Meeting Pack Derry City and Strabane District Council
Dear Member of Derry City and Strabane District Council
You are hereby summoned to attend the Monthly Meeting of the Derry City and Strabane District Council to be held in the Guildhall, Derry, on Thursday 28 September 2017 at 4.00 pm
Yours faithfully
John Kelpie Chief Executive
AGENDA
1 Notice and Summons of Meeting
2 Webcasting Notice
3 Member Attendance and Apologies
4 Declarations of Members' Interests
Open for Decision
5 Chairperson's Business
6 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Meeting of the Derry City and Strabane District Council held on Thursday 20 July 2017 (Pages 1 - 18)
7 Matters Arising
8 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Special Meeting of the Derry City and Strabane District Council held on Friday 8 September 2017 (Pages 19 - 40) 9 Adoption of the Open Minutes of the following Committees
a Monthly Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on Tuesday 5 September 2017 (Pages 41 - 54)
b Monthly Planning Committee held on Wednesday 6 September 2017 (Pages 55 - 78)
c Monthly Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 12 September 2017 (Pages 79 - 92)
d Monthly Environment and Regeneration Committee held on Wednesday 13 September 2017 (Pages 93 - 110)
e Monthly Health and Community Committee held on Thursday 14 September 2017 (Pages 111 - 132)
f Monthly Assurance, Audit and Risk Committee held on Monday 18 September 2017 (Pages 133 - 138)
10 European Capital of Culture 2017 (Pages 139 - 156)
11 Annual Performance Report 2016/17 (Pages 157 - 200)
12 Correspondence (Pages 201 - 204)
13 Notices of Motion
Councillor Gallagher to Move:
I call upon this Council to implement the procedure of recording a Councillor’s name when making a contribution to the meeting and the recording of said minutes.
Alderman McClintock to Move:
That this Council re-iterates the civic responsibility of the holder of the office of Mayor to represent all; recognises that this has been severely compromised by the ongoing politicisation of the role by Mayor McHugh, wearing the chain of office on several occasions whilst promoting his own party politics to the detriment of good relations. Therefore this Council calls on Mayor McHugh to apologise for his actions and commit to carry out his duties in an inclusive manner and represent all the citizens of the Council area for the remainder of his term.
Councillor Dobbins to Move:
This Council recognises the benefits of autism friendly facilities for parents and families of children and young people with autism, e.g. special performances in the Millennium Forum.
This Council mandates officers to bring back a report on how Council promotes autism friendliness within all our facilities and on a wider basis throughout our city and district.
Open for Information
14 Parliamentary Constituencies Secondary Consultation (Pages 205 - 206)
15 Seal (Pages 207 - 210)
22 September 2017 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 6
Derry City and Strabane District Council
Minutes of Monthly Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held in the Council Chamber, Guildhall on Thursday 20 July 2017 at 4.00pm.
Present:- Councillor M McHugh (Mayor) (in the Chair); Aldermen Bresland, Devenney, M Hamilton, R Hamilton, Hussey, Kerrigan, Mc McClintock, Ramsey, Thompson and Warke; Councillors Boyle, Campbell, Carlin, Carr, Cooper, Cusack, Dobbins, Donnelly, Duffy, Fleming, Gallagher, Gardiner, Hassan, Hastings, Jackson, D Kelly, Logue, McGinley, McGuire, R McHugh, McKeever, McKnight, O’Reilly, Reilly and Tierney.
In Attendance:- Chief Executive (Mr J Kelpie), Director of Health and Community (Mrs K McFarland), Director of Environment and Regeneration (Mrs K Philips), Director of Business and Culture (Mr S Gillespie), Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer (Ms Ellen Cavanagh) Democratic Services Officer (Mrs S Maxwell) and Committee Services Assistants (Ms N Meehan and Ms C Diamond).
______
C209/17 Notice and Summons for Meeting
The Chief Executive read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.
C210/17 Member Attendance and Apologies
Apologies were received from Councillors C Kelly, P Kelly, McMahon and Robinson.
C211/17 Webcast Announcement by the Mayor
The Mayor read the Webcast Announcement for the Meeting.
C212/17 Declaration of Members’ Interests
There were no declarations of interest.
Chairperson’s Business
C213/17 Condolences
1 Page 1 The Mayor extended his condolences to the family of Donnacha McGuire on his tragic death following a fatal road traffic accident and requested that a letter of condolence be sent to the family on behalf of Council.
C214/17 Congratulations
The Mayor congratulated Jason Smyth on winning two gold medals at the World Para-athletics Championships.
The Mayor congratulated the organisers of the Foyle Cup event which had proven a resounding success for the entire region. He stated that it was not only the immediate Council area which had enjoyed the benefits of this event but the wider regions of Coleraine, Ballycastle and Donegal.
The Mayor congratulated the County Derry Minor Team and the Tyrone Senior Team who were crowned Ulster Champions at the Ulster Championship games in Clones the previous weekend.
C215/17 Condemnation
The Mayor condemned two punishment shootings which had been carried out within the Council area and the recent pipe-bomb attack in Strabane. He acknowledged the widespread condemnation of these attacks and stated that there was no place for such activity within the current political arena. He urged those responsible for these attacks to desist from such unwarranted conduct and engage in a more meaningful way forward.
C216/17 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held on 22 June 2017
The Minutes of Open Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held on 22 June 17 (C177/17-C204/17) were submitted.
On a matter of accuracy the Mayor referred to the final sentence of the first paragraph of Minute C182/17 which should have read “He wished to raise awareness of this case and to extend his support and that he, as Mayor was requesting permission from the family of Tony Taylor to visit him in prison”.
2 Page 2 On a further matter of accuracy a Member of the UUP grouping referred to paragraph 4 on page 12 of Minute C201/17 which should have read “fields of medicine”.
It was agreed that the Minutes would be amended accordingly.
Subsequently Councillor Boyle Moved, Councillor Hastings Seconded, and the Council
Resolved that the above Minutes as amended be adopted as a true record of the Meeting
Matters Arising from the Minutes
C217/17 Foyle Haven (Ref C184/17)
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping referred to discussion on the above matter which had taken place at the June Council Meeting and expressed concern that it had not been possible to arrange a meeting with the key agencies to discuss the issues raised at that meeting as one of the key individuals was not available. She said it appeared that the reduction in services would now proceed and the facility would not be operating to full capacity and expressed disappointment that the proposed meeting would not take place prior to this unfortunate reduction in service being imposed. She anticipated that the meeting would take place as soon as possible in order that the situation could be discussed.
A Member of the SDLP grouping concurred with the previous speaker’s comments. She expressed concern that a meeting had not been arranged prior to the introduction of reduced hours and referred to potential difficulties which could be experienced in having the situation reversed following the implementation of the reduced service.
The said Member questioned De Paul’s suggested commitment to Foyle Haven as outlined in the Minutes. She reiterated the need for central funding to be forthcoming in respect of Foyle Haven as was the case with a similar facility in Belfast. She acknowledged that at the July Meeting of the Health and Community Committee it was recommended that Council contact the NI Office to acquire direct funding for Foyle Haven and anticipated that following the adoption of the Minutes of that meeting this would be actioned without delay. She
3 Page 3 suggested that the lack of funding available for this service demonstrated government’s apathy towards such services.
An Independent Member of Council said he understood that difficulties in arranging the meeting had arisen because key individuals were on annual leave and enquired if it would be possible to invite more senior personnel to the meeting.
The Director of Health and Community advised that a request had been made to the Chairperson of the Board regarding attendance at this meeting and they were currently investigating if an alternative representative could be identified. Council was currently awaiting a response in relation thereto.
C218/17 Speech by Incoming Mayor (C189/17)
Arising out of discussion on the above a Member of the UUP grouping queried if there had been any Mayoral engagement with the new MP for South Tyrone or East Londonderry.
The Mayor confirmed that he had met with the MP for South Tyrone the previous week. However there had been no engagement with the MP for East Londonderry. He stated that he would be more than willing to meet with the MP for East Londonderry if he so wished and would be happy to meet with any individual for the betterment of the Council area.
C219/17 Applications Processed under Building Regulations (NI) (ER128/17) – Brown Bins (Ref C194/17)
A Member of the UUP grouping referred to increasing concerns regarding operational issues being experienced in relation to the brown bin collection. He expressed his disappointment that this situation had arisen and sought assurances that the problem would be addressed. He enquired if difficulties were being experienced in terms of staff sickness absence and a shortage of crew staff in respect of the refuse collection service in general?
The Director of Environment assured that Officers would address the issues which had been raised in regard to refuse collection and present a report thereon to the September Meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee. She confirmed that difficulties had been experienced in terms of the roll out of the brown bin scheme.
4 Page 4 An Independent Member of Council referred to discussion on this matter which had taken place at the June Meeting of Committee when Members were advised that a report thereon would be presented to the July Meeting. He expressed concern however, that this report had not been forthcoming.
The Director of Environment said she did not feel that Officers had specified that a report on the matter would be submitted to the July Meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee particularly given the limited timescales between the June and July Meetings. She confirmed that the Head of Environment had provided Members with a verbal update at the July Meeting of Committee and had assured that a report thereon would be presented to the September Meeting. She stated that he had subsequently investigated a number of specific issues raised at the July Meeting and a comprehensive report would be presented to the September Meeting.
C220/17 Special Meeting of Environment and Regeneration Committee held on Tuesday 20 June 2017
The Minutes of the Special Meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee held on 20 June 2017 (SER1/17-SER4/17) were submitted.
Councillor Hastings Moved, Councillor Dobbins Seconded and the Council
Resolved that the above Minutes be adopted as a true record of the Meeting.
C221/17 Monthly Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on Tuesday 27 June 2017
The Minutes of Monthly Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on Tuesday 27 June 2017 (GSP96/17-GSP115/17) were submitted.
Councillor McKnight Moved, Councillor Boyle Seconded and the Council
Resolved that the above Minutes be adopted as a true record of the Meeting.
5 Page 5 Matters Arising
C222/17 Education Authority – consultation on Strategic Plan (GSP102/17)
In response to a query from a Member of the UUP grouping, the Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer advised that a response had not yet been received from the Education Authority to the invitation for them to address a Meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee. She undertook however to contact the Education Authority regarding Council’s request.
C223/17 Monthly Planning Committee held on Wednesday 28 June 2017
The Minutes of the Monthly Planning Committee held on 28 June 2017 (P96/117-P118/17) were submitted.
On a matter of accuracy a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping referred to the recommendation contained in Minute P109/17 and pointed out that this should have read “that Officer’s recommendation on planning application LA11/2016/0777/F is not accepted on the grounds that the recommendation did meet the three reasons provided on policy CTY10”.
It was agreed that the Minutes would be amended accordingly.
Subsequently Councillor Dobbins Moved, Alderman Bresland Seconded and the Council
Resolved that the above Minutes, as amended, be accepted as a true record of the Meeting.
Councillor Carlin recorded her abstention to the above resolution.
C224/17 Monthly Assurance, Audit and Risk Committee held on Thursday 29 June 2017
The Minutes of the Monthly Assurance, Audit and Risk Committee held on Thursday 29 June 2017 (AAR56/17-AAR69/17) were submitted.
Councillor Duffy Moved, Alderman McClintock Seconded and the Council
6 Page 6 Resolved that the above Minutes be accepted as a true record of the Meeting.
C225/17 Monthly Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 4 July 2017
The Minutes of the Monthly Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 4 July 2017 (BC136/17-BC157/17) were submitted.
Alderman Hussey Moved, Councillor McKnight Seconded and the Council
Resolved that the above Minutes be accepted as a true record of the Meeting.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping referred to an Information Seminar which she attended in respect of the Business and Culture Directorate. She thanked the Director of Business and Culture for organising this most informative event and suggested that it be rolled out within all Council Departments.
A Member of the UUP grouping as Vice-Chairperson of the Business and Community Committee, endorsed the previous speaker’s remarks and reiterated that this had proved extremely informative.
C226/17 Monthly Environment and Regeneration Committee held on 5 July 2017
The Minutes of the Monthly Environment and Regeneration Committee held on 5 July 2017 (ER143/17-ER154/17) were submitted.
Councillor Dobbins Moved, Alderman Bresland Seconded and the Council
Resolved that the above Minutes be accepted as a true record of the Meeting.
A Member of the DUP grouping expressed concern at the Mayor’s conduct since taking office. He stated that this view had also been expressed by members of the public. He made specific reference to the fact that the Mayor refrained from addressing Aldermen by their correct title. He stated that there were a number of issues which would suggest that the Mayor was not operating on a cross-community basis.
7 Page 7 He stated that the Mayor’s behaviour could be perceived as tepid by the Unionist community.
The Mayor explained his reference to Alderman as Councillors as a mere ‘slip of the tongue’ and no offence had been intended to individuals or the Unionist community. He stated that he worked tirelessly for the entire community.
An Independent Member of Council said he believed the Mayor’s tone to be most pleasant and he did not feel offence had been intended or caused.
C227/17 Monthly Health and Community Committee held on Thursday 6 July 2017
The Minutes of the Monthly Health and Community Committee held on Thursday 6 July 2017 (HC142/17-HC171/17) were submitted.
Alderman R Hamilton Moved, Alderman McClintock Seconded and the Council
Resolved that the above Minutes be accepted as a true record of the Meeting.
Matters Arising
C228/17 Brandywell Stadium (HC147/17)
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping referred to a request by a Member of her Party at the June Meeting of the Committee for a report on progress in relation to Brandywell Stadium. She also requested an update in relation to plans for the City of Derry Rugby Club.
C229/17 Pilot Community Crisis Intervention Service (HC162/17)
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping welcomed the fact that this service was going out to procurement and the progress which had been made. She looked forward to this service ultimately being made available throughout the City. She stated that the scheme would have been extended had additional funding been identified but anticipated that work would continue with the statutory agencies involved and in the pursuit thereof and the required funding would be made available in order that the pilot scheme could be extended and evaluated. She
8 Page 8 referred to discussions which had taken place with representatives from the Task and Finish Group who remained positive and committed to this service being implemented and becoming operational. She again welcomed the pilot service which she said was required by the most vulnerable in society.
A Member of the SDLP grouping whilst welcoming the six month pilot scheme, expressed concern in terms of its operation and how it would be rolled out. His Party had also requested a report on the matter following the procurement process. The Member then queried the membership and establishment of the Task and Finish Group.
The Director of Health and Community confirmed that the Task and Finish Group had originated through Officers following a proposal within the Health and Community Committee that Council lead on the establishment of a Crisis Intervention Service. She stated that the statutory agencies involved were those with responsibility for health in terms of the Trust, the Public Health Agency and other emergency services including PSNI. She stated that there had been engagement with community response organisations, both through committee structures and voluntary providers but also through invite proposals to look at how such a service might work and to inform the development of the specification. She stated that the original group was facilitated by the then Mayor Councillor McCallion and thee had been some discussion during Mayor McClintock’s term.
An Independent Member of Council referred to a number of issues at the July Meeting of the Health and Community Committee which did not appear to have been addressed. He referred to the numerous campaigns which had been carried out surrounding this issue and enquired as to how much of the proposal had been framed around consultation with the general public and the wide and varied number of interest groups. He expressed concern that none of these groups appeared to have been consulted prior to the pilot scheme progressing.
Subsequently Councillor Gallagher Moved, Councillor O’Reilly Seconded
That that this decision is deferred and a report is brought forward that addresses the list of issues raised at the July Meeting of the Health and Community Committee with regards to Intervention Services.
