponsor the Christmas lights, helping them to advertise their business in the borough's town centres. The Christmas Lights were officially switched on by the Mayor with a little help from Santa on Friday 20th in Mitcham for the first time in 10 years. The event was well attended and featured carol singing from local schools, support from local businesses as well as other local community groups. Unfortunately due to the high winds and torrential rain in the last week, our contractors were only able to erect the lights in Mitcham. The rest of Merton's town centres will be complete by tonight (Wednesday) in time for the Winter Wonderland in Wimbledon tomorrow (Thursday). In addition we installed nearly 70 new dual recycling/landfill waste litter bins in Mitcham last week. As of the 30th November 2009 the parking charges (pay and display) in all of the Wimbledon Town Centre Car Parks managed by the Council will be reduced. This is a direct result of a fall in demand for parking spaces, It is expected that this will attract more shoppers into the town centre and ultimately benefit the business community in the period leading up to Christmas and beyond. In addition, as of 30th November 2009 season tickets within Morden Town Centre Car Parks managed by the Council will be reduced by 50% to encourage more users to park in Morden

37 Town Centre thus benefiting businesses and residents. Gum removal has now been completed in Raynes Park and Mitcham. We are waiting for Southern Gas Networks to complete their work before we can finish in Wimbledon town centre and we are currently clearing the footway in Morden Town Centre. With regard to the roadworks on the Broadway, we have agreed with Southern Gas Networks to suspend these for six weeks over the Christmas period. Stopping the roadworks at this time will not only benefit local residents but will also assist local businesses by encouraging more people into the town centre. Wimbledon Chase improvement works are currently under construction and due to be completed by 4th December. Following the construction works, we will then be carrying out footway cleansing. Guard rail removal is also currently taking place in Wimbledon Town Centre and we are looking at current guardrails in the other town centre locations and other installations across the Borough.”

32 From Councillor George Reynolds to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “Could the Cabinet Member update me on what progress he has made in clearing the green area by the railway on Robinson Road? Could he undertake to discuss with the owners of the site the possibility of transferring ownership to LB Merton so that, instead of the current eyesore, we can add to the green space we offer to our residents?” Reply “High Street Colliers Wood is a red route and falls under the responsibility of Transport for London. The area of land in question is owned by Network Rail and contact has been made with them several times this year asking that they give attention to the area and cut back vegetation contained within it. The Council will continue to notify TfL and Network Rail of any reported instances of overhanging vegetation that need attention. London Councils have agreed a Memorandum of Understanding on the management of local environmental quality on adjoining railway land and officers will investigate if there is scope in the document to encourage Network Rail to cut back the vegetation.”

33 From Councillor Stephen Alambritis to the Leader of the Council “Does the Leader believe Goals will take his decision to say no to them around the commercialisation of Morden Park lying down and if not will he tell them to "get over it" and be damned with any legal consequences that may follow?”

Reply “The legal consequences of the Cabinet's decision to revoke the Cabinet decision of 21 January 2008 to dispose of Site A Morden Park Playing Fields to Goals Soccer Centres Plc on a lease agreement, were spelled out in a confidential paper that was provided to all Cabinet members, which Cllr Alambritis has access to.”

38

34 From Councillor Maxi Martin to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “Now that the Cabinet has bowed to pressure from local people and has been forced to revoke the decision to lease Morden Park Playing Fields to GOALS, can he tell me what the next step for Morden Park is?” Reply “The implementation plan relating to the findings of the Morden Park Vision was appended to the Cabinet report of 9th November 2009. It identified findings for implementation in the short term,1-2 years, medium term (subject to finance becoming available), 3-4 years and long term (subject to further consultation and funding becoming available), over 5 years.”

35 From Councillor George Reynolds to the Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Services “Could the Cabinet member explain exactly what funding cuts the council envisages making to Adult Education services in 2010? Could she also give a breakdown of the proportion of students using this service by ethnicity and disability status? Could she further give details of any Equality Impact Assessment that has taken place in relation to the proposed funding cuts?” Reply “The savings will be achieved through the deletion of the Deputy Principal post and a Head of Department position. In addition it is our policy to ensure we maximise the funding received from the Learning and Skills Council through efficiencies, a new class closure policy has been implemented since September so as to ensure we avoid running courses on low numbers. For example it is cost effective to run 1 class with 16 students rather than running 2 classes with 8 students on each. A full equality impact assessment was not undertaken as courses for adult with Learning Difficulties and Disabilities, English, Maths and ESOL have smaller class sizes from the outset. In addition if we are required to meet the requirements of a learner with disabilities on our mainstream provision we can override the class closure policy. We have 134 learners (10%) with disabilities on our accredited courses and 72 (3%) on our non accredited programmes We have 871 learners (67%) from ethnic minority groups on our accredited courses and 823 (36%) on our non accredited programmes.”

36 From Councillor Ian Munn to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “Could the Cabinet Member please advise when the footpath leading from Phipps Bridge Road to the Phipps Bridge Tram Stop will be repaired and be made fit for purpose?”

39 Reply “The public rights of way for which we are responsible were walked this Summer, are properly surfaced and the photos taken at the time show them in good condition. A further inspection has been undertaken during the last few days and a large puddle has been located. Arrangements have been made to have it drained and assessed following which any remedial works will be undertaken.”

37 From Councillor Dennis Pearce to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “Now that the Cabinet have accepted the results of the consultation on Morden Park, can the Cabinet Member assure me that the council will do as much as it possibly can to cooperate with and to facilitate local community groups either singularly or in partnership that have expressed interest in providing sports facilities in the recent past?” Reply “The council has a successful track record of work with community groups singularly and in partnership on a range of leisure and development initiatives across the borough. Any proposals coming forward relating to Morden Park will be treated in the same manner. Where proposals are possible, affordable and appropriate the council will do as much as it possibly can to work in partnership to bring them to fruition.”

38 From Councillor Dennis Pearce to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “As the Cabinet Member is no doubt aware, there are restrictions placed on Wimbledon Common regarding the amount of dogs any one person can walk at a time. This restriction has resulted in professional dog walkers finding other areas to carry out their business. Is he aware that there have been complaints to local councillors by residents who use Morden Park and Playing Fields where they often have to share the pathway with people who walk 8 or 9 dogs at a time? Could he confirm that the council will bring forward by-laws to prevent multiple dog walking in areas other than Wimbledon Common, such as Morden Park and Playing Fields? Is he ready to offer the same protections to users of other parks as is currently afforded to users of Wimbledon Park?”

Reply “In 2007, the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005, brought into force 5 new offences, which are commonly known as Dog Control Orders. These are:-

• Failing to pick up after your dog.

• Failing to keep a dog on a lead on roads, pavements, footpaths and designated

40 parks.

• Allowing a dog within certain designated areas where dogs are excluded, like fenced children's play areas

• Not putting, keeping, a dog on a lead when directed to do so by an authorised officer.