9 Page 9 An Independent Member of Council referred to a number of campaigns which had adopted varying approaches which had led to considerable confusion in determining requirements in terms of intervention services. He referred to the need for the Pilot scheme to be above reproach and therefore did not believe it could be rolled out until all outstanding issues had been addressed.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping expressed concern at the above proposal. She referred to engagement which had taken place and the considerable work which had been carried out in progressing towards the Pilot Community Crisis Intervention Service going out to procurement. She stated that funding had been the crucial issue and the pilot had not been as intense or extensive as initially proposed. She stated that the process had involved consultation with those agencies in the city concerned with vulnerable individuals. She maintained that the time was now opportune to proceed to procurement and when operational it would be possible to evaluate further and investigate additional funding opportunities.
An Independent Member of Council again referred to the range of issues raised at the July Meeting of the Health and Community Committee none of which had been addressed. He reiterated that a report be prepared addressing these issues prior to proceeding with the procurement exercise. He further reiterated the need to engage with those interested parties in the community in order to ensure the overall success of the service.
A Member of the SDLP grouping endorsed some of the comments made by the previous speaker. He stated that at the July Meeting of the Health and Community Committee he had raised a number of questions and amended the proposed recommendation to include that a report be presented to Committee addressing the issues raised and Members be provided with information around the role of the procurement process and the role of elected members in amending parts of the Pilot Scheme. He said he would have concerns in terms of delaying the entire process and queried if it would be possible to proceed with the procurement of the pilot scheme whilst simultaneously having the issues raised addressed by Officers and the suggested consultation following which an informed decision could be agreed.
10 Page 10 The said Member queried if there were structures within the Task and Finish Group to facilitate attendance by elected representatives and reiterated that the process must be without fault in order to ensure the overall success of the pilot scheme.
The Director of Health and Community stated that in terms of participation within the Task and Finish Group this was essentially an Officer/Health Professional led group. However, as it evolved a project board structure would be established and within this Officers would consider arrangements for engagement with Members. This however, had yet to be defined. She undertook to take on board comments and feedback including the need for Members to be involved in the process. She continued that in terms of the procurement exercise, Council was currently entering summer recess and had not yet published the Notice to Procure and was currently refining the specification and was seeking assurances from its partners within the wider health community that they were satisfied with the specification which was to be included. She stated that as it was a co-designed provision part of the proposal would be for submitters to suggest and identify innovation on theways that the service could be delivered.
The Director of Health and Community further stated that if Members required assistance in terms of understanding some of the details and answers to issues raised previously, she would be willing to facilitate a briefing session to clarify these points in parallel with the procurement process. However, this would be carried out prior to the publication of the procurement notification in order that Members would have time to evaluate the position, if required.
A Member of the DUP grouping said her Party would oppose any delay in the introduction of the Pilot Scheme. She reminded Members that it was only a Pilot Scheme. She stated that it was vital that progress was made and stated that it would be possible to evaluate the situation after six months after the pilot scheme had become operational.
A Member of the Sinn Fein acknowledged that clarification was required on a number of issues and said it had been agreed that these would be addressed at a further Meeting of the Health and Community Committee. However, to delay the process on this basis was misjudged. She stated that Elected Members were not professionals and should be willing to accept advice from experts in this field and proceed accordingly.
11 Page 11 An Independent Member of Council referred to the importance of this service and the need for the process to proceed intact.
A Member of the UUP grouping expressed his support for the Officer’s recommendation and said that the purpose of a Pilot Scheme was surely to evaluate the viability of the project.
An Independent Member of Council referred to the concerns expressed by Campaign groups in the City regarding the lack of clarification and responses they had received regarding the process.
In response to a query from a Member of the SDLP grouping regarding when it was anticipated that the procurement process would begin, the Director of Health and Community stated that in terms of the procurement schedule Council was bound by advertising deadlines and the next was the end of August and this would follow on throughout the cycle in the months going forward. She stated that Council was currently awaiting comment from health practitioners who had been consulted with regard to the specification and this response would determine when the process would begin. She stated however that this would not take place before the end of August.
A Member of the SDLP grouping anticipated that Officers would present their response to the issues raised prior to that date.
The Proposal Moved by Councillor Gallagher, Seconded by Councillor O’Reilly was put the vote and on a show of hands their voting was as follows:
For the Proposal – 4
Against the Proposal – 32.
The Proposal was therefore declared lost.
Arising out of discussion Councillor McGinley requested that the Mayor be replaced by Councillor R McHugh on the Policing and Community Safety Partnership.
Members agreed accordingly.
A Member of the SDLP grouping requested an update on the City of Derry Rugby Club.
12 Page 12 The Director of Health and Community advised that City of Derry Rugby Club had made an application to the Shared Spaces European Project as had Council for a number of projects. All projects were going through the assessment process. Phase I had been completed and Phase II was currently ongoing and this required clarification under the economic appraisal process in order that a recommendation and a scoring could be agreed through the moderation panel. She continued that all of the applications submitted were undergoing the same process and City of Derry Rugby Club had scheduled a meeting of potential interest and partners on Wednesday 26 July and Council would be facilitating this meeting in the Council Offices at Strand Road. She stated that the invitation list was at the discretion of the Rugby Club and they would be presenting the finer details of their business case and presumably seeking responses with regard to partnership engagement.
C230/17 Delegated Authority to the Chief Executive During Summer Recess
The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report a copy of which had been previously circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to seek approval to delegate powers to the Chief Executive (or his nominee) to act on behalf of Council when required to do so, during summer recess.
In relation to 3.2 a Member of the UUP grouping queried if it would not be better that the Chief Executive consult with the most appropriate Members rather than the Committee Chairperson particularly in relation to district electoral areas.
The Chief Executive advised that in consulting with the appropriate Chairperson he would also recommend that consultation take place with the elected Members for the relevant district electoral area, if appropriate.
Subsequently Councillor Reilly Moved, Alderman Kerrigan Seconded and the Council
Resolved that Members approve the delegation of powers to the Chief Executive (or his nominee) to act on behalf of Council when required to do so, during summer recess.
13 Page 13 C231/17 Notice of Motion – Anti-Social Behaviour around Council’s Parks and Recreational Facilities
Councillor Gardiner Moved, Councillor Dobbins Seconded
That this Council seeks to address the rise in anti-social behaviour around the Council’s parks and recreational facilities.
That this is done, by collaborating with the relevant government departments, to engage the additional skills and expertise of youth workers at these venues.
The following amendment was Proposed by Alderman Hussey and Seconded by Alderman Ramsey
That this Council seeks to address the rise in anti- social behaviour around the Council’s parks and recreational facilities.
That this is done, by collaborating with the PSNI and relevant government departments, to engage the additional skills and expertise of youth and community workers at these venues.
The Amendment on being put to the vote was declared carried their voting For - 31, Against – 1, Abstentions 4.
The Amendment became the substantive Motion was put to the vote and declared carried their voting For -31, Against 1, Abstentions 4.
C232/17 Notice of Motion – Funding – Voluntary Sector Organisations.
Councillor Logue requested and Members agreed that her Motion be deferred until following the summer recess.
Open For Information
C233/17 Responses to Motions
The Chief Executive presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He stated that the purpose of the report
14 Page 14 was to advise Members of responses received to Motions previously passed by Council.
Members noted the above information.
C234/17 Seal
The Mayor Moved, the Deputy Mayor Seconded and the Council
Resolved that the Seal of the Council be affixed to the following documents:
Documents to be Sealed on 20 July 2017
Grants of Right of Burial in Ballyoan Cemetery
Mr Yasar Sami, 4 Melvin Court, Waterside, Derry, BT47 6HZ. Mr John McCandless, 12 Knocksilla Park, Omagh, County Tyrone, BT79 0AR. Mrs Ethna McCloskey, 39 Bellview Avenue, Derry, BT48 6TG.
Grants of right of Burial in City Cemetery
Mr Tom Kelly, 44 Hawthorn Hill, Newtowncunningham, County Donegal. Mr Thomas O’Hara, 6 Mulroy Gardens, Creggan, Derry, BT48 9QP. Ms Annette Doherty, 3 Bealachmor Upper, Hazelbank, Derry. Mr Michael Green, 17 Griffiths Park, Derry, BT48 8PE. Mr Liam Barr, 5 Glenwood, Lowry’s Lane, Derry, BT48 0FJ. Mr Hugh McDaid, 32 Moore Street, Derry, BT47 2EY. Mrs Isobel Sheerin, 14 Glendale Road, Derry, BT48 8GJ. Mr Seamus McDaid, 35 Gleneagles, Derry, BT48 7TE. Mrs Maureen Carlin, 8 Owenmore Place, Derry, BT47 6XG.
15 Page 15 Mrs Margo Duddy, 75 Glen Road, Derry, BT48 0BZ. Mr John Gallagher, Flat 15, Enterprise House, 11 Great James Street, Derry, BT48 7BZ. Mr Eamon Moore, 69 Liscloon Drive, Derry, BT48 8HT. Mrs Elly Doherty, 8 Moss Park, Derry, BT48 8JY. Mr Baylon Moore, 69 Whitehouse Park, Derry, BT48 0QA. Ms Jeanette Hutton, 16 Demesne Gardens, Derry, BT48 9NA. Mr Denis Coyle, 77 Bloomfield Park, Galliagh, Derry, BT48 8HD. Mrs Maisie Moore, 67 Academy Road, Derry, BT48 7LA. Mrs Majella Coyle, 45 Cashelmore Park, Derry, BT48 0RW.
Grant of Right of Burial in Ardstraw Burial Ground
Rev Dr W S Magee, 66 Thornlea, Hospital Road, Omagh, Co Tyrone, BT79 0EL
Grants of Right of Burial in Strabane Burial Ground
Ciaran McCready, 15 Newtownkennedy Street, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 8HT Paul Herron, 35 Barrack Street, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 8HD Frank Mc Kinney, 334 Lisnafin Park, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 9DN.
C235/17 Local Government Act (Northern Ireland) 2014 – Confidential Business
The Mayor Moved, the Deputy Mayor Seconded and the Council
Resolved that in accordance with Section 42, Sub Sections (2) or (4) of the Local Government Act (Northern Ireland) 2014, the press and members of the public be asked to withdraw
16 Page 16 whilst the Council discuss the following matters:
(a) Adoption of the Confidential Minutes of the Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held on 22 June 2017; (b) Adoption of the Confidential Minutes of the following Committees: (i) Monthly Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on Tuesday 27 June 2017; (ii) Monthly Planning Committee held on Wednesday 28 June 2017; (iii) Monthly Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 4 July 2017; (iv) Monthly Environment and Regeneration Committee held on Wednesday 5 July 2017; and (v) Monthly Health and Community Committee held on Thursday 6 July 2017.
The Meeting terminated at 6.10 pm
17 Page 17 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 8
Derry City and Strabane District Council
Open Minutes of Special Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council held in the Council Chamber, Guildhall, Derry on Friday 8 September 2017 at 4.00pm. ______
Present:- Councillor McMcHugh (Mayor) (in the Chair), Aldermen Devenney, M Hamilton, Hussey, Kerrigan, McClintock, Ramsey, Thompson and Warke, Councillors Boyle, Campbell, Carr, Cusack, Dobbins, Donnelly, Duffy, Fleming, Gallagher, Gardiner, Hastings, Jackson, C Kelly, D Kelly, P Kelly, Logue, McKnight, McGinley, M McHugh, McKeever, McMahon, O’Reilly, Robinson and Tierney.
In Attendance:- Chief Executive (Mr J Kelpie), Director of Health and Communities (Mrs K McFarland), Director of Business and Culture (Mr S Gillespie), Head of Health and Community Wellbeing (Mr S Donaghy), Head of Environment (Mr C Canning), Head of Community Development and Leisure (Mr B O’Hagan), Lead Finance Officer (Mr A Dallas), Lead Assurance Officer (Mrs D McDonnell), Lead Legal Services Officer (Mr P Kingston) and Committee Services Assistant (Ms N Meehan).
Representing Statutory Agencies: Mr B Doherty, Ms P McNamee and Mr G Fallows (DAERA), Mr C Loughry (Roads) and Mr J McKee (Rivers) (Department for Infrastructure, Mr E Doherty (NIHE), Chief Inspector A Hutton (PSNI), Ms J McCaffrey (Regional Officer) (Local Government Civil Contingencies), Ms L McLaughlin (Red Cross), Ms D Gallagher and Mr M Mailey (NI Water). ______
SC33/17 Notice and Summons for Meeting
The Chief Executive read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.
SC34/17 Apologies
Apologies for absence were received from Alderman R Hamilton and Councillors Hassan, McGuire, R McHugh and Reilly.
Open for Decision
SC35/17 Flooding Incident Response
Page 19 The Mayor welcomed Members, Officers and those representing the various Statutory Agencies to the Meeting. He referred to the fact that two meetings had taken place in the aftermath of the recent flooding to discuss the situation and input by each of the Agencies involved.
The Mayor then referred to and quoted for Members’ information letters of support and commendation which had been received from the Lord Lieutenant Denis Desmond, Balmoral Castle, Dr Angela Garvey Lord Lieutenant.
Denis Desmond Lord Lieutenant
“In my role as Lord Lieutenant of the County I considered it appropriate for me to make a brief report to Buckingham Palace about the unprecedented flooding that occurred two weeks ago in Eglinton and Drumahoe. I attach the letter received from Her Majesty the Queen. I would appreciate if you would share this with Members of Council, the emergency services, local press and anyone else with whom you feel is appropriate. As mentioned I plan to visit both the Eglinton Community Centre and YMCA Drumahoe to enable the message to be posted on their notice boards.
May I also take this opportunity of saying how much I appreciate the manner and speed at which the Council coordinated the response to the flooding. Many people have spoken to me about how much they appreciate the support and help which they received during this extremely difficult period.
If I can be of any further help or assistance please let me know.”
Balmoral Castle
“I was saddened to learn of the devastating flooding which has affected County Londonderry and the surrounding areas. Please convey my sympathy to those who have been affected, and my thanks and appreciation to the volunteers, community workers and members of the emergency services who have been involved in the response.”
Dr Angela Garvey, Lord Lieutenant
“Please convey my thanks to all at Derry City and Strabane District Council for their outstanding response to the recent flooding episode in Eglinton.
Page 20 I saw for myself how the variety of agencies came together in the Community Centre to respond to the needs of the very many families affected. Everyone was treated with great dignity and respect.
I am sure you will continue to ensure ongoing support in the weeks and months ahead.
With kind regards.”
The Chief Executive advised that in accordance with the two previous briefing sessions held during and in the aftermath of the recent flooding it would be appropriate to provide a brief overview of works underway by Council and the Statutory Agencies.
The Chief Executive stated that from a Council perspective the flooding had been prioritised and work was being carried out in relation to domestic properties affected across the areas of Environmental Health, Building Control and Planning. He stated that Officers from a range of Councils across the region had assisted Council in its efforts. He stated that at the height of the flooding sixty Council staff were involved in visiting properties with two hundred additional staff involved in co- ordinating responses and clean-up operations.
The Chief Executive advised that each of the Heads of Service would provide an update on Council’s input and works carried out within Council’s powers.
The Chief Executive then invited a brief update from Council’s Senior Management Team.
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing advised that to date 510 domestic properties had been affected across the City and District. All of these properties had been assessed however, Council continued to receive service requests. He stated that 370 properties were currently eligible for financial assistance under the SEFA scheme.
The Head of Health and community Wellbeing advised that an appeals process existed for anyone who was not eligible and was seeking a second opinion. He continued that during the initial period fifty Council staff were involved in responding to service requests and he expressed his gratitude for the support provided by a number of other
Page 21 Councils who released staff to assist with the assessment of properties under the mutual aid protocol.
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing concluded that Officers would continue to deal with service requests about a range of issues as a result of the flooding and were liaising with various statutory agencies to resolve these.
The Lead Finance Officer said his staff had worked to ensure that those people who were entitled to funding received their money without delay. He advised that during the August Bank Holiday weekend money and cheques were issued to those affected and to date from the 370 deemed eligible 360 had received payment. He stated that Officers had visited properties directly to deliver cheques. He stated that this situation would continue to be prioritised in terms of issuing payment to those eligible claimants.
The Head of Environment advised that to date Officers from his section had provided assistance to ninety eight per cent of those seeking help with only a small number still awaiting assessment. He stated that 350 skips containing 200 tonnes of waste had been collected and this service would continue into the following week.
The Head of Environment advised that whilst there had been a slight disruption the refuse collection service had now resumed in all areas. He stated that street cleansing services had also recommenced and a full service would be operational by the following week. He advised that issues would be dealt with on a case by case basis.
The Head of Environment advised that twenty six Council properties had been impacted by the flooding and these were currently being assessed. Works were ongoing at Tullyally Community Centre which were mainly in relation to electrical and heating. He stated that the Centre had partially reopened and it was hoped that normal operations would resume the following week. He stated that a quote was currently being sought in respect of assessing damage at play areas and open spaces which it was anticipated would conclude the following week.
The Head of Environment advised that the changing rooms at Donemana Community Centre had been condemned and would require replacing at a cost of £100,000. However Donemana Civic Amenity Centre had reopened and a report was awaited in respect of buildings and equipment.
Page 22 The Head of Environment referred to the play area at Plumbridge which would require to be deep cleansed by the contractor. He stated that a considerable amount of damage had been caused to sewers in respect of which it was estimated that repair works would cost approximately £65,000.
The Head of Environment referred to the community association site in Newtownstewart which was operational a report was awaited in respect thereof however regarding electrical equipment. He referred to a number of football pitches throughout the Council area which required remedial works.
The Director of Business and Culture advised that on the Wednesday morning following the flooding Council opened two Incident Centres which became the focal point of the operation. By the Thursday Council was in receipt of assistance from many of the statutory agencies who were also based in the Incident Centres to offer assistance. He advised that a number of donations were received from private sector organisations. These donations included cleaning materials and bedding. Through the coming days as needs grew so did the assistance.
As well as statutory assistance, the local community particularly in Eglinton volunteered and offered tremendous support. He continued that during the initial tend days following the flooding the Centres were operational from 8 am – 10 pm every day including the bank holiday. After the initial ten days the centres were opened from 10 am - 7 pm on the Thursday and Friday and 12 pm – 2 pm Saturday and Sunday. From Monday 4th September the Centres were operating on a normal basis although Officers continue to be available for any assistance and support which was required.
The Director of Business and Culture continued that in Eglinton there was an unprecedented joint approach and it would have been impossible to achieve the outcome without the assistance of all those who were involved. He stated that the Incident Centres would remain a focal point for as long as necessary in order to ensure that as many people as possible receive the support and assistance they require.
The Director of Health and Community advised that her staff had been liaising with Senior Officers from all of the key Departments, DAERA and the Department for Communities to identify issues affecting rural
Page 23 communities. She stated that Officers worked to ensure that a response could be made as quickly as possible in relation to environmental issues and community development. She stated that sports NI had committed to small scale enabling funds for sports clubs affected particularly in relation to soil testing. Additional information in respect thereof would be made available and would be relayed to Members accordingly.
The Head of Community Development and Leisure advised that a community services emergency fund had been created in respect of which nine and a half thousand applications had been received. He stated that £32,000 had been distributed to community groups through the emergency fund as follows:
1. Plumbridge Parish Hall £1,500 2. Northern Ireland Cancer care £1,500 3. Jack and Jill Community Playgroup, Plumbridge £2,500 4. Institute FC £1,000 5. Club United Community Playgroup £1,500 6. Glenelly Development Trust £2,000 7. Ardstraw FC £2,000 8. Derry and Raphoe Action £1,500 9. Charity Shop, Another Chance, Glendermott £2,000 10. Tullyally Community Partnership £2,000 11. Londonderry YMCA £2,500 12. St Eugene’s GAA Newtownstewart £1,000 13. The Drummond Centre Project, Donemana £1,500 14. St Canice’s Church Parish of Faughanvale, Eglinton £2,500 15. Red Hand Defenders “Newtownstewart Flute Band” £1,000 16. John Mitchels GAC Claudy £1,000 17. Eglinton Community Centre £5,000
He advised that work would continue with community organisations to provide support and work would also continue with the rural development team and DAERA to fast track funding for these areas.
The Head of Community Development concluded that a follow up meeting had been scheduled with representatives from the Red Cross the following week in order to determine how Council could continue its support in going forward and pointed out that considerable work was still required with residents and local community groups.
Page 24 The Chief Executive advised that there had been a multi-agency approach which was controlled by Ms Joan McCaffrey, Regional Officer, Local Government Civil Contingencies. He advised that each of the agencies involved had met on a daily basis since the flooding incident until Friday 1 September to assess the situation and progress to date. He concluded that at 4.30 pm on the day of the flooding the emergency was classified scale 2 and this was dealt with by all agencies throughout Northern Ireland and co-ordinated by the Head of the Civil Service.
Members from all Parties commended and applauded the work carried out by Council staff and all of the statutory agencies on their response to the flooding incident and the continued support and assistance which was being made available. They acknowledged the progress to date which was highly commendable given extent of the damage caused and acknowledged that this would not have been achievable without the professional, compassionate and co-ordinated approach which had been adopted.
Members also recognised and commended the input from local communities to assist those in need during this difficult and prolonged situation.
The Chief Executive then invited the representatives from the various statutory agencies in attendance to update Members on the position to date.
Members received Mr B Doherty, Chief Executive and Ms P McNamee and Mr G Fallows, Veterinary, who provided Members with a brief overview of the situation to date concentrating on the following issues:
- Focused on providing practical support to rural communities by liaising with local representatives to gather information on the situation and provide support to those impacted. - Advised that aerial photographic surveys of local farm land had been carried out for the purpose of allocating EU farm payments. - Advised that the Department had received 85 force majeure applications for emergency funding from farmers. - Stated that up to 6,500 hectares of local farmland has been impacted. - Advised that the Department was currently working with EU and representatives to examine the possibility of having a system in place which would allow farmers to receive 70% rather than 50% of
Page 25 the areas based funding which would offer tremendous help with the cash flow and was awaiting a response in relation thereto. - Pointed out that whilst there was no specific scheme in place in respect of flooding were currently considering alternative funding options. - Advised that network advisors were available to provide information where needed together with representatives from the Education Authority. - Were working with LPS to analysis the impact of the flooding. - Advised that the deadline for force majeure applications was pending. - The department continued to encourage farmers to take precautions to prevent further flooding. - Referred to the Fish farm issue in respect of which there was no financial support available. However home visits had taken place to offer advice and support. - Advised that the Department was working with the NIEA carrying out reviews of the Faughan and Mobuoy sites. These were under constant review and sampling analysis would continue and had increased the frequency of monitoring. - Referred to country parks and woods areas wherein some issues had arisen. The Department were on-site to review public access and assessing damage caused to bridges. - Continuing to offer advice and support to Farmers and rural dwellers. - Advised that to date a reported 61000 birds had been lost. - Advised that a 24/7 out of hours support line was in operation. No calls had been received to the out of hours service. - Advised that a bulletin had been issued containing practical advice and guidance on land restoration. - Requested Farmers to contact the Department prior to carrying out any works given the geographical impact. - Advised of the availability of a helpline and to date 13 calls received reporting 325 missing sheep and 8 missing cattle and these were being responded to. - Practical measures had been put in place in respect of the removal of animal by-products. - Referred to extremely poor land conditions leading to difficulties having been experienced in relation to the removal of carcasses. Work in relation thereto would be ongoing as and when conditions were safe. - Would be examining any increase in diseases which might impact on Farmers.
Page 26 - This was an ongoing process but would continue to work and offer support where possible both to Farmers and in terms of animal welfare.
Members raised the following issues:
- Welcomed the assistance given to rural Farmers and the Department’s endeavours to have the area based fund increased from 50% to 70%. - Concern at confusion regarding the relevant individual/agency to be contacted in specific situations. - Concern at the lack of specific emergency funding for Farmers devastated by the floods. - Urged the Department to do all in its power to consider alternative funding options for those Farmers worst affected by the floods. - Some concerns expressed that Departmental officials were not out on the ground meeting with Farmers or endeavouring to identify those Farmers in need of assistance. - Referred to the need for major routes to be reopened in order to permit Farmers to carry out their business. - Referred to the large farming community within the Derry City and Strabane District Council area and enquired if there was any assistance available for those Farmers whose businesses were completely submerged in water. - Enquired as to what extent current schemes could be extended particularly in relation to those farms which were worst affected. - Referred to the tremendous devastation much of which impacted on small Farmers who may not understand protocol. Enquired if the Department had engaged pro-actively with individual Farmers. What had the Department done to assist those Members of the agricultural community who had not attended engagements which had been set up? - Concern expressed that the Department had not been proactive in meeting its clients.
The representatives from DAERA responded as follows:
- Advised that there was no specific individual assigned to deal with the situation but undertook to direct any Members of the public to the appropriate agency. - Advised that the farming community were resilient and had been instrumental in addressing many of the problems which had arisen.
Page 27 - Confirmed that work was ongoing with a number of farmers to ensure the safe removal of carcasses from unacceptable areas and they had proved tenacious in their efforts in this regard. - Whilst acknowledging the scale of the problem stated that unfortunately the Department did not have the power or the financial resources or esteem to provide additional funding outside the current schemes and was constrained by regulations. Advised that work was ongoing with DEFRA and the EU to identify what funding, if any, could be made available. - Referred to the two schemes currently available. - Acknowledged the problems arising from land being submerged in silt. - Explained that it was necessary for silt to dry before it could be removed which given current conditions presented a major problem. - Undertook to do whatever was possible to ensure that schemes were flexible. - Advised that a technical bulletin had been prepared which provided advice from a range of services. - Acknowledged that there would be an increased pressure on animal health and welfare as a result of the incident - Advised that during the previous two weeks meetings had taken place with senior Members of Political Parties and services had been provided in areas frequented by farmers. Advisors were also available in these areas. Acknowledged that there may be a number of smaller farmers who may not be engaging with the Department. - Advised that the Department’s capacity was limited and depended on all of the co-agencies to communicate the message to those concerned. - Assured that the Department had been pro-active in meeting its clients and setting up claims and would endeavour to ensure that all applications were received by the Department.
Members received Mr C Loughrey (Roads Division) and Mr J McKee (Rivers Agency), Department for Infrastructure who provided Members with a brief overview of the situation to date concentrating on the following issues:
- Advised that the key priority was keeping culverts and gullies free from debris and staff were working continuously on this. However, this would take a long period of time. - Advised that over one mile of damage was done to flood defences.
Page 28 - Pointed out that the Department was currently working to replenish stocks of sandbags. - Stated that 1700 metres of damage had been identified. - Pointed out that works were being carried out at the Faughan and Burndennet. - Contractors were on site removing debris from blockages and the removal of trees from watercourses which would continue for some months. - Referred to possibility of feasibility studies being carried out to consider short term measures with Council and the other statutory agencies involved. - The Department was keen to embark on community engagement which it regarded as a useful approach and had participated with DAERA in clinics offering advice to Farmers. - Advised that the flood risk management plan had predicted that Drumahoe, Tullyally and Ivy Meade were at risk of flooding but not of the magnitude which had been experienced. - Referred to the need for flood alleviation measures to be implemented. - Advised that the recent flood was 2 feet higher than the 1987 flood which was considered a major disaster. - Advised that work was continuing to repair roads and bridges using both internal and external contractors. - Pointed out that from the sixty roads which had initially been closed only twenty two remained closed. Twelve of the remaining twenty two were within the Derry City and Strabane District Council area and were located mainly around Drumahoe, Glenelly and Plumbridge. - Stated that the main routes had been prioritised all of which had reopened three days after the flooding incident. The B routes would be addressed next. - Advised that the collapse of the Church Street Claudy Bridge was caused when one of four piers was wiped out by the force of the river causing tow of the five arches to collapse. - Contractors were currently on-site considering options and assessment was ongoing with the possibility of a footbridge being considered to facilitate the community. Discussions had taken place with landowners and agreement had been reached and it was anticipated that this would be operational in the coming weeks. - Advised that the Park and Ride at Drumahoe remained closed. Contractors were currently on site and it was anticipated that it would reopen the following week.
Page 29 - The Department was limited in terms of when works would be carried out at Drumahoe Road. However work was ongoing with Planning and the other agencies involved. However it was anticipated that it would be approximately 4-6 weeks to have the situation resolved. - Concluded that 600 structures within the Derry City and Strabane District Council areas were being inspected.
Members then raised the following points:
- Enquired if there were any plans to bring in additional resources? - Had consideration been given to getting additional support from the Irish Army/military as was the case in Donegal? - Referred to buildings which were structurally unsound in Donemana and Glenelly valley. - Enquired if a thorough structural inspection would be carried out at the bridge in Plumbridge? - Acknowledged that works were being prioritised but referred to the gullies in a number of housing estates in Strabane which were blocked and requested that necessary works be carried out. - Referred to the possibility of co-ordinating a multi-agency approach between Derry and Donegal. - Made specific reference to the need for preventative measures to be put in place to ensure this does not happen again and urged cross border co-operation and further multi-agency working to look at ways in which this could be achieved. - Referred to the impact of the flooding on the Culmore area and the fact that seven families were currently displaced. - Expressed concern that a small roadway at Culmore Point which served six cottages which housed a number of elderly and disabled tenants which had been destroyed by the flooding had been overlooked. - Welcomed the progress to date in relation to the Park and Ride. - Enquired if it was proposed that the Faughan Bridge would be fully operational following the suggested 4-6 weeks in respect of the completion of works? - Referred to major issues regarding safety at the Faughan Bridge as a result of it being used as an alternative route due to road closures in the area. - In terms of community engagement referred to serious concerns expressed by residents of Ivy Meade that this type of disaster could happen again. Referred to the need for preventative measures to be implemented without delay.
Page 30 - Enquired if the clean-up works included the Burn at Ivy Meade. - Enquired if given the scale of the emergency additional contractors could be made available to carry out works at the Park and Ride. - Referred to the need to analyse the situation with a view to implementing necessary preventative measures. - Acknowledged financial cuts across the board and referred to the fact that these cuts were having a significant negative impact. If the necessary funding had been made available the situation could have been avoided and the damage minimised. - Expressed concern at suggestions that the British Army be engaged to assist in the clean-up operation. - Enquired if an audit of all works recently undertaken would be carried out by the Department and the impact of the flooding thereon? - With regard to pre-emptive measures enquired if the Council area referred to related specifically to the former Derry City Council area? - Enquired if the Department were aware that a local GAA Club in Newtownstewart had installed a river banking which had not been granted approval causing a water build up in the surrounding area. This was an area in which previous flooding had occurred. Enquired as to hydrological effect on the surrounding area of this alleged illegal banking. - Queried why the British Army had not been engaged to assist in these works as British people were suffering? - Referred to a number of rivers together with a large pipe which had overflowed in the Rossnagalliagh area of the City. These had overflowed on 3 previous occasions and requested that these be investigated with a view to long term solution being identified. - Enquired if the Department would be examining the cause of the flooding at Muff which was not due to river overflow. - Queried proposals in respect of Claudy Bridge. - Expressed concern regarding safety in respect of diversions which had been created due to necessary road closures in both Eglinton and Drumahoe. In terms of dealing with greatly increased traffic levels and possible impact on drainage.