• Taking more than the specified number of dogs onto land The London Borough of Merton has implemented 2 of the above offences, the first and third points. There are no immediate plans to introduce the remaining 3 offences as yet, which includes taking more than a specified numbers of dogs onto land, as the current economic climate necessitates the need for the Council to provide services in the most cost effective manner hence the existing animal welfare services has been tailored to meet the statutory requirements laid on local authorities. We will continue to keep this under review, however at present we continue to operate using the existing animal welfare service to provide advice and guidance as necessary.”

39 From Councillor Dennis Pearce to the Leader of the Council “Does the Leader agree that the savings his administration proposes will damage the services we provide to older people, children, and other vulnerable groups?” Reply “No, I would not agree. This administration has been clear about the need to protect the services we provide to older people, children and other vulnerable groups. The savings analysis for the 2010/11 budget proposals we have brought forward so far within Community and Housing clearly show that the vast majority of savings in this department are a result of increased efficiency through procurement (68%) or a reduction in staffing costs due to greater efficiency(18%). These two savings types amount to over £2.3 of the total £2.7 million of savings proposed within Community and Housing. In comparison, the total amount of savings so far considered by Cabinet within Children, Schools and Families is considerably smaller at £931,000. This is precisely because it has so far proved more difficult to identify significant procurement savings in this department. This administration is not proposing any savings that would reduce services to an unacceptable level. However, I would stress that Merton continues to be one of the worst funded authorities, receiving Government funding at the lowest level available, at the same time as seeing increased demands on our services. That is why it is so crucial we take forward the transformation programme so as to ensure we can continue to offer quality services to the most vulnerable people in our community at a price Merton's council taxpayers can afford.”

40 From Councillor Dennis Pearce to the Cabinet Member for Children’s

41 Services “I note this administration intends to take the Pre-School Learning Alliance contract back in house but in doing so to reduce spending on the service by £60,000. Does the Cabinet Member really believe there will be no diminution of service by her plan to stretch the workload of existing staff already working at full capacity?” Reply “The additional workload for staff as a result of this saving has been carefully considered and can be incorporated into existing job functions through the developing Children's Centre programme as part of the core offer to local families. Children’s Centres Participation Officers, in partnership with our library service, will facilitate the roll out of the book start programme without stretching existing workloads. The new arrangements will ensure a more co-ordinated approach to maximizing opportunities for family learning alongside the broader range of Children’s Centre services being offered to families. Similarly, work on quality and standards previously undertaken by the PSLA in informal settings will be accommodated by staff in a new restructured quality and standards team in the Early Years Service with the benefit of aligning this work across both formal and informal early years provision in the borough. It is the intention of the Early Years and Children’s Centres Service to continue the contract with the PSLA for the provision of a crèche service and for the organisation to represent the PVI sector on key early years partnerships.”

41 From Councillor Dennis Pearce to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “Now that we have the results of the Morden Park consultation, would he care to inform us when he is going to redevelop the Morden Leisure Centre?” Reply “The proposals for the future development of Morden Park Pools is clearly identified in the action plan appended to the recent Cabinet report outlining the findings of the Morden Park Vision for delivery in the long-term, beyond 5 years, and is subject to both further consultation and funding being available.”

42 From Councillor Gregory Udeh to the Cabinet Member for Planning and Traffic Management “Many residents in my ward have spoken to me about Controlled Parking Zones (CPZ). People have told me that the scheme is a money making venture by the Council. Why has the council failed to communicate the reasons and costs behind CPZs to local residents and can he inform me of what these costs are and their justification?” Reply “The Road Traffic Act 1984 and 1991 decriminalised traffic control offences and transferred traffic regulations power and control to Local Authorities.

42 Controlled parking zones are introduced so that the demand for parking space can be better matched with the space available for safe and judicious parking. The objectives are to: • Minimise safety risks for all road users e.g. by introducing yellow lines at junctions so that drivers can see clearly • Improve access and circulation for vehicles and pedestrians e.g. by providing loading/unloading facilities for properties which require regular servicing, providing passing spaces and introducing yellow lines so that vehicles such as refuse lorries can get access and pedestrians can use dropped kerbs without being obstructed • Prioritise access to parking space - for drivers with blue/orange badges, residents and their visitors, businesses with a genuine need for vehicles and other visitors to the area. Lowest priority is given on the street to commuters. • Discourage inessential use of vehicles. Under Section 35C and 46A of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, a Local authority has powers to vary off and on-street parking charges respectively. In both cases, the Council is required to issue a Notice of Variation. A notice is published in a newspaper circulating in the local area giving at least 21 days notice of the variation. The Notice does not invite representation, and its effects become operational at the end of the Notice period. The legislative provision for the introduction and subsequent setting of parking tariffs and other related charges is set out in the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (as amended). This is complemented by guidance contained in the Secretary of State's Traffic Management and Parking Guidance for London. The Secretary of State’s guidance states that in terms of pricing, residents permits and visitors permits should be priced in a way that covers the cost of operating and enforcing the permit system, while also rationing and controlling the demand on the parking spaces available. The Secretary of State also notes that the London Planning Advisory Committee (LPAC) has advised that charges should be set at a level which gives an 85% occupancy rate of parking spaces, a commonly used operational criterion for parking management.”

43 From Councillor Gregory Udeh to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “Eight months (February 2009 to October 2009) after the introduction of the zonal system of waste collection, it's now clear that our streets and the general environment have become dirtier and more unhealthy. Complaints by residents have risen because waste disposal management has taken a turn for the worse. Resident surveys have shown that fly tipping/littering remain a major concern in various communities. The introduction of wheelie bins can significantly improve our street scene and environment. We will no longer have black bags torn by foxes; and their contents blown around the streets. Boroughs like Croydon and Lewisham have seen commendable improvements in waste management and in the street scene by

43 implementing the wheelie bins scheme. Can the Cabinet Member explain why residents are being denied the wheelie bins scheme?” Reply “Since the introduction of the new Zonal system of waste collection following a reasonable period for embedding the changes the number of formal cleansing complaints we have responded to has reduced as compared to the same period last year (May to October) by 25%. It is true that Fly tipping and litter remain a concern for residents and a challenge for all local authorities. There has been an increase of 23% in the number of fly tips reported during the period April 2009 to October 2009 possibly due to the economic downturn. Our Street Cleansing service is removing 96% of all fly tips reported within 24 hours of the call being received by the Council. Subsequently during the same period the number of enforcement actions taken by Our Enforcement Team have increased by over 20%. In the past residents opinions in relation to wheeled bins have been split. We have to consider any change to containment of waste in conjunction with future plans for waste collection, its treatment and disposal and of course the costs. We have extended our kitchen waste service to cover approximately one seventh of the Borough (10,000 homes). We are collecting the kitchen waste separately in a locked container and are thereby removing materials from the black sacks that predominantly attract vermin such as rats and foxes. This in turn reduces the chances of black sacks being opened up by vermin after they have been placed out for collection.”

44 From Councillor Gregory Udeh to the Cabinet Member for Planning and Traffic Management “The National Government plans to cut the red tape and expense involved in generating energy from wind, in a bid to encourage people to tackle the problems of global warming and climate change. Wind turbines up to 50ft high could appear across the country without planning permission, although there will be new rules and conditions regarding noise, size and appearance of these turbines. This proposal can save up to hundreds of pounds in fuel bills, as well as helping our environment. Is the Cabinet Member in agreement with the above initiative; and is the Council ready to modify our planning rules to allow residents to take advantage of it, in order to reduce their Carbon footprints?” Reply “While I would be concerned that such policies should be sympathetic to the surrounding area, the principles here should be supported. If these proposals come forward as permitted development, the Council won’t need to modify our planning rules - they’d be superseded by national policy (to which any of our future polices must have regard).”

44

45 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Cabinet Member for Planning and Traffic Management “What reassurance can the council give to local residents that the concrete barriers currently in place on Watneys Road will not be removed?” Reply “The barriers are extremely large and heavy and our contractor had to employ specialist lifting apparatus to manoeuvre them into place. It is considered unlikely that anyone without that type of equipment will succeed in removing them. The Council would only consider their removal in an emergency. This would include a request by the police, fire brigade or ambulance service. I would also point out that we have closed no roads in the last 4 years and have not permanently reopened any roads in the borough.”

46 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services “What conditions were placed on the future use of Brenley Fields when A) the land was gifted to the council and B) the land was sold by the council?” Reply “Part of the land is subject to the following restrictive covenants 1. That no house should be erected thereon other than a private dwelling-house with such stable coach house and outbuildings as might be required. 2. That all buildings should be set back 30 feet from the roads adjoining except Tamworth Lane. 3. That no house should be erected of less value than £500. 4. That no trade or business whatsoever shall be carried on. 5. That all houses which might be erected on said land should be detached or semi detached. 6. That no portion of said land should be used as a gravel pit or for sale of gravel. There is also a condition that once 8 houses are built a pleasure ground will be formed and its maintenance will be paid for by the users at 1.5 guineas per annum each. This covenant affects a defined area fronting Cedars Avenue of approx. 1.48 acres or 0.6 hectares. The total site area is 6.51 acres or 2.63 hectares. The proportion is therefore 23%. The covenants already registered on the land transfer when the land changes ownership. There were no fresh covenants placed on the title when it was sold by the Council.”

47 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Cabinet Member for Planning and Traffic Management

45 “What discussions have the council had with TfL about protecting and improving current levels of bus services in Merton?” Reply “We are continually in close contact with Transport for London about improving bus services in Merton. It is important that residents and visitors to Merton are able to move easily around the borough by public transport and the bus network plays an important part in this. We are always keen to hear suggestions for how existing services could be further enhanced as this helps inform our ongoing discussions with TfL. For example, TfL has recently been seeking comments on its 2011-2012 Autumn Bus Service Review Programme and officers have invited comments from Members on this for them to feed back to TfL. However, I note that, at the time of answering, no Labour councillors have responded to this request for feedback. There is an opportunity for Members and residents to discuss transport matters, including bus services, directly with TfL representatives at meetings of the Council's Public Transport Liaison Committee, which is currently a sub committee of the Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel. The next meeting is planned for March I would encourage members of the public to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to raise any issues of concern with the transport providers. Representatives from TfL are also often invited to community forum meetings. We also work closely with our local London Assembly Member in liaising with TfL about improving bus services in Merton, as well as wider public transport issues. Just recently for example, the Assembly Member raised with TfL officials the possibility of direct buses from Morden to and from Morden to Tooting. In terms of funding for bus services, until now this has largely been allocated through the dedicated London Bus Priority Network (LBPN) budget. However, from April 2010 any bus improvements will be funded through the new "Corridor" funding stream which will incorporate the old "LBPN" budget.”

48 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Cabinet Member for Planning and Traffic Management “When does the council expect to make a dedicated cycle lane available between South Wimbledon and Colliers Wood?” Reply “Merton High Street (A238) between South Wimbledon tube station and Colliers Wood does not form part of the London Cycle Network, hence the borough, in recent years, has never had any cycle proposals for this corridor. However, Transport for London's proposed Cycle Super Highway routes include two pilot schemes to be constructed before May 2010 and one of these runs from the City to Merton along the A24 (and the A3). The original proposal from TfL was to terminate the route at South Wimbledon

46 Station. However, it was Merton council's preference to run the route along Merantun Way and onto Morden Town Centre, which would provide a number of additional benefits for residents including improved pedestrian access (new footway in Merantun Way) and improved linkage to key centres such as Morden Industrial Estate. TfL felt it wasn't possible to deliver this within the tight timescale for the pilot Cycle Superhighway. They have now decided to terminate the official route at Colliers Wood underground station, which has more space for cycle parking and opportunity for quality urban realm improvements to help with the branding of the Super Highway concept. In addition, they have agreed to provide a feeder route to be completed to the western end of Merantun Way by May 2012. From here, the development of other funding opportunities in partnership with TfL should hopefully enable a quality route to be completed within reasonable time scales to Morden Town Centre. Following discussions with relevant Cabinet Members, the London Assembly Member for Merton and Wandsworth also recently raised this issue with the Mayor of London at Mayor's Question Time, to which the following response was received: "Cycle Superhighway Question No: 3532 / 2009 Answer from the Mayor: Although it is not possible at this stage to extend the superhighway to South Wimbledon, this does not preclude the possibility of extending the route there in future. TfL has committed funding to designing a cycling link between the end of the Cycle Superhighways route at Colliers Wood, and the Merantun Way junction with Morden Road. Construction of any future extensions to Morden are beyond the scope of the Cycle Superhighways project budget, although TfL has committed to work with the London Borough of Merton to explore potential funding options for additional cycling infrastructure in this area."”

49 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Services “What current services does Merton provide to Moat Housing Association, when the contract for these services was last reviewed, and how costs are calculated?” Reply “Safer Merton provides a Neighbourhood Warden service for the Moat properties on the Pollards Hill estate through an SLA. Moat fund the full cost of employing one warden, a total of £27,923 in 2009/10. The SLA is reviewed every three years, with Moat's financial contribution being reviewed annually. Performance is monitored every three months. Moat Housing Group's office at 50 Montgomery Close is leased from the council at a full commercial rent, subject to five-yearly review. The terms of the lease will be reviewed on its expiry in 2013. However, the Environment and Regeneration department also have dealings with Moat as Merton Housing signed a contract with Moat back in 1999 to provide

47 landlord or managing agent type cleaning services at their Pollards Hill site. Following a reorganisation in Merton Housing in 2002, E&R have continued to supply the service. 7 full time E&R posts are currently linked to it. In January this year Moat informed us that they were tendering a series of new packages to meet their housing needs across Southern England including landlord cleaning and grounds maintenance. They packaged the Pollards Hill site with other areas outside the Merton Borough. Following consultation with the then E&R Director and Merton Housing, it was decided that this was not core business and Merton would not tender for the work. Consultations have taken place with the 4 Merton staff (the rest are currently agency) involved over Tupe arrangements. We understand that the new contractor is due to be appointed in December and the staff are likely to be Tupe'd in February 2010.”