The representatives from the Department for Infrastructure responded as follows:
- Assured that a thorough inspection of all structural sites would be carried out. - Confirmed that additional resources were being utilised.
Page 31 - Confirmed that only twenty one of the initial sixty roads remained closed. However these required a greater degree of planning and it was not a simply a matter of engaging additional resources. - Advised that the Department had emergency resources which they were using however they were limited in what they could do because of the situation, - Whilst the reopening of Roads was the Department’s priority undertook to investigate blocked gullies in housing estates in Strabane. - Confirmed that there were good cross border links between each of the agencies with information being shared in terms of building risks. However this could be further utilised in the future. - Undertook to investigate the damage caused to the roadway at Culmore Point and report thereon to the said Member. - Confirmed that the damage had been caused to the approach to the Faughan Bridge and not the actual Bridge. - Referred to difficulties arising from the fact that there was a massive co-ordinated exercise to divert additional resources away from the Bridge in order that essential works could be carried out following which the contractor would return and complete the work. It was anticipated that if things went according to plan the Bridge would be fully operational in the suggested 4-6 weeks period. - Confirmed that clean-up works would only be carried out in designated waters which would involve larger rivers. - Advised that the Department would be willing to provide advice sessions in the North West as had been provided in other areas. - Acknowledged public concerns regarding what action should be taken following the issue of a serious weather warning and stated that the Department would share with communities information received in order that they could be made aware which would prove beneficial in the longer term. - Referred to the need for preliminary works to be carried out at the Park and Ride prior to the contractor coming on site. - Confirmed that investigations had been carried out which had identified areas of concern within the Council area. In identifying vulnerable areas this would allow the Department to reinforce the need for necessary preventative works to be carried out in areas of concern which would limit damage in the event of an incident of a similar magnitude. - Confirmed that a thorough inspection of all recent works undertaken had been carried out and pointed out that some of the defects identified following the flooding were due to difficulties in terms of design. Explained that event with the inclusion of a safety
Page 32 net considerable damage would still have been caused due to the force of the flow. - Assured that where identified the Department would endeavour to have all necessary works carried out to ensure greater safety in the event of an incident of a similar scale. - Stated that it was not possible to build your way out of flood risk. - Requested that information regarding any areas of concern be relayed to the Departmental headquarters. - Advised that under the floods directive the Department was obliged to identify flood risk areas and areas within the City had been identified as flood risk. These were the areas where the greatest damage might occur and preventative measures were necessary. - Was unsure of any illegal banking having been erected and requested that any information in relation thereto be forwarded to the Department. - Advised that the engagement of additional resources was a matter for the Department. - Confirmed that the rivers and piping in the Rossnagalliagh area would be included in the Department’s water investigations. Given the flooding history would try to assess the situation with a view to identifying a long-term solution to the problem. - Confirmed that an inspection would be carried out to determine a number of flooding mechanisms in respect of Muff River. - Advised that it was difficult to assess the cost of emergency repair works to be carried out. - Advised that twelve roads in the rural area remained closed. A total of 140 roads were damaged which remained passable. It was necessary to identify funding in respect of repairing these damages. - Advised that there were in total 160 bridges to be inspected. Claudy Bridge was on a B route and was therefore not regarded as a priority. However, it was proposed to install a pedestrian footbridge. - Undertook to investigate diversion routes in terms of dealing with increased traffic levels and drainage.
Members received Mr E Doherty, Northern Ireland Housing Executive who provided Members with a brief overview concentrating on the following issues:
- Advised that following the flooding an immediate emergency was declared by the Housing Executive and additional resources were put in place.
Page 33 - Advised that the Waterside office had operated as an Incident Centre. - Pointed out that staff from Coleraine, Ballymena and Limavady had been appointed to rest centres. - Stated that 55 emergency orders had been issued to contractors. - Advised that contractors had also attended private occupiers to offer assistance. - Stated that 94 Housing Executive properties were affected in total- Waterloo Place 13 properties with minor damage – Waterside 15. Actual 26 – 19 severely. - In relation to progress to date explained that all properties had been cleared out and technical inspections carried out and reinstatement works continued. - Advised that staff had engaged with specialist electrical contractors for all properties including private however 12 still remained without electricity. 44 dehumidifiers had been provided and were aiming to have these works completed by Christmas. - Stated that 58 householders sought assistance and 26 had to be placed in emergency accommodation. 20 of those had since been relocated in hotels and Bed and Breakfasts. - Stated that 46 families had been granted placements in one week. - Advised that apartments at Magee Campus had been secured for some of the families affected however these had to be vacated by 8 September. - Stated that officials had examined the possibility of private rentals however this had not proved successful. - Advised that other social providers had been identified with four housing associations providing 11 properties. As many were left with few belongings these were fully furnished, carpeted and included white goods, beds and bedding, sofas and tables and chairs, homeless packs including kettles, cutlery etc all provided by the Housing Executive. - Pointed out that these were offered and accepted and the sign ups were ongoing. - Pointed out that a number of further properties had been earmarked and were on hold. - Referred to the need for many residents to be housed in the locality where they live for schools and health reasons. - Stated that 11 Mobile homes had been secured to be located on Council owned sites at St Canice’s Park – these had been offered and accepted and were in good condition. An engineer was onsite to carry out necessary works to render it suitable. Work was ongoing with Planning and Roads Division assisting them to
Page 34 expediate this and consultation was ongoing with residents and the feedback was positive. Works would begin the following week. - Advised that a number of other Mobile homes were on standby to be delivered with additional accommodation having been identified in St Columb’s Park House. - Advised that currently only two families remained in emergency accommodation.
Members received Chief Inspector Alan Hutton, PSNI who provided Members with a brief overview concentrating on the following issues:
- Praised the multi-agency response and stated that PSNI had dealt with 191 requests for assistance on the night of the flooding and a further 180 the following day. - There was a significant demand for assistance which meant they had to use local and regional Officers to assist. - The PSNI’s key priority was for health and safety to the public. - Advised that normally his team at Strand Road would deal with 100 calls in a week. - Said it was most fortunate that there was no loss of life. - Applauded the community support which was tremendous. - Following the initial emergency the PSNI’s main focus was on protecting homes vacated by the floods.
Members received Ms L McLaughlin, Red Cross who provided Members with a brief overview concentrating on the following:
- Advised that Red Cross 49 volunteers had operated from the two Incident Centres with a main focus in Eglinton. - Volunteers had visited homes and carried out door to door visits in order to identify need. - Key priority was to provide food and support to those affected and would continue to do so in the coming weeks as people tried to deal with what had happened. - The Red Cross was currently assessing local need.
Members received Ms D Gallagher (Head of Safety and Drinking Water) and Mr M Mailey (Head of Networks) NI Water who provided Members with a brief overview concentrating on the following:
- Advised that the stopping of drinking water extraction at Carmoney on the Faughan for five days resulted in water for the City being pumped from Banagher and Coleraine.
Page 35 - Advised that the pumps at the Water Treatment works were flooded and staff had worked over the August Bank Holiday weekend to carry out necessary repair works and have the pumps back working. - Advised that the river banks had broken. - Assured Members that NIEA and NI Water were working closely to monitor the River Faughan at all points. - The subsequent testing of water at the River Faughan had given no cause for concern. Testing would continue. - Advised that serious damage had been caused to NI Water’s key sites. - Referred to flooding which had occurred at the Faughan pump which was out of use for five days however this was now fully operational. - Advised that the water network had sustained serious damage particularly in terms of infrastructure and bridges. - There was a loss of six water mains. A number of stringers were being used to ensure the network was kept in supply. - Work was ongoing with Transport NI and the other agencies to continue to address the problems which had arisen.
Members received Ms J McCaffrey, Regional Emergency Co-Ordinator, Local Government Civil Contingencies who provided Members with a brief overview concentrating on the following:
- Praised the multi-agency co-ordinated approach and provided an overview of how it was adopted. - Advised that the recovery period continued and all Agencies in attendance had committed to continue their work and would address the issues raised. - Advised that there had been cross border co-ordination and a cross-border emergency group had been established which dealt with cross border areas. - There was a cross-border EU Directive which covered cross-border issues. - Referred to the need to work with OPW. - Advised that the matter would be discussed at the North West Regional Development Group Meeting and activation protocols would be reviewed together with communication on a local basis.
Members then raised the following issues:
- Enquired if the Housing Executive were dealing with non-Executive tenants and with issues within the entire Council area?
Page 36 - Sought assurances that there would be no recurrence of the major traffic issues experienced during the flooding. - Queried the longer term situation for Housing Executive tenants affected by the flooding. - Expressed concern that a representative from Western Care Trust was not in attendance particularly given the emotional impact of the flooding on those affected. Suggested engaging with the Trust in this regard. - Suggested writing to the Secretary of State and the Civil Service seeking financial assistance which would allow reserves to be renewed and the expansion of the financial scheme. - Pointed out that community and voluntary organisations had sustained huge losses. - Suggested that funding be sought for the community and voluntary sector and local businesses. - Concern expressed regarding those affected by the flooding, particularly in Eglinton who did not have insurance. - Referred to the need for dehumidifiers to be made available to assist in drying out properties in Eglinton. - Expressed concern regarding staff in Northern Ireland Housing Executive offices in the Waterside and Strabane not being able to deal with some of the issues being reported. Stated that there was a clear breakdown in communication between the Waterside Office and the Strabane in terms of dealing with queries. - Clarification was sought on the yellow weather warning which had been issued and queried if more could have been done by the Met Office. - Expressed serious concern that the primary ambulance route in Burndennet had been closed for five days. - Made reference to the 1987 flooding in Strabane when the then Secretary of State had visited the area. Suggested that the ~current Secretary of State be invited to visit the City and District to assess the damage caused. Referred to the fact that people had been affected in many different ways however acknowledged that work was ongoing. - Referred to the need for the community and voluntary sector within the Eglinton and Drumahoe areas not to be overlooked. - Referred to the need for lessons to be learned in terms of preventative measures. - Stated that it was incumbent upon all of the agencies involved that wider financial support was made available. - Referred to the possibility of those residents with no insurance availing of the Warm Home Scheme introduced by Council.
Page 37 - Queried if an audit had been carried out of those businesses affected by the flooding and if this would be feasible. - Expressed concern that representatives from the Education Authority were not in attendance particularly given that they had not resolved the ongoing transport situation.
The representatives from the Statutory Agencies responded as follows:
- Confirmed that the Housing Executive had offered assistance to all those affected by the flooding. - Undertook to consider what action could be taken in respect of those residents who did not have insurance. - Undertook to investigate the possibility of providing dehumidifiers to assist in drying out properties. - Acknowledged that many residents did not have insurance and undertook to consider what action could be taken in this regard. - Confirmed that there was one case in which some confusion had arisen in relation to the Housing Executive office in Strabane however, this was swiftly dealt with. - Advised that all Housing Executive staff should had been knowledgeable as all those dealing with the incident had been well informed regarding procedures and the issues in focus. - Referred to the need to reconsider the issuing of a yellow warning and the need for flexibility of approach. Lessons had been learned which would ensure an improvement in response in similar situations. - Confirmed that the issuing of a yellow warning would be included as part of the review.
Following some discussion Councillor Gardiner Moved, Councillor McKeever Seconded
That Council write to the Secretary of State and Senior Civil Servants seeking specific financial assistance in respect of the flooding and requesting that the financial assistance scheme be extended to take account of local voluntary and community sector and small businesses.
A Member of the DUP grouping stated that whilst supporting the above Motion she understood the Secretary of State may not be in a position to respond to this request because there was currently no government in place or direct rule in Northern Ireland. She suggested
Page 38 a possible amendment to the Motion in that Council request that an exception be made for those small community businesses which required special intervention and enquired if there was some mechanism through which Council could consider special measures to provide financial assistance for the small number of community businesses contained within Glendermott Valley Business Park.
The Chief Executive stated that Council was aware that a significant of businesses had been affected but was not aware of the total number. However Council was aware that the number of businesses affected was significant. He referred to the lack of definition between small business, rural business and farming business. He suggested that if Members so wished Officers could explore options however, there was no scheme or policy currently in operation in respect of small businesses. He stated that the multi-agency group had explored at length any opportunity for Senior Civil Servants to sign off on the small businesses most severely affected. However the official response had been negative.
The Chief Executive stated that if the suggested amendment was approved Officers would examine this possibility and bring forward a report thereon. He stated however that Council had no power or authority to take any action at present. He said it would be necessary to consider the extent and cost involved and provide a figure in respect thereof.
A Member of the DUP grouping whilst appreciating the situation, expressed concern that the small community businesses affected would collapse. She requested that Officers explore any way in which assistance could be provided for these small businesses.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping referred to the suggested amendment by a Member of the DIP grouping and stated that whilst there was sympathy for small businesses at this time she felt it would be dangerous to refer to a specific set of businesses when businesses throughout the Council area had been affected.
An Independent Member of Council stated that any amendment should be inclusive.
A Member of the SDLP grouping referred to a request by her Party Leader that a sum of £1,000 be extended to all businesses in the aftermath of the flooding incident. She stated that this would be an
Page 39 immediate interim assistance whilst additional financial assistance was sought. She urged all Party leaders to approve this request.
Alderman McClintock, Councillor Ramsey Seconded
That in the meantime Council for look for a mechanism through which Council can help community businesses.
A Member of the SDLP grouping sought clarification on the term ‘community business’.
A Member of the DUP grouping explained that this was a social enterprise business like those in Glendermott Valley Business Park.
An Independent Member of Council reiterated the need to be inclusive of all.
The Amendment on being put to the vote was declared lost their voting:
For the Amendment – 6 Against the Amendment – 19 Abstentions – 1.
Subsequently Councillor Gardiner Moved, Councillor McKeever Seconded and the Council unanimously
Resolved that Council write to the Secretary of State and Senior Civil Servants seeking specific financial assistance in respect of the flooding and requesting that the financial assistance scheme be extended to take account of local voluntary and community sector and small businesses.
The Meeting terminated at 6.20 pm
Page 40 Agenda Item 9a
Derry City and Strabane District Council
Open Minutes of Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held in the Council Chamber, Guildhall on Tuesday 5 September 2017 at 4.00 pm.
Present:- Councillor Fleming (in the Chair), Aldermen Hussey, Kerrigan, Ramsey, and Thompson, Councillors Boyle, Cooper, Donnelly, C Kelly, McKnight, McMahon and Tierney.
Non-Members of Committee – Alderman M Hamilton, Councillors Carr, P Kelly and O’Reilly.
In Attendance:- Chief Executive (Mr J Kelpie), Director of Environment and Regeneration (Mrs K Phillips), Lead Finance Officer (Mr A Dallas), Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer (Ms E Cavanagh), Business Support and Change Manager (Mrs R Craig) and Committee Services Assistant (Ms N Meehan).
Representing Northern Ireland Housing Executive:- Mr C Bailie (Chief Executive), Mr E Doherty (Area Manager (West), Mr F O’Connor (Regional Director (North) and Mr J Cassidy (Head of Place Shaping – North).
______
GSP120/17 Notice and Summons for Meeting
The Chief Executive read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.
GSP121/17 Members Attendance and Apologies
An apology for absence was received from Councillor Robinson.
GSP122/17 Declarations of Members’ Interests
Councillor Tierney declared an interest in Item 13 – Community Centre Design Fees – as a member of the Shantallow/Galliagh Steering Group.