50 From Councillor Martin Whelton to the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services “Can the Cabinet Member give the number of school places at each Merton Primary School for reception admission in 2009/10, the number of applications for each primary school and the number of children admitted in September 2009?” Reply “Merton primary school applications and offers – September 09 entry PAN 1st Prefs Offers Vacancies

Abbotsbury Primary School 60 55 60 0 All Saints' CofE Primary School 30 29 30 0

Aragon Primary School 60 55 58 2 Beecholme Primary School 30 27 30 0 Benedict Primary School 60 25 54 6 Bishop Gilpin CofE Primary School 60 95 60 0 Bond Primary School 60 54 60 0 Cranmer Primary School 60 84 60 0

Dundonald Primary School 30 63 30 0

Garden Primary School 60 18 60 0

Garfield Primary School 60 31 60 0

Gorringe Park Primary School 60 64 60 0

Haslemere Primary School 60 62 60 0

Hatfeild Primary School 60 73 60 0

Hillcross Primary School 60 43 58 2

Hollymount School 60 38 60 0

Holy Trinity CofE Primary School 60 51 60 0

48 Joseph Hood Primary School 60 21 35 25

Liberty School 60 62 60 0

Links Primary School 60 50 60 0

Lonesome Primary School 60 35 60 0

Malmesbury Primary School 60 55 60 0

Merton Abbey Primary School 30 21 30 0

Merton Park Primary School 30 70 30 0

Morden Primary School 30 29 30 0

Pelham Primary School 30 34 30 0

Poplar Primary School 60 55 60 0

Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School 60 55 60 0

Singlegate Primary School 30 40 30 0

SS Peter and Paul RC Primary School 60 58 60 0

St John Fisher RC Primary School 60 58 60 0

St Mark's Primary School 30 30 30 0

St Mary's Catholic Primary School 30 50 30 0

St Matthew's CofE Primary School 30 46 30 0

St Teresa's Catholic Primary School 60 48 60 0

St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School 90 62 89 1

Stanford Primary School 60 46 60 0

The Priory CofE School 60 76 60 0

The Sherwood School 60 81 60 0

West Wimbledon Primary School 60 63 59 1

William Morris Primary School 30 27 30 0

Wimbledon Chase Primary School 90 107 90 0

Wimbledon Park Primary School 60 115 60 0

2280 2261 2243 37

Notes: PAN in table is the admissions number for each school. 1st Prefs are the number of first preference applications for the school at the closing date for applications. Offers/vacancies is the current position as at 23/11/09.”

51 From Councillor Patricia Lewis to the Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure Services

49 “Is the Council just paying lip service to dealing with climate change since they are allowing more people to pave their front gardens, thus contributing to adverse climatic changes which they claim to be seeking to prevent?”

Reply “I am rather surprised at this question considering that at the last full Council meeting, the Labour group tabled a motion which would have served to encourage more vehicle crossovers in the borough, the likely consequence of which would be the concreting over of more front gardens and grass verges. Unlike Labour, I do not believe that this is environmentally appropriate, since it would not only threaten the unique character of local neighbourhoods in Merton but would also increase the risks of flooding. It is precisely in order to protect our green borough and protect our streetscape for the future that Merton's Climate Change Strategy promotes the use of porous paving materials which allow rain water to be more easily absorbed. By assisting natural drainage, we can better help alleviate flash flooding. Similarly, by working in close partnership with the Mayor of London, Merton council is planting more street trees in the borough, which of course absorb not only CO2 but also water. The Council has a rigorous Climate Change Strategy part of which, 'The Merton Rule', is nationally recognised as a leading component. This combined with securing sustainable Urban Drainage Systems on new development sites and the use of other planning and building control legislation places Merton at the cutting edge of climate change policy development. In terms of government planning legislation, Class F of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Amendment) (no.2) (England) Order 2008 gives permitted development rights for the provision of a hard surface in the front gardens of dwelling houses. If over 5m2 there is a condition which states: "either the hard surface shall be made of porous materials, or provision shall be made to direct run-off water from the hard surface to a permeable or porous area or surface within the curtilage of the dwelling house" The permeable or porous area used for most paved surfaces is commonly the adjoining lawn or borders. Alternatively, the paved area itself may be made of a porous material. If there are any reports of new hard surfaces being implemented without complying with the above criteria, the enforcement team will investigate and initiate enforcement action accordingly. In addition, the planning application web page has a link to the Planning Portal's interactive house which sets out the new rules on hard surfaces.”

52 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “Will the Cabinet Member detail procurement savings arising from or expected to arise from the Merton Transformation Project?” Reply

50 “Although the Transforming Procurement project has begun it is too early to determine full expected procurement savings. That said, and as detailed within the answer to another question, procurement savings of £2.4m have been brought forward for next year's budget. We anticipate being able to inform members of the full impact of the Transforming Procurement project on the 2010/11 budget in January 2010. As part of the project management arrangements we shall also have a clear picture of third party spend and increasing clarity on unit costs against which future savings can be measured and reported.”

51 ITEM 6

1. From Councillor Stephen Kerin to the Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “I know that Deloitte have been looking at the area of procurement for the Council. Can the Cabinet member tell me what savings we have going forward in the area of procurement for 2010/11?” Reply “The savings on procurement related savings reported to Cabinet on 12th October 2009 totalled £2.4m in 2010/11 and these have been subjected to the scrutiny process. By department these were:- Procurement Savings

SUMMARY OF SAVINGS BY DEPARTMENT

SAVINGS 2010/11 £000 Chief Executive's 0 Corporate Services 116 Children, Schools and Families 60 Environment & Regeneration 283 Community and Housing 1,934 TOTAL 2,393 ˝

2 From Councillor Edith Macauley to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “On the reduction of opening hours in the Cash Office by 50 per cent. i.e. 10 am to 2 pm, there is no doubt that this is going to have a great impact on our residents, especially older people/disabled people and those who do not have bank/building society accounts (often because they want to keep control of their limited budgets by working only in cash). Can the Cabinet Member re-assure residents that the decision which she is taking is in the best interest of residents and is not just an attempt to make easy savings at the expense of a vulnerable and deprived group?” Reply “I am grateful to the councillor for the question as it enables me to outline the options 46 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

52 available to customers. The purpose of reducing the opening hours of the cash office is to make efficiency savings but this will not be at the expense of any vulnerable or deprived group. As an efficient and lean organisation we would like all our customers to pay their council bills by Direct Debit as this is the cheapest form of collection available to us. Other methods of payment include the on-line facility via the website or the automated telephone payment line. These are also cheaper options. A survey of those people who used the Cash Office within Merton Link was undertaken on Monday, 12th May and Thursday, 15th May 2009. Most people who use the Cash Office do so on a monthly basis. About 11% stated they have a disability and 8% were in their 70’s and 80’s. The main services used were to pay Council Tax and Rent. The new arrangements for Social Housing will change the way Housing Rents are collected as Merton Priory Homes have indicated that they will collect their own monies. This will have an impact on the transactions taken by the Cash Office. A similar number of males and females use the Cash Office. As the Cash Office is to remain open for the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., residents in the groups mentioned will continue to have the opportunity to use the Cash Office for payments. Officers are now in the process of educating all customers about the 80+ payment shops and outlets available through the Allpay facility. These offer much longer opening hours than the Cash Office or the Council and are conveniently located around the Borough. This improves accessibility to services for all residents, as they will not have to travel to the Civic Centre in order to make cash payments. For those customers that do not currently have access to a bank account, Merton has promoted its Basic Bank Account with Lloyds TSB banking, which enables such customers to obtain a bank account more easily and which has safeguards to prevent overdrafts and excessive withdrawals. It also enables direct payment of Housing Benefit and direct debits to be set up enabling discounts to be obtained from utilities. A self-service payment kiosk will be introduced from the 1st April 2010 to supplement the service for those hours when the cash office is closed. This will be on an initial two month free trial and will be in place at the start of the annual council tax billing process. The reduction in transaction costs generated by this initiative will contribute to the cost effectiveness of the services provided by the Council that involve a financial transaction, whilst maintaining the cash office service for those residents that need it.” 3 From Councillor Marc Hanson to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration “Can the Cabinet member outline how Merton’s performance in collecting tax compares to other boroughs and how this impacts on the Council’s revenue budgets?” Reply 47 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

53

“The collection rates for Council Tax compared with 30 other London Boroughs as at the end of September 2009 are as follows:-

Average Collection 55.63% Max 62.11% Min 47.44% Mean 56.66% Merton 57.48%

From the sample of 30 London Boroughs, Merton is 10th from top in terms of collection. Merton’s performance target for the end of October 2009 is to have collected 66.70% of the total amount and we achieved 66.81%. September figures are (57.48% achieved against a target of 57.40%).

For Business Rates collection, the position is for the latest figures available available from other boroughs, i.e. September 2009 are:-

Average collection 59.61% Max 63.15% Min 48.00% Mean 59.97% Merton 59.32%

Merton is 20th highest from 31 London boroughs.

Merton’s performance target for the end of October 2009 is to have collected 69.2% of the total amount and we achieved 69.08%. September figures are (59.32% achieved against a target of 59.6%).

Impact on the council’s Revenue Budgets:

The 2009/10 budget that was agreed at council on 4 March 2009 assumed a contribution from the Collection Fund of £1.4 million, which reflects the surplus (relative to amount budgeted) in council tax collected during 2008/09. Similarly, the 48 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

54 2010/11 budget will reflect a contribution from the Collection Fund that will represent the anticipated surplus or deficit from the amount collected during 2009/10 relative to budget. Because we do not know the exact amount of council tax collected for the current year at the time of agreeing the future year’s budget, these amounts do, like most budget items, require judgement.

The Council accounts for its income from Council Tax on behalf of those bodies for which the income has been raised via the Collection Fund which is is a statutory fund separate from the General Fund. The Collection Fund also accounts for National Non-Domestic Rates which it receives from businesses and pays into a national pool that is administered by the Government. These transactions have no overall effect on the balance on the Collection Fund. Merton, as a Charging Authority, is required to collect and pay into its Collection Fund the non-domestic rates raised from the uniform business rate. These non- domestic rates are then paid from the Collection Fund into a national central pool, which is administered by the Government. From the national pool an amount is paid into Merton's General Fund on the basis of a standard amount per head of population. The council pays more into the pool than it receives back.” Supplementary “Can the Cabinet Member explain how surpluses or deficits in tax collection relative to the amount budgeted are treated by the council?” Reply “The budget when it is set has to make an estimate on what amount will be collected from council tax. There is then effectively a reconciliation the following year and that will draw in the amount of surplus or deficit from the collection fund, so the collection fund is in fact a mechanism for reconciling anticipated with actual amounts collected through council tax.”

4 From Councillor Mark Betteridge to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “Since the last meeting of this council this administration has decided to spend more council tax payers’ money on consultants, with the commissioning of Methods Consulting Ltd, from a declared budget of over £380,000. Can the Cabinet Member detail if Methods have given any guarantees on the amount of money that will definitely be saved by their work?” Reply “Methods Consulting Ltd has been engaged to help the Council deliver savings by applying Lean techniques and tools to the ways in which we deliver services. Whilst they will lead on the first tranche of service reviews, a key component of their contract is to develop the Council’s own Lean capability through knowledge and skills transfer. This will enable us to continue a programme of service reviews into

49 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

55 the future without further need for external assistance. The first stage of the project comprises diagnostic analysis of a range of services so that we can select those which should be reviewed first. The main imperative for selecting those services for early review is to achieve cashable savings as soon as possible. Methods Consulting Ltd understand that they have a key role to play in savings delivery. Until the diagnostic work is complete and we have selected the services for review, we will not be in a position to predict actual savings but we anticipate being able to inform members of the impact of the Lean project on the 2010/11 budget in January 2010. That said, and based on their work with other similar organisations, we expect Methods Consulting Ltd to achieve savings of up to 20%. We are confident that, overall, we will see a positive return on our investment within the first 12 months of the project.”

5 From Councillor Corinna Edge to the Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “I see that the Council has been looking to recruit Lean Champions. Can the Cabinet member tell me what the level of interest has been from council staff in this?” Reply “Lean is a philosophy, supported by tools and techniques, which seeks to significantly improve service delivery by eliminating waste from processes to maximise the value to customers. It relies on the full engagement of staff and strong leadership to develop a culture of continuous improvement across the council. We need 8 Lean Champions to form the core of our lean capability. 2 staff members were directly appointed from the Performance and Business Improvement Team at the beginning of the project to provide initial momentum. Their suitability was confirmed during the subsequent Lean Champions assessment process. The remaining 6 posts were advertised across the council. The advertisement generated significant interest and resulted in 12 applications. Overall, the applicants were of a very high standard and all 6 posts have now been filled. 2 of those appointed have now joined the project; the remaining 4 will join in January 2010.” Supplementary “Could the Cabinet Member tell me what value she believes the Lean review will create for the organisation?” Reply “In addition to the financial savings that will be created by the Lean service reviews, the Lean project will also assist in further developing a culture of continuous improvement within the council, so not only do I expect savings to be sustained into the future, but I expect the team to be able to carry on that continuous review programme to allow us to continue to deliver services to a standard that our customers accept and continue to be delivered.”

50 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

56 6 From Councillor Edith Macauley to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “On the issue of Merton Link Security Contract where the Cabinet Member has proposed that there will no longer be a permanent security presence (replaced by "roaming security"), does this not put staff, residents and Councillors at greater risk than at present? Due to the present climate in terms of security, can the Cabinet Member explain why instead of increasing our security we are reducing it?” Reply “The proposal will not put anyone at a greater risk than at present. Security within the ground floor area has a number of different components. For example, there is a network of CCTV cameras linked to monitored screens in the CCTV room and the main security office as well as behind the reception counter. All equipment used in the area is designed with health and safety, e.g. wider desks, chairs that cannot be easily lifted, secure staff areas, etc. The new arrangements will mean that the Council’s security staff will take over the random patrols and will immediately answer calls from the alarm system irrespective of what they are doing or where they are. The new arrangements will draw upon a larger pool of experienced security guards, which will be increased as a result of this proposal. The use of security people within the ground floor area is only part of the security arrangements in use and has been the subject of a risk assessment, physical checking, extra staff training and review. Further (confidential) details of our existing security arrangements, which will remain unaffected by this change, have been circulated separately to the councillor (and to Group Leaders) and are available on request to other councillors.”