Open for Decision
GSP123/17 Deputation – Northern Ireland Housing Executive
1 Page 41 The Chairperson welcomed representatives from th Northern Ireland Housing Executive to the Meeting and invited Mr C Bailie, Chief Executive and Mr E Doherty, Area Manager – West to give the presentation on the Housing Investment Plan.
Members from all Parties welcomed the representatives from the Housing Executive to the Meeting. They thanked Mr Bailie and Mr Doherty for their presentation and commended them on its content. Members praised the work carried out by local staff and applauded them on their hard work and commitment.
Members then raised the following issues:
- Referred to the 92 dwellings proposed for Strabane and 15 for the rural area and queried if any plans were in place for other areas such as Ballymagorry? - Queried plans for new Housing Executive stock in Strabane. - Queried how many of the 690 proposed new dwellings within the Council area would be located in the Strabane area. - Described as shameful the fact that only two of the new properties built were located in the Strabane area particularly given that housing need was the same in both areas. - Expressed concern that the figures presented in respect of waiting lists and housing stress/homelessness did not accurately reflect the actual situation throughout the Council district. - Concern expressed that those individuals who had secured temporary accommodation were not allocated the additional 20 points by NIHE which were allotted to individuals allocated temporary accommodation by NIHE. These additional points were essential to those customers involved in the housing selection process. - Enquired as to the rationale regarding the non-allocation of points to those individuals on waiting lists who had secured temporary alternative accommodation which resulted in them being penalised for their efforts. - Referred to the need for a common approach to be adopted by the Housing Executive and the Department of Communities in addressing the issue of housing stress.
2 Page 42 - Acknowledged the significance of funding in determining the programme of works in respect of the next five years and whilst welcoming the projected figures in respect thereof expressed concern that these monies were insufficient and would have little impact on addressing the homelessness problem which exists throughout the Derry City and Strabane District Council area. - Expressed concern at the lack of provision of bungalow type accommodation particularly given the growing ageing population and those suffering from ill health who would benefit from this type of accommodation. - Explained that by reallocating many elderly residents currently occupying larger 3-4 bedroom dwellings to more suitable bungalow type accommodation this would ultimately free-up much needed accommodation for larger family units. - Expressed concern that the lack of bungalow provision was mainly due to financial incentives and the fact that greater rental costs could be procured from town house type accommodation. - Referred to those tenants with disabilities or suffering ill-health requiring bungalow type accommodation which was not available within the current housing stock and stated that this was totally unacceptable. - Suggested that Housing Associations were opposed to the provision of bungalow type accommodation as this was not deemed cost effective in terms of land availability. - Reinforced the need for this crisis situation to be addressed by the Department of Communities and the Housing Executive hierarchy jointly. - Expressed concern that there appeared to have been little improvement in the situation during the past 25-30 years with possibly something of a deterioration. - Expressed concern at the lack of provision in rural areas in Strabane and the surrounding area and queried if it would be possible to produce figures in respect of the number of properties built and housing need for specific areas. - Referred to the fact that many of those on Housing Executive waiting lists tended to make application in respect of areas where they felt housing would be most readily available and not necessarily in preferred areas. - Referred to the issue of critical mass which did not apply in the rural area.
3 Page 43 - Referred to the need for the requirements of rural dwellers to be taken on board. - Enquired as to what impact the recent flooding would have on the Housing Executive’s plans in terms of moving forward and on those who had not been impacted by the weather - Enquired if specific funding had been guaranteed in respect of damage caused to Housing Executive properties by the recent floods which would ensure that the current limited programme of works would proceed as planned - Referred to the huge availability of two-bedroom properties in the Council area which he acknowledged was due to an overall lack of space but expressed concern that these did not tend to offer long- term provision for growing families. - Described the current homelessness situation as dire. - Referred to the increasing numbers on waiting lists and expressed concern that the Housing Investment Plan offered little hope for those most affected. - Referred to the need for a fundamental change in policy regarding the activities of the Housing Executive in terms of new builds and borrowing. The ongoing problems could not be resolved unless the situation was addressed. - Expressed concern that tenants who were in employment were being discriminated against because landlords did not favour a joint payment system from DHSS/resident. - Expressed concern at the challenges facing those with no dependants in terms of securing social housing having to opt instead for the private rental sector. This must not be overlooked in terms of building communities. - Expressed concern that many tenants with serious disabilities were being allocated properties which were not suitable for their requirements. - Referred to the fact that this housing crisis was impacting negatively on people’s health and wellbeing. - Expressed serious concern that the current housing programme would deliver only fifty percent of the required two and a half thousand dwellings required during the next five year period. - Requested figures on the number of vacant properties throughout the City and District. - Expressed concern that the homelessness situation would continue to worsen.
4 Page 44 - Enquired if problems were being experienced in terms of funding in respect of properties in need of adapting for medical needs and the contractors involved. - Referred to an appeal by the Housing Executive for new Landlords following the recent flooding and enquired if these would be retained to address future problems. - Enquired if guarantees had been forthcoming from central government that the Housing Executive would be reimbursed any costs incurred in responding to the recent flooding incident
Mr. Bailie welcomed Members comments and their appreciation for the work carried out by his colleagues in the local offices. He referred to the excellent efforts by his colleagues particularly in the Eglinton area following the recent floods. The Housing Executive representatives responded as follows:
- Explained that the Housing Executive were committed to meeting the needs of its tenants and did not overlook the requirements of tenants residing in rural areas. Given the small number of housing developments it was basically about economies of scale and there was a rural strategy which was updated on a regular basis. - Advised that there had been two new builds in the Strabane area during the previous twelve months and five were currently on-site. Habinteg were also working to secure an additional site and it was anticipated that this would be secured in the near future. - Advised that efforts were being made to secure a site in the Strabane area which would have capacity for 180 dwellings. - Undertook to provide figures relating to new build in the Strabane area in the past three years. - Acknowledged Members concerns regarding the supply of new social housing and the enormous gap which remained. In many instances the problem was exacerbated due to the lack of availability of suitable land. - Acknowledged Members concerns regarding the lack of bungalow type accommodation which was ongoing. However, the Department had indicated that this was not the best use of land and land could be used more effectively. - Acknowledged that bungalows were an attractive choice for elderly residents and those with disabilities.
5 Page 45 - Acknowledged that as residents aged their current accommodation was no longer suitable. - Acknowledged difficulties with contractors in carrying out necessary works to adapt properties for medical requirements. Advised that the Housing Executive’s Disabled Facilities Grant was still available for making adaptations to properties. - Undertook to examine the possibility of using off-site construction to improve quality of lives. - Acknowledged that the response to urgent calls must be addressed with a view to introducing a standardised system. - Acknowledged that the points system did appear unfair on those individuals who had secured alternative temporary accommodation. However, it would require a legislative change to permit the Housing Executive to award points in such instances. Undertook to consider the situation. - Undertook to provide figures in respect of development in the Faughan, Sperrins and Derg areas. - Confirmed that Housing Executive staff had worked extremely hard following the recent flooding and advised that they were part of a multi-agency task force set up to address the problem. - Referred to a recent conference on flood resilience which dealt with forward planning. However difficulties would arise when planning for flooding on such an unprecedented scale. - Advised that Housing Executive staff had been working hard in those areas where the greatest damage was caused to provide temporary accommodation for those worst affected. - Advised that figures were not available in respect of the cost of dealing with the recent flooding. However this would be budgeted from the Executive’s emergency funding budget. - Advised that the issue regarding the availability of two bedroom properties was a matter for Officers from Planning. - Whilst acknowledging the significant number of two build properties explained that over 50% of Housing Executive waiting lists were made up of single persons which largely dictated the new building programme. - Acknowledged comments regarding the need for fundamental change but stated that this was due to Departmental legislation surrounding the activities of the Executive. - Explained that properties were normally allocated to individuals who had accumulated 200 points. However, there were significant
6 Page 46 numbers who had only accumulated 90-100 points but were classified as homeless and there was no apparent solution available in such instances. Advised that the Housing Executive were currently undergoing an internal review on how to address such situations. - Advised that the Housing Executive were endeavouring to adopt a new approach in respect of addressing homelessness. It was anticipated that a more productive approach would be adopted. - Acknowledged the need to improve linkages with all of the support services and advised that an intensive support programme was being undertaken. The Housing Executive were putting their resources into the City and bringing together all areas of expertise in an endeavour to provide preventative measures for those currently with an accumulated 90/100 points. It was anticipated that this process would begin post September and advised that additional information would be forthcoming in respect thereof in due course. - Anticipated that information would be made available regarding legislation and the new approach being adopted in terms of addressing the issue of homelessness. - Advised that there were a substantial number of investigations ongoing throughout Northern Ireland regarding vacant properties and with a Fraud Department in Belfast which had greater powers to investigate such allegations of fraud. The Housing Executive would welcome information regarding any properties which it was felt were being used illegally and would investigate accordingly and report back thereon in terms of progress. - Explained that immediately following the recent flooding 55 families reported to the Housing Executive, 28 of whom required emergency accommodation who were initially placed in Hotels and Bed and Breakfast accommodation. Only a few private Landlords had responded to requests for accommodation in the private rental sector. In terms of providing permanent temporary accommodation 20 of the 28 families requiring accommodation had since been moved to other alternative temporary accommodation. Only 4 Landlords had been retained on the Housing Executive system. - Difficulties had been experienced in trying to house tenants in the Cityside given that the bulk of the damage was caused in the Waterside area. However 12 apartments had been secured from the
7 Page 47 University of Ulster at the Magee Campus and these would be considered as a possible resource in moving forward. - Explained that the Housing Executive were conscious of ensuring that the figures presented in relation to waiting lists and homelessness were accurate and reflected the situation. Acknowledged however that there may be an issue in terms of hidden data. - Advised that the Housing Executive were currently exploring new ways of addressing the situation such as discussing with customers their requirements and expectations. It may be necessary on occasion to advise that it was unlikely that accommodation would be made available for a considerable period of time and enquire if they could consider as an option the private rental sector. Referred to the need to consider how the private rental sector could be made a more attractive option. - Expressed concern at suggestions that the situation had deteriorated in the past number of years and confirmed that funding had been identified in order to improve the quality of existing Housing Executive stock. - Referred to a lack of funding due to the fact that rents had been frozen which had resulted in a significant loss to the Executive combined with the fact that central government had been unable to provide sufficient monies to enable the Executive to carry out all of the works which were required. - Reiterated the need to examine how the structures of the Housing Executive could be changed to enable it to borrow without rendering it a Housing Association and to rebuild, when this posed the better option than trying to retain old stock. - Confirmed that guarantees had not been forthcoming regarding the reimbursement of monies spent on addressing the flooding incident. However the Housing Executive did have a resource facility for the monies required to address the flooding which would allow them to continue with their programme of works without any adverse effects.
Members thanked the Housing Executive representatives and they withdrew from the Meeting.
Chairperson’s Business
8 Page 48 GSP124/17 Flooding Incident
The Chairperson referred to the devastation caused by the recent flooding incident and advised that a Special Council Meeting had been scheduled for Friday, 8 September 2017 to discuss the matter further with the relevant Statutory Agencies.
GSP125/17 Condemnation
The Chairperson condemned those responsible for the recent attacks which caused a security alert in Lettershandoney and Oeghill Park which resulted in residents having had to be evacuated from their homes. However he applauded the community spirit following this attack.
GSP126/17 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee held on Tuesday 27 June 2017
The open Minutes of Meeting held on 27 June 2017 (GSP96/17 – GSP115/17) were confirmed and signed by the Chairperson.
Matter Arising from Minutes
GSP127/17 Confirmation of Members to External and Internal Bodies 2017/18 (Ref GSP103/17)
Councillor McKnight requested that Councillor McGinley replace Councillor McCallion on the Transitional Community Planning Partnership.
Members agreed accordingly.
In response to a query from a Member of the UUP grouping, the Chief Executive confirmed that representatives from the Education Authority would address the October Meeting of the Committee.
GSP128/17 Three Month Financial Out-Turn
The Lead Finance Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated to Members. He advised that the
9 Page 49 purpose of the report was for Members to consider and approve Council’s 3 month financial outturn and position at 30 June 2017.
The Lead Finance Officer added that despite the positive position, Quarter 2 has been very challenging for Council with the recent flooding events. Council properties have been damaged, some of which due to their nature would not have been covered by insurance. Officers are currently scoping the total financial impact and liaising with insurers and a report would be brought back to Members in due course.
The Committee
Recommended that Members approve the 3 month financial position and note the surplus of £411k generated for the first 3 months of the 2017/18 financial year.
GSP129/17 Annual Performance Report
The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated to Members. She advised that the purpose of the report was to invite Members’ consideration and approval of the Annual Performance Report 2016/17.
The Committee
Recommended that subject to Members’ comments, to approve for publication, the Annual Performance Report 2016/17, attached at Appendix 1.
GSP130/17 Association of Public Service Excellence - Pilot Executive Board
The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to update Members on the
10 Page 50 outcomes of the APSE NI Region AGM and to seek an Elected Member nomination on the Pilot Executive Board for APSE NI Region.
Councillor McMahon Proposed, Councillor McKnight Seconded
That Councillor C Kelly be nominated to sit on the pilot APSE Executive Board.
Subsequently Alderman Thompson Proposed, Alderman Ramsey Seconded
That Alderman Hussey be nominated to sit on the pilot APSE Executive Board.
A lengthy discussion ensued on the most appropriate system of voting in such instances, during which a short adjournment took place.
Subsequently the Committee
Recommended that Coucillor P Kelly be nominated to sit on the pilot APSE Executive Board and Alderman Hussey be nominated as a reserve if required.
GSP131/17 Policy on Producing Information
The Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to present for Members’ consideration and approval Derry City and Strabane District Council’s revised Policy on Producing Information.
The Committee
Recommended that Members approve the draft of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Policy of Practice on Producing Information.
GSP132/17 Local Democracy Week
11 Page 51 The Lead Democratic and Improvement Services Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to inform Members of Local Democracy Week 2017, to encourage the participation of all Members and to seek Members’ approval on budget allocation and the draft programme.
Members from all Parties welcomed the forthcoming Local Democracy Week which was described as a worthwhile and interactive event.
An Independent Member of Council who was a non-Member of the Committee welcomed Local Democracy Week. He stated that it was encouraging to receive young people into the Council Chamber. He expressed concern that some of the events had to be cancelled the previous year because logistically it had not been possible to proceed. He encouraged Members’ attendance at this event.
A Member of the UUP grouping expressed concern that the three key events had been scheduled to take place in the Guildhall. He said he would have welcomed the staging of one of the events in a venue in the Strabane area given that it represented one third of the electorate.
A Member of the SDLP grouping stated that whilst he would encourage greater participation throughout the City and district he was aware of difficulties in attracting young people from across the wider area and in particular the rural area. He welcomed the use of the Guildhall for staging the events given its historic relevance and the centre of Council’s decision making process.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping said it would be remiss of Members not to get involved in this event and engage with young people to determine their views.
The Committee
Recommended that all elected Members (where practical), get involved in Local Democracy Week 2017 and that Members adopt the proposed programme and budget allocation of
12 Page 52 £2,500 from the Members’ Training and Development budget.
Open for Information
GSP133/17 Community Centre Design Fees
The Lead Finance Officer presented the above report, a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to advise Members of approval given by the Chief Executive under delegated authority during summer recess in the sum of £54,875 for the extension of design fees required to complete RIBA Stage 4 for the Top of the Hill, Shantallow, Galliagh and Lincoln Courts community centres. The approval was provided following a briefing to the Capital Projects and Corporate Programme Planning Group held on 25 July 2017 in advance of the summer recess.