7 From Councillor Richard Chellew to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration Can the Cabinet member give an update on the Council’s debt position? Reply “The current amount of long-term debt outstanding is £155.5m., which is as it was at 31st March 2009. This compares with £163.3m at 31st March 2008 and £178.8m at 31st March 2007. The reduction of £23m reflects progress made in the strategy to redeem long-term debt whenever practical and economic to do so. Progress to redeem further loans economically in 2009/10 has been delayed by adverse market conditions which have inflated redemption premiums. It is though expected that the market will improve later in the year, and that some further redemption will take place before year-end. It is not at present possible to anticipate the amount of such redemption, since redemptions are only undertaken when economic, and this is a function of market interest rates at the time of 51 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

57 implementation.” Supplementary “Can I ask the Cabinet Member to tell me what impact the housing stock transfer will have on the Council’s debit deficiencies?” Reply “If the stock transfer proceeds as intended, Merton’s debt will be reduced by £24m. The answer identifies and summarises Merton’s extreme debt position but I think it’s worth noting that this would mean Merton’s net debt would be reduced to a level of £33m which is the level I would have thought Merton has not seen in a very long time.”

8 From Councillor Martin Whelton to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration “Can the Cabinet Member update Council on the latest financial position in terms of the budget and the overspend?” Reply “The Council reported a forecast overspend to Cabinet of £1.748m based on August 2009 but this has reduced to £1.067m based on September 2009 and will be reported to Cabinet in December 2009. Initial forecasts for October 2009 show that the position is expected to have improved further.” Supplementary “Can the Cabinet Member give a further update in terms of what the initial forecasts show in terms of the budget position improving further, and furthermore, what are likely to be the further implications of the challenge in relation to parking and the administration fee for the budget?” Reply “In terms of further opportunities to close the budget gap we have not yet seen the next round of proposals, those will be going through Cabinet and Scrutiny in December to January. At this point, I am pleased to say, we have, through the first round, identified £8.2m of savings, which represents a significant amount of the £14.2m gap that we identified at the beginning of the process. I don’t have the information you’ve asked for related to likely challenge but I’d be pleased to provide it at a later date.”

9 From Councillor Jeremy Bruce to the Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “Can the Cabinet member outline what progress the council has made on improving procurement and also explain how we know when we’ve made progress in this area?” Reply

52 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

58 “A Transforming Procurement project has been initiated as part of the Transformation Programme to improve procurement. The Transforming Procurement project is in 2 phases: Phase 1 A review of current procurement systems and processes to: Ensure that control is maximised (and hence leakage is minimised) in 3rd party spend (demand management). Fully populate the master contract schedule. Review the master contract schedule to identify those contracts which will deliver the greatest cashable saving fastest. Designing and implementing a procurement savings plan. Phase 2 Addressing the underlying matters to improve procurement performance encompassing: organisational model including category management strategy, process and policy development skills and capability enhancement performance management and reporting Sarah Tanburn has been appointed to lead Phase 1. Phase 2 will be led by a new Head of Procurement. We are already making progress. Phase 1 of the project began on 26 October 2009. The role of the Procurement Board has been strengthened with revised terms of reference and membership. This Board acts on behalf of the Corporate Management Team (CMT) to ensure that all procurement activity is properly managed and subject to appropriate scrutiny and quality control. A clearer picture of our overall contractual position is emerging which is enabling the identification of those areas of spend which might yield the most savings in the short to medium term and those contracts for which renewal activity needs to be planned first. As detailed within the answer to another question, procurement savings of £2.4m have been brought forward for next year's budget. We will have made significant progress when we have: A clear operating model with agreed processes, procedures and governance arrangements (including clear accountabilities and responsibilities) in place. A consolidated contract register which enables effective contract management. Improved our supplier relationship management, particularly with local SMEs. Maximised procurement through Professional Buying Organisations (such as the Laser consortium, Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation and Buying Solutions) where appropriate to do so. Achieved significant savings through contract negotiation/revision, contract 53 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

59 management, demand management and spend compliance.” Supplementary “I wonder if the Cabinet Member can tell us how the council’s going to decide which areas of spend will be reviewed first?” Reply “The main purpose of the first phase of the transforming procurements project is to look at realising cashable savings within the authority. I expect we will be focusing on those contracts that offer the most scope to reduce costs. We are doing some work updating and fully populating the contract register at the moment and once that work is complete we’ll have a better view as to exactly where those places are. Although we have already started, for example, doing further work around the procurement of utilities, and the procurement of agency staff. We are also making sure that we continue to promote something called category management, i.e. making sure that we put together all types of expenditure, for example, utility bills across the authority, into one place to enable us to deliver economies of scale. Really the work that’s underway at the moment will be showing exactly where to go further on that prioritisation list.”

10 From Councillor Edith Macauley to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “On the issue of compulsory redundancies, can the Cabinet Member tell us how posts for deletion are identified and how she ensures that no equality group is disproportionately affected? Could she particularly outline how Equality Impact Assessments are used by the council when undertaking compulsory redundancies and could she give examples of any changes to past compulsory redundancy proposals that have occurred due to the findings of the EqIA? Could she also explain what arrangements are in place for those who will be affected by compulsory redundancy, including what additional budget has been set aside to offer training so that they can undertake new roles with the council?” Reply “Posts are identified through a business case-based approach applying the Council’s managing change procedure. Once post/s have been identified through the business case there follows the use of equality impact assessment to ensure no disproportionate impact in decision-making. There is a support package that consists of: preparing for interview, CV writing, managing finance – provided by the FSA, job centre plus advice of seeking jobs elsewhere and how to apply for benefits, preparing for retirement. Additionally we have an employee assistance programme – including counselling services. There is a suite of re-training programmes available that includes: IT skills, report writing, minute taking, project management, general management, etc. The Council also has a redeployment process to enable employees to be matched into suitable alternative employment.

54 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

60 We have secured additional funding from the Learning and Skills Council to support this work via a company called CM training.”

11 From Councillor Jonathan Warne to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration “Can the Cabinet member tell me how Merton's students have fared as a result of the government's decision to centralise the administration of student loans?” Reply “The Council is unable to comment on new student applications as these are now handled by the Student Loans Company (SLC). New students continue to contact and visit us daily to query their entitlement and complain about defects and assessment delays. Unfortunately we cannot offer advice or assistance as we do not have access to their claim application. These students place an additional burden on Merton Student Support and affect our ability to service our existing customers. Under the phased transition arrangements the Council currently has 1,675 continuing students for 2009/10 where we are responsible for reviewing and assessing their awards. Despite a reduction in funding from central government, Merton continues to be one of the most efficient boroughs in the country, albeit with a slightly reduced customer facing function. In the last year of the transition plan, (2010/11) funding is entirely removed from LA's. Merton will have 837 continuing students to assess and a permanent team of 1 F.T.E. Telephone access to the section will be limited to approx. 2/3 hours per day. However, public access for handing in documents etc. will remain unchanged. In the future, new students seeking advice and assistance will be referred to the SLC who are responsible for their assessment. The Student Loans Company have stated that Merton were the best performing borough in London for completing student loan applications with regards to speed and accuracy of processing applications.”

12 From Councillor Patricia Lewis to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “Merton Council is one of the biggest employers in the borough. How active are they in employing people who have experienced mental health problems? In particular, how many such people has the council employed in each of the last three years?” Reply “As part our commitment to diversity the Council is working with voluntary organisations to promote employment and inclusivity such as with MIND and Mencap. Whilst we monitor the 6-strands of equality as per government legislation , which are: 55 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

61 1) race 2) gender 3) disability 4) age 5) sexual orientation 6) religion and belief, we do not monitor employees specifically with mental health issues. although if an employee discloses that they have such a condition it will be generally recorded with our workforce statistics. This is the same for other boroughs. The Employers’ Forum on Disability recommend that staff are not required to disclose this data and in many cases it is not an ongoing issue that affects day to day functioning but can be an acute episode which is then completely recovered from, or even that the individual is not aware that the suffer from such a condition and therefore they are not able to declare it. The Employers’ Forum on Disability also state the term mental health refers to an extremely broad spectrum of conditions and experiences that have an adverse impact on a person’s mental health, emotional wellbeing and sense of self and therefore is very hard to monitor with any reliability.” Supplementary “Can the Cabinet Member tell me what specific help is given in terms of support and training for getting such people back into work.” Reply “There is a lot of support that the council is giving to people in this particular situation. As we’ve said in the answer, we’re working with voluntary organisations such as Mind and Mencap to promote employment and inclusivity. I think it is terribly important that councillors realise that a high proportion of the population, including many in this room, if the average proportions apply to us, will themselves experience mental health problems. I think it’s absolutely vital that we continue to work with people to maximise their employment possibilities.”

13 From Councillor Chris Edge to the Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “Can the Cabinet member give me an update on the Council's workforce reduction plan?” Reply “ Type of Application Current position Accepted by Applications (as at 23 Cabinet Accepted November) % Voluntary Redundancy 244 49 20.1 Reduced Hours 15 7 46.7 Flexible Retirements 21 7 33.3

Total 280 63 22.5

The Council has agreed 63 employees are to be released on grounds of voluntary 56 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

62 severance following Cabinet approval of savings packages on 12 October 2009. Further consideration of more releases are likely to be considered by Cabinet on 15 December 2009. 279 applications have been made of which 65 have so far been approved (see above) 17 are not approved because to release these staff would cost the council more than retaining them to their natural leaving date and the remainder are still to be considered in light of Cabinet decision-making, or will be considered for what is called bumped redundancy – where the employee released makes way for another employee subject to compulsory redundancy. Included within the 279 applications are early and flexible retirement requests which are also being considered.”

14 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration “For each of the last five years, what has been the total spend in each year by the council for A) mobile phone use and B) data services and internet connections, outside of the UK?” Reply “We can not separately identify the cost of mobile phones, data services and internet connections between calls and information accessed within the UK and calls and information accessed outside of the UK. The Council does not receive geographical information. In addition detailed information splitting voice and data services is not readily available. It will take some time to produce this analysis however this can be provided after the meeting. The figures included below are those for the costs of mobile phones, data services and internet connections over the past 5 years

2004-05 £155,035 2005-06 £153,470 2006-07 £130,900 2007-08 £133,930 2008-09 £158,279” Supplementary “Does the Cabinet Member agree with me that it’s unacceptable when this is such a significant spend, that we’re not actually able to identify when Merton mobile phones and internet connections are being used by staff and perhaps even councillors overseas in an unwarranted manner?” Reply “As the answer sets out we don’t have the data to hand but we will certainly commit to investigating details of this to provide a breakdown in the manner in which the request was made.”

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15 From Councillor Oonagh Moulton to the Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “Can the Cabinet member outline what arrangements the Council has made for consultation with the local voluntary sector on its involvement with the Transformation Programme?” Reply “The Transformation Programme assumes a greater role for the voluntary sector in the delivery of the Council’s outcomes in the future, including increasing involvement in the delivery of services. The Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance and the Director of Transformation met the Chief Executives of Merton Voluntary Services Council and Grenfell Housing on 11 November 2009 and discussed the Transformation Programme and the likely involvement of the voluntary sector. It was agreed that regular update sessions should be planned. Specific issues would be addressed as part of the Transformation Programme work streams though bilateral or multilateral discussions between the Council and voluntary organisations.”

16 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration “What were the council’s level of general fund balances at the end of October 2009? On what basis were these balances invested? And what assessment has the council made of the security of these investments?” Reply “As at 31st March 2009, the audited accounts showed that Merton’s General Fund balances were £12.040m. This figure includes £1.040m in respect of Area Based Grants to be used in 2009/10. The Council reported a forecast overspend to Cabinet of £1.748m based on August 2009 but this has reduced to £1.067m based on September 2009 and will be reported to Cabinet in December 2009. This would reduce balances to £10.973m. Initial forecasts for October 2009 show that the position is expected to have improved further. The sum under investment at the end of October 2009 was £103.9m. Whilst this balance fluctuates with general fund cashflow, a balance of £95m-£100m has been common. These balances have been invested under a strategy that recognises the impact of the recent problems in the global financial markets. During 2008/9 as it became apparent that the ‘credit crunch’ would cause casualties in the banking and building society sectors, we tightened our credit policy in order to ensure that we minimised risk. As a result of this action LBM’s cash deposit investments are placed with those financial institutions, (Clearing Banks, the largest Building Society, and an AAA rated Money Market Fund), which have the highest available credit ratings. Of particular

58 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

64 note is that the banks and building society which are used under our current credit policy have a credit rating which implies that they will receive very substantial institutional / UK Government support if it becomes necessary. Consequently the Merton’s Money Market funds are very highly credit rated. It may be appropriate to note that even before LBM’s credit policy was tightened the previous policy was sufficient to ensure the avoidance of exposure to problem situations such as Northern Rock, the Icelandic Banks and the Dunfermline Building Society. The Council’s treasury function, apart from receiving daily credit agency data regarding investment counterparties, endeavours to maintain goodwill with money market brokers who are seen as a source of intelligence that can anticipate the trend in a counterparty’s credit status. In terms of credit security, LBM’s portfolio is considered appropriately placed, although, as the banking situation stabilises, efforts will be made to spread investment across a larger number of parties so as to spread the implication of risk more widely. (Currently funds are spread across six counterparties.) A further feature of credit policy during the period of instability has been that deposits have been placed for periods shorter than might otherwise have been the case ( i.e. to allow funds to be recovered relatively quickly where a counterparty’s credit status falls). This has had an impact on the rate of interest earned on investment, but treasury policy has followed CLG guidance and ‘prioritised security and liquidity above yield’. Given current economic circumstances the attraction of longer-period investment for its currently higher interest rates is considered a risk. Longer-term rates are expected to rise further, and it would be premature to invest now, (and not least given some remaining concerns regarding credit risk). In addition, by maintaining ample short-term liquidity, funds are available to finance debt redemption, and this can offer a better return than the currently relatively low investment rates.”