In response to a query from a Member of the DUP grouping, the Lead Finance Officer confirmed that the figure of £54,875 contained in the second column of the final row of the report should read £54,375.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the approval given by the Chief Executive under delegated authority during summer recess in the sum of £54,375 for the extension of design fees required to complete RIBA Stage 4 for the Top of the Hill, Shantallow, Galliagh and Lincoln Courts community centres.
The Meeting terminated at 5.50 pm
13 Page 53 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 9b
Derry City and Strabane District Council
Open Minutes of Planning Committee held in the Council Chamber, Guildhall, Derry on Wednesday 6 September 2017 at 2.00pm. ______
Present:- Councillor D Kelly(Chairperson), Aldermen Bresland, M Hamilton, Kerrigan, McClintock; Councillors Boyle, Dobbins, Gardiner, Hassan, Hastings, Jackson, Logue, McGuire and R McHugh
In Attendance:- Director of Environment & Regeneration (Mrs K Phillips), Head of Planning (Ms M Fox), Principal Planning Officer (Mrs S McCracken) Principal Planning Officer (Acting), (Mrs A McNee), Principal Planning Officer (Mr P McCaughey), Lead Legal Services Officer (Mr P Kingston), Planning Officers: (Mrs R McMenamin, Ms L Coyle, Mr K Donaghey, Ms A Moyne, Mr J Duffy and Mr C Rodgers)
Planning Administrator (Mrs C Corry), Committee Services Assistants (Mrs J Short and Mrs T Johnstone).
______
P121/17 Notice and Summons for Meeting
The Head of Planning read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.
P122/17 Member Attendance and Apologies
The Head of Planning carried out the role call and no apologies were given.
P123/17 Declaration of Members’ Interests
Alderman McClintock declared an interest in planning application for decision: LA11/2016/0355/F & LA11/2016/0363/LBC.
Open for Decision
P124/17 Deputations (none)
There were no deputations.
Page 55 2
P125/17 Chairperson’s Business
The Chair welcomed the Members back following the recess period. He referred to the recent flood that affected the District and acknowledged the role of Members and staff in assisting the people during the state of emergency particularly in the City and surrounding areas.
The Chair handed over to the Head of Planning who proceeded to update Members on late information received in relation to the following planning applications presented under Agenda Item 8 - Planning Applications List with Recommendation for Decision:
Application 1 – A2013/0507/F Application 4 – J/2012/0069/F Application 5 – LA11/2016/0964/F Application 8 – LA11/2016/0326/F Application 11 – LA11/2015/0110/F Application 13 – LA11/2016/0541/O Application 15 – LA11/2016/0869/F Application 16 – A/2011/0516/F
The Head of Planning also reported that in relation to Application 24: LA11/2016/0988/F a request was received from the Agent to defer the application on the basis of revised information and this was a decision that Members could consider when the application is presented by the Planning Officer later in the meeting.
Members noted that the following applications were deferred and would be presented at a future meeting. Head of Planning advised that further information was submitted and evidence of engagement with Road Service forwarded and as a result, advisable to defer case to await outcome. Head of Planning also recommended as a result of the flood event on 22 August, that item 6 be deferred in order to review position with Rivers Agency. The Chair gave Members the opportunity to discuss if any other cases may have required further consideration as a result of the flooding event. Following discussion items 6 and 10 were alwo requested for deferral in order to review the proposal with the Rivers Agencyand the applications would be fast tracked and presented at the next Planning Committee meeting:
Page 56 3
Application 4 – J/2012/0069/F Application 6 – LA11/2015/0759/F Application 10 – J/2010/0481/F Application 16 – A/2011/0516/F Application 17 – LA11/2015/0651/F
Members noted that Application 21: LA11/2015/0689/F had been withdrawn by the applicant.
P126/17 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Planning Committee held on Wednesday 28 June 2017
The Open Minutes of the Planning Committee meeting held on 28 June 2017 (P96/17-P118/17) were agreed and signed by the Chairperson.
P127/17 Matters Arising
There were no matters arising from the Minutes.
The Chair permitted a 20 minute recess to allow Members the opportunity to review the late information received.
P128/17 Planning Application List with Recommendation for Decision
The Planning Officers proceeded to present the following planning applications with recommendation for decision by Members:
Reconsidered Applications
A/2013/0507/F – Application vary Condition 6 of A/1996/0505 and Condition 5 of A/2001/0098/RM to allow Mixed Retailing at Unit 4 Crescent Link Retail Park, Waterside
The Principal Planning Officer presented the above application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An overview on the current position of the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to refuse planning permission.
Mr Andrew Stephens addressed the Committee in objection to the application.
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Mr Andrew Ryan addressed the Committee in support of the application.
Councillor Dobbins joined the meeting at this stage.
A Member of the SDLP grouping referred to the City Centre first approach which in her opinion was going to be mitigated if the application was approved. She added that the vision for the city has to be the retention of existing shops within the city centre and not to encourage retail parks to replace city centre businesses.
A Member of the DUP grouping commented that although she agreed on the retention of businesses within the City Centre she would have concerns about the Crescent Link site becoming vacated similar to the City Centre and it was important to protect the existing businesses already located at the site and to counteract empty units.
A Member of the SF grouping commented that it was important for a balance to be struck so to sustain existing jobs and to introduce new job opportunities that the Crescent Link Retail park will offer the city.
A Member of the SDLP grouping commented that if the application was allowed then there was the risk of a potential precedent and there was the danger of encouraging other retailers to locate outside the city centre.
The Legal Services Officer reminded Committee that only those Members who attended the Pre-Determination Hearing on 13 June 2017 were permitted to vote on the proposal.
A Member of the SDLP grouping moved, seconded by another Member of the SDLP grouping to support the recommendation to refuse planning permission.
The outcome of the vote: For, 2, Against 6, Abstention 0. The proposal fell.
A Member of the SDLP grouping questioned the Head of Legal Services regarding planning reasons for overturn.
The Head of Legal Services advised the reason was already outlined in previous occasions.
Page 58 5
A Member of the SF grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the UUP grouping to overturn the recommendation to refuse planning permission, subject to the conditions as outlined within the report in particular Condition No. 12.1 (Appendix 1).
The outcome of the vote: For, 6, Against 2. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that planning application A/2013/0507/F be approved planning permission subject to the conditions as outlined within the report.
LA11/2016/0777/F – Proposed dwelling and detached domestic garage on lands approx. 60m NE of 13 Trienamongan Road, Castlederg
The Principal Planning Officer presented the above application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An overview of the application was provided and subsequent to consideration following the Planning Committee on 28 June 2017, approval was recommended subject to the conditions as outlined within the report.
A Member of the SF grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the SDLP grouping to support the recommendation to approve planning permission subject to the conditions as outlined within the report.
The outcome of the vote: unanimous support of the proposal.
The Committee
Resolved that planning application LA11/2016/0777/F be approved planning permission subject to the conditions as outlined within the report.
LA11/2015/0476/F – Proposed agricultural store to house farm equipment on lands 160m SW of 22 Baronscourt Road, Newtownstewart
Page 59 6
The Principal Planning Officer presented the above application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The Planning Officer explained that the application was presented to the Planning Committee on 3 May 2017 with a recommendation to refuse. Following assessment of the additional information requested it was considered that the principle issues had still not been satisfactorily addressed and therefore refusal was recommended for the same reasons presented on 3 May 2017, as outlined within the report.
Discussion ensued after which a Member of the SDLP grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the SF grouping to support the recommendation to refuse planning permission for reasons as outlined within the report.
The outcome of the vote: For 9, Against 3, Abstention 2. The proposal ` was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that planning application LA11/2015/0476/F be refused planning permission for reasons as outlined within the report.
J/2012/0069/F – Service road development linking 13 Derry Road with Ingleside Drive including a mini roundabout on the Derry Road on lands at 13 Derry Road, Strabane
The above planning application was deferred for decision and would be presented at a future meeting.
LA11/2016/0964/F – Proposed change of use from retail to unit for gaming machines at 33 William Street, Derry
The Principal Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An overview of the current position of the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to approve planning permission subject to the conditions as outlined within the report.
Page 60 7
Mr Declan McLaughlin addressed the Committee in objection to the above application.
Mr Ciaran Devlin, Agent addressed the Committee in support of the application.
A Member of the SDLP grouping expressed concern that an approval of the application would result in a potential increase of this type of business within the locality.
The Principal Planning Officer clarified for the Chair that the planning policy prohibited the significant loss of retail frontage and this would not be the case. The floor space of 120m there was no indication of the number of gaming machines. She further clarified that the report was amended following the previous Committee meeting to consider the planning reasons presented by Members, whereby Committee agreed for the application to be deferred for further consideration. The reasons for refusal were included if Members were minded to refuse planning permission.
Discussion ensued after which a Member of the SF grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the SDLP grouping not to support the recommendation to approve planning permission as the proposal was contrary to SPPS and DCAN 1, amenity and character of the area.
The outcome of the vote: For 12, Against 1, Abstention 1. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that planning application LA11/2016/0964/F be refused planning permission as per the reasons outlined.
LA11/2015/0759/F – Proposed alterations to existing public house to include new side access door, ramp, new smoking area and proposed single storey building adjacent to public house for internal BBQ area at 21 Drumahoe Road, Derry
The above planning application was deferred for decision and would be presented at a future meeting.
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A/2014/0538/F – 20 No. pitches for touring motor homes, caravans or tents to include electric hook ups at 49 Upper Galliagh Road, Derry
The Principal Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An overview of the current position of the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to approve planning permission subject to the revised conditions as outlined within the report.
A Member of the SDLP grouping moved, seconded by another Member of the SDLP grouping to support the recommendation to approve planning permission subject to the conditions as outlined within the report. The outcome of the vote was unanimous support of the proposal.
The Committee
Resolved that planning application A/2014/0538/F be approved planning permission subject to the conditions as outlined within the report.
Applications Returned to Committee Following Site Inspections
LA11/2016/0326/F – Proposed conversion of 3 and a half storey building consisting of 4 apartments into 10 bed HMO at 15 Lawrence Hill, L’Derry
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to approve planning permission.
Ms Kay McGinn addressed the Committee in objection to the recommendation to approve planning permission.
Discussion ensued after which the Principal Planning Officer clarified for Members that student occupancy was only used as a scenario in this particular application. She further clarified that the car parking was
Page 62 9
zoned for consideration in the Derry Area Plan and there was no requirement under Section 75 for disabled access for private development and this could be raised if Members so wished.
A Member of the DUP grouping commented on the beauty of Lawrence Hill and expressed concern that the properties would not be purchased for families if this type of accommodation was allowed to become available as a HMO.
A Member of the SF grouping stated that it was a difficult decision in light of concerns raised by the residents. However the demand for this type of accommodation had to be considered and there was a balance to be reached to protect the character of the area and to ensure the properties do not become vacant.
Discussion ensued after which a Member of the SF grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the SDLP grouping not to accept the recommendation to approve planning permission due to the impact on residential amenity and contrary to PPS3.
The outcome of the vote: For 13, Against 0, Abstention 1. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that the officers recommendation on LA11/2016/0326/F is not accepted on the grounds of residential amenity on lack of parking.
LA11/2017/0065/F – Change of use from family house to house in multiple occupation (10 bedrooms), 30 Lawrence Hill, Derry, BT48 7NJ
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to approve planning permission.
Ms Kay McGinn addressed the Committee with objections to the approval.
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Discussion ensued after which a Member of the SDLP grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping not to accept the recommendation to approve planning permission due to pre-existing car parking problem that impacted the area.
The outcome of the vote: For 13, Against 0, Abstentions 1. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that the officers recommendation on LA11/2017/0065/F is not accepted on the grounds of residential amenity and lack of parking.
J/2010/0481/F – Planning permission to erect six wind turbines with an overall height from ground to blade tip of 111m, 33kv substation and compound, construction of internal site tracks and associated works and ancillary works, access points on the Glenmornan Road and the relocation of the temporary turbine supply compound – FEI AMENDED PROPOSAL – includes the relocation of internal access tracks, reduction in turbine numbers from nine to six and the relocation of two turbines at Townland of Craignagapple approx. 650m west of Legalougha Bridge and approx. 200m east of Owenmore Bridge 8.5km east of Strabane
The above planning application was deferred for decision and would be presented at a future meeting
LA11/2015/0110/F – Remove 3 existing glazing panels and install an ATM through the shop front left hand window pane. The original glazing panel will be replaced with a new black laminate infill panel incorporating the ATM fascia, the remaining glazed panels will be replaced with frosted glass at 113 Melmount Road, Sion Mills.
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to refuse planning permission.
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Discussion ensued after which a Member of the SDLP grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the DUP grouping to support the Planning Officer’s recommendation to refuse planning permission.
The outcome of the vote; For 11, Against 0, Abstentions 3. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that planning application LA11/2015/0110/F be refused planning permission for reasons as outlined within the report.
LA11/2016/0649/O – New dwelling (ridge height 7.5m) and domestic garage at Lands between No 11 & 13 Berryhill Road, Ballymagorry, Strabane
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to refuse planning permission.
Ms Aisling Devine addressed the Committee in objection to the refusal.
Discussion ensued after which a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the DUP grouping to overturn the recommendation by Officers on the grounds that Members had a different interpretation of application CTY8 (PPS21).
The outcome of the vote; For 13, Against 0, Abstentions 1. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that the Planning Officers recommendation on LA11/2016/0649/O is not accepted as Members had a different interpretation of CTY8 of PPS21
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and the proposal does represent infill and meets CTY8 and CTY1 of PPS21.
LA11/2016/0541/O – Infill dwelling on lands between 34 & 32 Letterkenny Road, Derry
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to refuse planning permission.
Ms Carol McIlvar (Agent) addressed the Committee in support of the application.
A Member of the DUP grouping stated that whilst she acknowledged the Planning Officers professional opinion it was felt that the application should be categorized as an infill site and therefore would meet Policy CTY8 of PPS21.
A Member of the DUP grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping to overturn the recommendation by Officers and for planning permission to be granted.
The outcome of the vote; For 12, Against 0, Abstentions 2. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that the Officers recommendation on LA11/2016/0541/O is not accepted as Members had a different interpretation of CTY8 of PPS21 and the proposal does represent infill and meets CTY8 and CTY1 of PPS21.
LA11/2016/1006/O – Dwelling on lands adjacent to 177A Glenshane Road, Londonderry
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the
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background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to refuse planning permission.
A Member of the DUP grouping stated that she had found the site visit helpful and could see no reason why the permission had been refused as the site had a cluster of dwellings.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping stated that after attending the site visit she found the area on the application difficult to determine. She added that if the recommendations by the Officers was overturned a precedent would be set.
The Head of Planning advised Members tha the policy required all the tests of CTY2A to be met.
A lengthy discussion ensued after which a Member of the DUP grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping to overturn the recommendation by Officers on the basis that it was part of the consolidation of the existing cluster.
The outcome of the vote; For 6, Against 4, Abstentions 4. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that the Officer’s recommendation on LA11/2016/1006/O is not accepted on the grounds that the application met the criteria of consolidation of the existing cluster.
LA11/2016/0869/F – Retention of temporary marketing Suite for Taggart Homes major housing development site, Crescent Link (removal after 3 year period)
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to refuse planning permission.
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Mr Matt Kennedy (Agent) addressed the Committee in support of the application.
The Principal Planning Officer clarified an issue regarding temporary conditions, retrospective issues and vacancy issues and referred to the GDO with regards to temporary buildings.
Discussion ensued after which a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the SDLP grouping to support the Planning Officer’s recommendation to refuse planning permission.