17 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “When does the council anticipate A) LEAN and B) Target Operating Model work for each council directorate will be completed?” Reply “Lean is a philosophy, supported by tools and techniques, which seeks to significantly improve service delivery by eliminating waste from processes to maximise the value to customers. It relies on the full engagement of staff and strong leadership to develop a culture of continuous improvement across the council. The Lean Project has now begun. Lean Champions have now been appointed; four have joined the project team with a further four joining in January. The early work is focussed on data gathering and diagnostics to inform the selection of the services that will form the first phase of Lean reviews. Priority will be given to those services where the application of Lean techniques will have an impact on cost reduction in 59 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

65 FY10/11, whilst aiming to achieve a balance between services which: • Are predominantly transactional, or • Are highly complex, or • Carry reputational risk, or • Reach across the organisation. Selecting a service in the latter category is particularly important to maximise both the visibility of transformational activity and the spread of new culture. All services within the council will be subjected to Lean review and it is anticipated that this will take up to 3 years. However, the application of Lean techniques and tools is a continuous process and once embedded within the Council will endure well into the future. The Target Operating Model (TOM) will describe how the council is configured to deliver services in the future. Detailed analysis, using the layer approach to organisational design1, of the way Merton delivers its services today – our Current Operating Model (COM) – has identified those areas where transformational activity should be focussed and where there is scope to produce radical change. These will form the basis of the TOM. The work on developing TOMs is progressing well. In some cases, there is only one clear choice of future operating model and in these instances we shall begin transformation as soon as practical (ensuring that we have the financial and staff capacity to transform and that we do not prejudice safe and effective service delivery whilst doing so). In many cases, however, we have a choice in the way we might operate in the future. Officers are now developing these options so that members may make informed decisions on the preferred Target Operating Model. All option development work will be complete by the end of May 2010. The first Transformation Programme report will be taken to Cabinet on 14 December 2009.

1Customers, Channels, Product/Services, Processes, Information, Technology, Organisation, People, Physical Locations.”

18 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “Will the Cabinet Member place on the council website a copy of the most recent consultants register?” Reply “The consultants register is periodically reported to Corporate Capacity, this is reported to Corporate Capacity on green paper as the information is of a confidential nature. It is not the Council’s policy to put confidential information of this type on the Council’s website. A report of expenditure on consultants will be provided to the next meeting of Corporate Capacity on the 21st January 2010.”

60 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

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19 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Change Management and Performance “Will the Cabinet Member provide a breakdown of the proportion of council members of staff A) made redundant B) requesting redundancy or C) being considered for compulsory redundancy in the current year by (i) gender (ii) ethnicity and (iii) disability?” Reply “(a) The following figures show the breakdown of all redundancies within the council since the beginning of the financial year. These figures include schools.

Redundancies - April 09 - October 09

Gender Analysis Headcount % Male 20 47.62% Female 22 52.38% 42 100.00%

Ethnicity Headcount % White 25 59.52% BME 11 26.19% Not recorded 6 14.29% 42 100.00%

Disability Headcount % Disabled 5 11.90% Able 29 69.05% Unrecorded 8 19.05% 42 100.00%

(b) The following figures show the breakdown of all applications received for voluntary redundancy as part of the current workforce reduction exercise. These figures exclude staff who subsequently withdrew an application but include a number of late applications.

Workforce Reduction Applications

Gender Analysis Headcount % Male 89 36.63%

61 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

67 Female 154 63.37% 243 100.00%

Ethnicity Headcount % White 207 85.19% BME 32 13.17% Not recorded 4 1.65% 243 100.00%

Disability Headcount % Disabled 20 8.23% Able 217 89.30% Unrecorded 6 2.47% 243 100.00%

(c) The following figures show the latest analysis of all staff working identified as being potentially at risk of compulsory redundancy following the proposals put forward to Cabinet in October. In many cases, the number of staff identified are significantly greater than the number of posts due to be deleted (e.g. three staff at threat from a planned reduction of one post). These figures are likely to change as departments continue to develop their budget proposals.

Employees Under Threat of Redundancy

Gender Analysis Headcount % Male 24 42.86% Female 32 57.14% 56 100.00%

Ethnicity 62 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

68 Headcount % White 41 73.21% BME 13 23.21% Not recorded 2 3.57% 56 100.00%

Disability Headcount % Disabled 2 3.57% Able 54 96.43% 56 100.00%

20 From Councillor Richard Williams to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration “What was the total IT procurement spend of the council in 08/09 and the expected spend in 09/10 and what were the five largest procurement items in each year?” Reply “In 2008/09 the Council spent £3.463m on IT procurement, of which £2.432m was revenue and £1.031 was capital. The budgeted spend in 2009/10 is £6.140m, of which £3.023m is in revenue and £3.117m is in capital. £2.868m has been spent as at 31st October 2009 of which £2.086m is in revenue and £0.782m is capital.”

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70 COUNCIL EXTRAORDINARY MEETING 25 NOVEMBER 2009 (10.21pm – 10.23pm) PRESENT: The Mayor, Councillor Nick Draper The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Karin Forbes Councillors Agatha Akyigyina, Stephen Alambritis, Mark Allison, Mark Betteridge, John Bowcott, Margaret Brierly, William Brierly, Jeremy Bruce, Angela Caldara, Richard Chellew, David Chung, David Dean, John Dehaney, Chris Edge, Corinna Edge, Samantha George, Maurice Groves, Marc Hanson, Philip Jones, Andrew Judge, Stephen Kerin, Linda Kirby, Sheila Knight, Patricia Lewis, Brian Lewis- Lavender, Gilli Lewis-Lavender, Edith Macauley, Russell Makin, Barbara Mansfield, Denise March, Maxi Martin, Peter McCabe, Krystal Miller, Oonagh Moulton, Ian Munn, Diane Neil Mills, Henry Nelless, Dennis Pearce, George Reynolds, Judy Saunders, Linda Scott, Rod Scott, Deborah Shears, David Simpson, Zenia Squires-Jamison, Peter Southgate, Geraldine Stanford, Gregory Udeh, Leighton Veale, Jonathan Warne, Martin Whelton, David Williams, Krysia Williams Richard Williams, Ronald Wilson and Simon Withey Apologies for absence were received from: Councillors Tariq Ahmad and Steve Austin

1 DECLARATIONS (Agenda Item 2) None advised. 2 POLITICAL MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS (THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IN HEALTH ACT 2007) – ADOPTION OF PREFERRED MODEL (Agenda Item 3) The recommendations detailed in the submitted report were moved by Councillor David Williams and seconded by Councillor Stephen Alambritis. Councillor Alambritis expressed concern at the apparent lack of resident response to the consultation process. The Mayor put the recommendations to the meeting and it was RESOLVED: That A. the ‘Elected Leader and Cabinet’ model is formally adopted; and B. a report is presented to the 3 February 2010 council meeting seeking approval to the constitutional amendments required to give effect to the adopted model.

1 All minutes are draft until agreed at the next meeting of the committee/panel. To find out the date of the next meeting please check the calendar of events at your local library, online at www.merton.gov.uk/committee or by using the contact numbers at the end of this volume.

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