The outcome of the vote; For 6, Against 2, Abstentions 5. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that the recommendation to refuse planning application LA11/2016/0869/F be supported for reasons as outlined within the report.
NEW APPLICATIONS
A/2011/0516/F – To develop a microhydro electricity generating renewable energy system (5kw) on the adjoining stream on the outskirts of Park, Claudy. Electricity generated will be exported to the grid at Turbine house 50m north west of 10 Altinure Road, Park, Claudy. Intake structure 330m south east of Turbine House
The above planning application was deferred for decision and would be presented at a future meeting.
LA11/2015/0651/F – Construction of a 2 No. turbine extension to the existing Monnaboy Wind farm (consented under planning reg. ref A/2009/0868/F), each turbine will have a hub height not exceeding 80m and blade diameter not exceeding 82.4m associated access tracks, underground cabling, temporary construction compound, associated works and use of the existing passing bays along the Monnaboy Road and the Dunlade Road at Monnaboy Wind Farm on land located east of 62 Monnaboy Road, Greysteel, Co Londonderry.
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The above planning application was deferred for decision and would be presented at a future meeting
LA11/2015/0362/F – Retention of 9 no detached dwellings at former sites 16-29 Glenview Manor, Strabane
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to approve planning permission.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the SDLP grouping to support the Planning Officer’s recommendation to approve planning permission.
The outcome of the vote was unanimous support of the proposal.
The Committee
Resolved to support the recommendation to approve planning application LA11/2015/0362/F subject to the conditions as outlined within the report.
LA11/2016/1022/F – Application for erection of 16 No. dwellings (Change of House Types) comprising of 4 No. semi-detached gable units and 12 No semi-detached units from previous 2 No. semi- detached, 2 No. terrace of three units and 1 No. terrace of 6 units (amended house type) at Lands adjacent to No 78 Copperthorpe, off Fincarin Road, Waterside within designated housing zone H25 and comprising partial built Phase 3 Copperthorpe development
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to approve planning permission.
A Member of the SDLP grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the DUP grouping to support the Planning Officer’s recommendation to approve planning permission.
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The outcome of the vote; For 9, Against 0, Abstentions 1. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that that recommendation to approve application LA11/2016/1022/F be supported subject to the conditions as outlined within the report.
J/2014/0248/F – Proposed domestic dwelling on lands 35m north east of 31 Barron Road, Donemana, Strabane
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to refuse planning permission.
Mr Tom Buchanan (MLA) addressed the committee in support of the application.
A Member of the SDLP grouping proposed, seconded by a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping that the recommendation be deferred to allow further consultation with the Environmental Health Section to ascertain if mitigating measures could be considered regarding noise management.
The outcome of the vote was unanimous support of the proposal.
The Committee
Resolved that planning application LA11/2014/0248/F be deferred to allow for further consultation with the Environmental Health Section regarding noise management. The application would be presented at a future Committee Meeting.
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LA11/2015/0689/F – Replacement 2 storey house and attached domestic garage at 71 Meendamph Road, Altshane, Dunamanagh
The above application was withdrawn by the applicant.
LA11/2016/0355/F & LA11/2016/0363/LBC – Change of use of 1st and second floor vacant museum space to create six apartments and all associated works at Unit 5, Waterside Centre, 23 Glendermott Road, Londonderry
The Planning Officer presented the above planning applications details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to approve planning permission.
Alderman McClintock expressed a declaration of interest with the above application.
The Chair welcomed the creation of additional housing as the enhancement of the local communities were key priorities of Council’s Community Plan and the Local Development Plan.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping proposed, seconded by a Member of the DUP grouping to support the recommendation to approve planning permission.
The outcome of the vote was unanimous support of the proposal.
The Committee
Resolved that planning application (a) LA11/2016/0355/F and (b) LA11/2016/0363/LBC be approved planning permission subject to the conditions outlined in the report.
LA11/2016/0482/O – Proposed site for dwelling and domestic garage. Dwelling/site within existing established cluster on lands adjacent to No. 74 Clooney Road, Campsie, Derry, BT47 3PB
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the
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background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to refuse planning permission.
The Lead Legal Services Officer advised Members with regard to the industrial zoning in DAP 2011.
Discussion ensued after which a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the SDLP grouping to uphold the recommendation to refuse planning permission as the development would result in the loss of zoned industrial land designated in that area.
The outcome of the vote: For 6, Against 1, Abstentions 3. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that planning application LA11/2016/0482/F be refused planning permission for reasons as outlined within the report.
LA11/2016/0988/F – Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of 3 detached dwellings and associated site works. Dwellings single storey to front and 2 storey to rear on lands at 7 Prehen Park, L’Derry
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to refuse planning permission.
The Principal Planning Officer advised that a request had been made in the late representation to amend the scheme. However, no plans or details had been submitted for assessment.
Discussion ensued after which a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the SDLP grouping to accept the recommendation to refuse planning permission as per the reasons outlined in the Officer’s report.
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The outcome of the vote: For 9, Against 0, Abstentions 1. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that the recommendation to refuse planning application LA11/2016/0988/F be accepted for reasons as outlined within the report.
LA11/2017/0190/F – Retention of change of use from factory to leisure and community facility and change of use from factory to form extension to same at Glenaden Arena, Units 4 & 6 Altnagelvin Industrial Estate, L’Derry
The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to approve planning permission.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the DUP grouping to accept the recommendation to approve planning permission.
The outcome of the vote: For 9, Against 0, Abstentions 1. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that the Planning Officer’s recommendation to approve planning application LA11/2017/0190/F be accepted subject to the conditions as outlined within the report.
LA11/2016/0232/O – Redevelopment of former derelict school house site to provide residential housing development and associated works on Lands between No’s 1 & 7 Fir Road, Ballyarnett, L’Derry
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The Planning Officer presented the above planning application details of which had been previously circulated to Members. An update on the background to the application was provided and based on material consideration and in line with Planning Policy it was recommended to approve planning permission.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping moved, seconded by a Member of the SDLP grouping to accept the recommendation to approve planning permission.
The outcome of the vote: For 8, Against 0, Abstentions 1. The proposal was carried.
The Committee
Resolved that the recommendation to approve planning application LA11/2016/0232/O be supported subject to the conditions as outlined within the report.
P129/17 Consultation from DFI in relation to Planning Application LA10/2015/0292/F – Doraville Wind Farm west of Draperstown/ north of Broughderg adjacent to B47
The Principal Planning Officer (Acting) presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to members. The purpose of the report was to appraise Members of the receipt of a consultation letter from the Department for Infrastructure (DFI) to DCSDC dated 7 August 2017.
The purpose of the letter was to consult the Council regarding an amended application and Further Environmental Information from SSE Renewables Developments (UK) Ltd for the erection of 33 wind turbines located in the Fermanagh and Omagh Council area. It was recommended that Council note the contents of the draft letter and agree for a response to be forwarded to DFI. Members were advised of an email received on 5 September 2017 from a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping which had been circulated to Members.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping stated that the change in tip height from 140m to 149m metres would have a significant impact on
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the Sperrins. He referred to a previous item on the agenda where the installation of five small turbines had made it practically sterile.
The Chair stated that the letter to DfI should reflect the comments contained in the email. He also stated that the section of the draft response was unacceptable particularly in light of the recent weather events in the area:
‘Derry City and Strabane District Council note that the visual impact of the Wind Farm from Glenelly Road is minimal, however, the visual impact of the Wind Farm would increase to the north of Glenelly Road on rising land towards the more mountainous areas.’
He reported that the Glenelly Valley had been devastated by the recent flooding and it was not a stable landscape for this type of industrialisation. He also stated that LCA29, The Sperrins would be impacted as projects by Environment and Regeneration were coming through in conjunction with the Countryside and Access Officer regarding mountain walkways. He further stated that the recent flooding had caused loss of farms, roads, infrastructure and livestock in this highly sensitive area.
He added that there had been considerable opposition to the plans and a previous consultation response objecting to the proposal in the previous Strabane Council had been submitted last year which should be fully supported as there could be shadow flicker impacts on local properties.
The Committee
Recommended that the draft response to DFI Strategic Planning Division be amended to reflect comments raised by Members.
Open for Information
P130/17 Appeals Update
The Principal Planning Officer presented the above report a copy of which had been previously circulated to Members. She advised that the purpose of the report was to appraise Members on Planning
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Appeals currently in the system. A background table was provided showing the current status of any live appeals and any decisions made since the previous month.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the update on the appeals.
P131/17 Cross-boundary issues for the LDP: Sperrins Forum
The Principal Planning Officer presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to advise Members that a Discussion Paper had been received from Mid Ulster District Council regarding cross-boundary issues (mainly within Sperrin AONB) to be considered in the respective Local Development Plans (LDPs). The second meeting of the Sperrins Forum, to discuss such issues will take place on Thursday 21st September 2017 in Magherafelt and 2 – 3 Councillors and Officials are invited to attend.
Discussion ensued after which it was agreed that Councillor’s McGuire and Boyle would represent Council on the Sperrins Forum together with the Head of Planning.
The Committee
Recommended that Council considers the above report and Councillor’s McGuire and Boyle together with the Head of Planning would represent Council on the Sperrins Forum and attend the event on 21st September 2017 in Magherafelt
P132/17 NI Planning Statistics 2016/17 – Development Management Performance Update
The Head of Planning presented the above report a copy of which was previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to advise Members that on 29 June 2017, the Department for Infrastructure Northern Ireland Planning Statistics – 2016/17 Annual
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Statistical Bulletin was released and can be accessed at the following link:
https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland- planning-statistics-april-2016-march-2017
The Committee
Recommended that Council notes for information the above report
P133/17 List of Decisions Issued – July & August 2017
The above report was presented for information to Members.
A Member of the SDLP grouping referred to planning application LA11/2017/0598/F wherein an objection had been submitted and queried if the application would be brought back to Committee for consideration. The Head of Planning clarified that a minimum of five objections was required in order for the application to be returned to Committee for decision.
The Committee
Recommended that Council notes for information the List of Decision issued during the months of July and August 2017
The Meeting ended at 9.10pm
Signed: ______Chairperson
Date: ______
Page 77 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 9c
Derry City and Strabane District Council
Open Minutes of Business and Culture Committee Meeting held in the Council Chamber, Derry Road, Strabane on Tuesday 12 September 2017 at 4.00pm.
______
Present:- Alderman Hussey (Deputy Chairperson); Aldermen R Hamilton, Ramsey and Warke, Councillor’s Boyle, Cooper, Cusack, Fleming, McKnight, McMahon and Reilly.
In Attendance:- Director of Business and Culture (Mr S Gillespie), Head of Culture (Ms A McCarter), Head of Business (Mr K O’Connor), Legacy Officer (Mrs O McGillion) and Committee Services Assistant (Ms N Meehan).
Non-Committee Member: Alderman Devenney.
______
BC160/17 Notice and Summons for Meeting
The Director of Business and Culture read the Notice and Summons for the meeting.
BC161/17 Member Attendance and Apologies
Apologies were received from Councillors Logue and McGuire.
BC162/17 Election of Acting Chairperson
As the Chairperson Councillor Logue was not in attendance it was agreed that the Deputy Chairperson, Alderman Hussey be nominated to the position of Acting Chairperson for the duration of the Meeting.
BC163/17 Declarations of Members’ Interests
Alderman Ramsey, Councillors Boyle, McKnight and Reilly expressed an interest in Item 20 – Peace IV Tenders – as members of the Peace IV Forum.
BC164/17 Deputations
There were no deputations.
Page 79 Open for Decision
BC165/17 Chairperson’s Business
The Acting Chairperson commended the leading role adopted by Council Officers during the recent flooding. He sought a brief update from the Director of Business and Culture on the position to date.
The Director of Business and Culture stated that his Department were involved in all aspects relating to the flooding response. He stated that he had attended meetings with statutory agencies and the Senior Leadership Team to address all of the issues which had arisen. He stated that all senior staff had been involved in operating the two incident centres at Eglinton and the YMCA premises at Drumahoe for an initial ten day period including the bank holiday and beyond. He stated that the shifts at the centre operated from 8 am–2 pm and 3 pm –10 pm and were manned by senior staff.
The Director of Business and Culture advised that Officers had worked closely with the statutory agencies and the local community to ensure all issues could be dealt with as soon as possible. He stated that the centres had now returned to normal operations but that support would continue and queries would be dealt with for those affected. He stated that staff had worked additional hours and with a number having returned from holidays to cover the crisis
Members from all Parties commended the work carried out by Council officers and thanked them for their commitment.
A Member of the DUP grouping referred to a major problem which still existed at St Canice’s Park and Dunverne Gardens in Eglinton regarding individuals who had been left homeless being rehoused. He expressed concern that the mobile homes which the Housing Executive had undertaken to provide to address the homelessness problem had not yet been delivered and enquired as to when it was anticipated these would be onsite. He also referred to a number of properties whose tenants did not have insurance which remained without electricity and heating. He also expressed concern that many would not be meeting with their insurance company representatives until the following weekend. He referred to the need for the process to be further advanced.
Page 80 The Acting Chairperson explained that the siting of the mobile homes was a planning issue. He continued that planning was an autonomous body and suggested that the matter be raised at the next meeting of the Planning Committee.
An Independent Member of Council referred to a number of individuals who were still experiencing difficulties. He acknowledged that this was a long term situation and issues would continue to arise for a considerable period of time. He pointed out that the siting of the mobile homes would be addressed through the planning process. He urged Officers to take whatever action possible to advance the process.
The said Member expressed concern that a yellow warning had been issued in respect of that day’s weather and he understood that Council and the various agencies had been proactive in ensuring that the most vulnerable were prepared and commended them on their hard work and efforts in this regard.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping said there was a genuine feeling that Council staff and the voluntary agencies together with the community and voluntary sectors had acted beyond the call of duty in responding to the devastation caused. He stated that the impact of the floods would have a long-term impact.
A Member of the DUP grouping expressed concern at the delay in meeting those whose business had been damaged during the flooding. He understood a Meeting had been arranged for the following day three weeks following the floods.
The Head of Business advised that the Business Team had been in contact with a number of businesses two weeks previously including Glendermott Valley Business Park and discussions were ongoing. He advised that the purpose of the following days meeting was to update businesses regarding ongoing discussions with LPS regarding rates relief and offer assistance in terms of completing applications forms. He acknowledged that there may be a number of businesses who had not been contactable however every effort had been made to communicate with those affected.
The Head of Business advised that the Business Team had compiled a list of available properties which businesses could avail of. He acknowledged that a number of businesses were localised and would not wish to relocate outside their area. This was a matter for individual
Page 81 businesses to address. He also referred to difficulties which might arise with landlords when endeavouring to agree a short-term lease.
BC166/17 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Business and Culture Committee held on Tuesday 4 July 2017
The Open Minutes of the Business and Culture Committee Meeting held on 4 July 2017 (BC136/17-BC157/17) were agreed and signed by the Chairperson.
BC167/17 Matters Arising
BC168/17 Off-Street Car Parking Management and Enforcement Arrangements (BC141/17)
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping referred to anti-social behaviour occurring at a car park in Dock Street, Strabane. He said this was a small car park which seldom opened in the evening. He requested that Officers investigate the situation with the possibility of having a padlock installed on the gates of the car park to prevent young people gaining access.
The Head of Business undertook to investigate the matter and report thereon in due course.
In response to a query from a Member of the SDLP grouping, the Head of Business stated that in relation to a specific query regarding anti- social behaviour the PSNI had no record of any such incidents in the car park at Spencer Road or in any of the City centre car parks. He stated that in relation to the provision of CCTV costings had been compiled and these would be presented to the October Meeting of the Committee in terms of value for money. He continued that this would prove an extremely expensive initiative and said he would be willing to explore any alternative measures which might be identified.
BC169/17 Christmas 2017 – Programming and Marketing Development
The Head of Culture presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to update Members on programming and marketing development for Christmas 2017.
Page 82 A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping welcomed the programme of events. He welcomed the recommended £3,000 grant from the overall Christmas budget to be awarded to each of the five neighbourhood renewal areas. He stated that the Strabane Christmas fare had benefited from this the previous year and hopefully it would also benefit in 2017.
In response to a query from a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping the Head of Culture explained that discussions had taken place regarding the possibility of extending the Wonder Windows scheme to derelict properties in Strabane and this would be further considered. She stated that this had been advanced in the City through City Centre Initiative. She reiterated that discussions were ongoing regarding the possibility of reiterating this scheme in Strabane.
A Member of the SDLP grouping welcomed the extended Christmas Programme of Events.
The Acting Chairperson referred to the fact that the suggested grant of £1,000 to be given to communities in Castlederg, Newtownstewart and Sion Mills had been ongoing for some time and requested that this be reviewed and updated in compliance with other funding initiatives.
The Committee
Recommended that Members approve the programming and marketing development for Christmas 2017 as outlined in the report.
BC170/17 Digital Government Conference 2017
The Head of Business presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval for the sponsorship of the Agenda NI Digital Government Conference 2017.
In response to a query from a Member of the SDLP grouping the Head of Business advised that the general public could register for the Conference at Agenda NI’s website. He stated that the Conference would attract people from outside the City and district and confirmed that accommodation providers throughout the City and district would benefit from the visitor numbers. In addition Agenda NI had booked
Page 83 the City Hotel, the Guildhall and a local restaurant to stage events associated with the Conference for those attending.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping enquired if there were any plans to upgrade Council’s online service and website.
The Head of Business advised that Council had established a Digital Customer Engagement Group to determine how Council could offer more services online. Council was also in the process of carrying out an audit and review to ascertain which services could be offered online. They would also be reviewing resources to in order to make this become a reality. He stated that a report thereon would be presented to the Committee prior to the end of the year.
The Committee
Recommended that Members approve the sponsorship of the Digital Government Conference as outlined in Section 4.1.
BC171/17 FMF and Clipper 2017-2018 Stopover.
The Head of Culture presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to update Members regarding the planning and programme development for the Foyle Maritime Festival 2018 and seek approval for Officers to move forward with the procurement processes required.
Members welcomed the above report and raised the following points:
- Referred to the economic benefits the FMF and Clipper event brought to the City. - Urged the private sector to become involved in the sponsorship of the event particularly given the benefits to be derived from visitor numbers to the City. - Anticipated that this would become an annual event for the City. - Referred to the fact that this was a well-established event in the City. - In relation to the application to TNI for £190,000 and queried if this was potentially not what Council might expect to receive and would Council be expected to meet a possible shortfall? - Referred to the possible financial implications for Council if the funding from TNI was not forthcoming.
Page 84 - Expressed concern that TNI had funded other festivals of this scale across Northern Ireland. - Expressed concern at the lack of certainty surrounding TNI’s commitment for this flagship event for the City. - Referred to the possibility of securing funding for Tourism Ireland given the clear cross benefits to be derived from this event.
The Head of Culture confirmed that there was a potential shortfall and Council was working closely with TNI and seeking alternative sponsorship. She stated that Officers were working hard to ensure that there would not be a shortfall bearing in mind the timelines provided by TNI. She said it was anticipated that the funding process would open in November 2017 following which a report updating Members on the position would be presented to a future Meeting of the Committee.
The Head of Culture confirmed that Council was working closely with Tourism Ireland in terms of marketing the festival however, they did not have a dedicated fund for events of this nature. They were working with the team in terms of marketing the festival.
In response to a query from a Member of the SDLP grouping, the Head of Culture confirmed that specific events programmes contained details of Councils entire programme of events.
In response to a query from the Acting Chairperson, the Head of Culture confirmed that other cities had staged the Clipper event in four consecutive years.
The Committee
Recommended that Members approve programming, financial and procurement arrangements as set out above to facilitate the planning and programme development of the Foyle Maritime Festival 2018.
BC172/17 Sperrins Future Search Event: ‘Reaching New Heights, Realising Our Potential’ – Nomination of Two Members
The Director of Business and Culture presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose
Page 85 of the report was to select two Members to represent Derry City and Strabane District Council at the Sperrins Future Search event. The event was scheduled to take place from 10.30 am on Wednesday 27th September 2017 until 2.00 pm on Friday 29th September 2017. The venue was Glenavon House Hotel, Glenavon.
The Committee
Recommended that the Deputy Chairperson, Alderman Hussey and Councillor McGuire be nominated to represent Council at the Sperrins Future Search event as outlined above.
BC173/17 Pedal Perks
The Director of Business and Culture presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to inform Members’ of a new cyclist loyalty scheme planned to be launched Council-wide in September 2017.
Page 86 The Committee
Recommended that Members endorse and help to promote the above scheme.
BC174/17 European Capital of Culture 2023 (ECoC)
The Director of Legacy presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to provide Members with an update on the development of the joint bid with Belfast City Council to become European Capital of Culture 2023.
The Director of Legacy then drew attention to the following issues:
- The team had now engaged with seven and a half thousand people and it was anticipated that it would meet its 10,000 target by 27 October 2017. - Business engagement events had been planned for 29 October in both Belfast and Derry. - It was anticipated that all citizens would become involved in the next stage of engagement and the bid process. - There were a number of digital platforms. - Encouraged Members to communicate the message through social media platforms. - Advised that stage two was critical because at that stage there would be little room for manoeuvre. - The risks involved were being constantly reviewed and a report thereon would be presented to Member when available. - Advised that the Capital and Corporate Working Group would provide an update the following day with an outline of the final bid being presented to a Special Meeting of the Committee scheduled for 22 September 2017.
Members then raised the following points:
- Congratulated the team involved in getting to this stage. - Suggested replicating the approach adopted during the 2013 City of Culture bid which had proved in terms of those areas who did no usually engage in cultural activity. - Confident that sufficient work had been carried out to progress to stage two.
Page 87 - Referred to the need to exercise caution when discussing the bid given that any disclosure could compromise the unique bidding position. - Referred to the provisional budget of £51 million which it was felt was favourable given the £26 million spent on the City of Culture in 2013. - Commended the Director of Legacy and her team on their hard work and efforts in reaching this stage. - Supported the approach being adopted in involving the general public and allowing them to design and establish the bid. Acknowledged from 2013 City of Culture bid that public participation delivered the best outcome. - Looked forward to the Special Meeting scheduled for September 22 when an outline of the final bid would be presented. - Acknowledged the clear partnership approach in delivering the final bid.
In response to a query from a Member of the DUP grouping, the Director of Legacy advised that engagement had taken place with all age groups including senior citizens and young children. The team had also engaged with students from the North West College and the University of Ulster and Section 75 groups. All networks were being used in an effort to get the information into the public domain.
In response to a query from the Acting Chairperson, the Director of Legacy explained the work in respect of the bid was being carried out jointly in partnership with Belfast City Council however the title would be awarded to one City.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the developments of the joint bid to become European Capital of Culture 2023 and agreed to participate in the Elected Members Workshop on 12th September.
BC175/17 Vacancy Report on Commercial Properties
The Head of Business presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to provide Members with an update on the current vacancies within Derry City Centre.
Page 88 Members raised the following points:
- Whilst acknowledging changes in purchasing trends expressed concern that the empty business rates relief presented a more important issue for people setting up a business. - Expressed concern that the empty business rates relief scheme had been suspended most probably due to the fact that the Executive at Stormont was currently not operating. - Suggested writing to the Senior Civil Servant requesting that the empty business rates relief scheme be extended.
The Head of Business referred to the need for work to be carried out in relation to the non-domestic rates policy. He stated that Council areas which had higher levels of deprivation were unfairly disadvantaged. He referred to the need to examine how Council could influence policy in order to help alleviate the problem.
The following points were raised by Members:
- Pointed out that the empty business rates relief scheme had ceased to exist prior to the collapse of the Stormont Executive. - Referred to the excellent work carried out by the former Finance Minister in relation to rates relief and suggested that his proposals be re-examined in terms of moving forward and progressing this issue. - Referred to the major success of initiatives adopted by traders in the Waterloo Street area. - Referred to a number of organisations set up to offer technical advice and assistance to local traders. - Acknowledged that many traders did not possess the necessary technical expertise and referred to the need to encourage local traders to develop online strategies. - Referred to the fact that some local traders were receiving 70%-80% income from online trading. - Referred to a number of groups who could be exploited in the pursuit of the required techniques and technical expertise to ensure successful online trading. - Confident that the necessary building blocks were in place to achieve success and it was now necessary to spread awareness amongst local traders.
Page 89 - Advised that civil servants could continue to progress the far reaching proposals established by the former Finance Minister in relation to rates relief. - Enquired if there were similar initiatives for Strabane traders? - Enquired if this initiative could be extended to businesses in the rural area? - Referred to the fact that the best initiative would be for the Stormont Executive to be back in operation. - Referred to the fact that there had been a 30% increase in tourism and markets which could be contributed to online business. - Referred to the fact that a lot of businesses operated from home and marketing their business presented a major issue. - Local markets were a major tourist attraction.
The Head of Business referred to an audit and a survey carried out by CCI and inspections carried out in Strabane. He stated that the initiatives were district wide and were not specific to location and were available to all businesses. Advised that these initiatives were available throughout the Council area and district.
Subsequently the Committee
Recommended (a) that Members noted the contents of the report and give approval for Officers to further scope out the development of the City Start Up Programme with Belfast City Council;
(b) that Council write to the Senior Civil Servant in the Department of Finance requesting (i) an extension of the empty rooms rates relief scheme and investigate if there area any other schemes available which would improve investment in the City and District; and (ii) investigate the possibility of progressing proposals put forward by the former Minister for Finance in relation to Rates Relief.
Page 90 BC176/17 Annual Translational Medicine Conference
The Head of Business presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to inform Members of the 8th Annual Translational Medicine (TMED8) Conference taking place on 20th and 21st September 2017, City Hotel, Derry-Londonderry and make Members aware of the support provided for TMED8 by Derry City and Strabane District Council.
Members noted the content of the above report.
BC177/17 Archaeology Day
The Head of Culture presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to inform Members about this year’s Archaeology Day which took place on Saturday 8th July 2017 in the Tower Museum.
Members noted the content of the above report.
BC178/17 East Coast USA Trade and Investment Mission Update
The Head of Business presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to provide Members with an update of planning and preparations for an East Coast USA Trade and Investment Mission in November 2017.
Members noted the content of the above report.
BC179/17 Guildhall Organ Festival
The Head of Culture presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to highlight the upcoming Organ Festival to be held in the Guildhall from 19th – 21st October. The event is an opportunity to further promote the Guildhall and organ to both local communities and visitors to the city and district.
Members noted the content of the above report.
Page 91 BC180/17 Guildhall Craft Fair
The Head of Culture presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. She stated that the purpose of the report was to update Members on the status of the Guildhall Craft Fair 2017.
Members noted the content of the above report.
BC181/17 Peace IV Tenders
The Head of Business presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He stated that the purpose of the report was to inform Members of the tender process for three tenders which have been approved by delegated authority in August as part of the implementation of the Peace IV Local Action Plan.
Members noted the content of the above report.
The Meeting went into confidential business.
The Meeting terminated at 5.55pm
Page 92 Agenda Item 9d
Derry City and Strabane District Council
Open Minutes of Environment and Regeneration Committee held in the Council Chamber, Guildhall, Derry on Wednesday, 13 September, 2017 at 4.00 pm
______
Present:- Councillor Dobbins (in the Chair), Aldermen Bresland, Hussey, Ramsey and Warke; Councillors Campbell, Duffy, Hassan, Hastings, C Kelly, D Kelly, R McHugh, Reilly and Tierney.
Non-Members of Committee – Alderman Devenney and Councillors Carr, Donnelly, Gallagher, O’Reilly and Robinson.
In Attendance:- Director of Environment and Regeneration (Mrs K Phillips), Head of Environment (Mr C Canning), Head of Capital Development and Building Control (Mr F Morrison), Principal Planning Officer (Mr P McCaughey), Planning Officer (Ms Joanne Doherty) and Committee Services Assistant (Mrs T Johnstone).
Representing Dalradian Gold Ltd: Mr B Kelly, Mr Stephen Barnes, Mr Greg Hope and Mr Stephen McKenna.
Representing Northern Ireland Environment Agency: Dr T Kearney.
______
ER163/17 Notice and Summons for Meeting
The Director of Environment and Regeneration read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.
ER164/17 Apologies
There were no apologies.
ER165/17 Declarations of Members’ Interests
Councillor Reilly declared an interest in the following agenda item: Agenda item 10 – APSE Energy
Councillor Campbell declared an interest in the following agenda item: Agenda item 25 – Live Here Love Here Application
1 Page 93 Alderman Hussey declared an interest in the following agenda item: Agenda item 4 – Dalradian Ltd via Londonderry Port and Harbour
Councillor D Kelly declared an interest in the following agenda item: Agenda item 20 – Bryson Energy.
Councillor C Kelly declared an interest in the following agenda item: Agenda item 10 – APSE Energy
Councillor Duffy declared an interest in the following agenda item: Agenda item 10 – APSE Energy
ER166/17 Deputation - Dalradian Gold Ltd
The Chair welcomed Mr Brian Kelly, Mr Stephen Barnes, Mr Greg Hope and Mr Peter McKenna, Dalradian Gold Ltd and invited them to make their presentation to the Committee.
Mr Kelly proceeded to deliver the presentation highlighting the following:
Dalradian Gold Ltd were a mineral exploration company They have been exploring in Northern Ireland since 2010 The Licence Application Framework Geochemical analysis undertaken by Dalradian Different types of sampling carried out Regulations regarding permitted development Proposed work programmes List of mineral projects in Ireland and the UK
A Member of the DUP grouping thank Mr Kelly for his presentation commenting that he had made the proposal to invite Dalradian Ltd to the Chamber to explain the work being carried out by the company. He stated that concerns had been raised regarding poisoning and the destruction of land. He further stated that the DUP had no issue with the company’s exploration work at this time however, there was a responsibility as councillors to protect constituents. He added that the mining could bring 24,000 jobs with £1billion of investment to the area and would welcome work carried out in a safe manner which created inward investment.
2 Page 94 In response, Mr Kelly stated that to relay a proper explanation of the exploration and extraction processes was not feasible in a ten minute presentation and invited Members to visit the site and view the planning application process at their offices in Omagh.
Independent Members of Council thanked Mr Kelly for his presentation and raised the following concerns regarding the proposed plans:
- The lack of environmental impact assessments - Contamination fears for the surrounding water and air - The visual impact on the area of the Sperrin Mountains - The use of cyanide at the site - The adverse impact on farming, fishing and tourism in the area - The proposals had created division in the community - The use of explosives - The quality of drinking water after the cleansing process - The transport of orr from Greencastle shipped out from Lisahally Port for analysis - The impact of flooding on waste lagoons at Greencastle.
In response, Mr Kelly stated that Dalradian Gold Ltd worked under strict regulations with their need for the use of explosives being very low with no complaints regarding carrying out blasting work. He further stated the company was compliant with the planning rules and that cyanide was not currently present in their work but it may be a factor in the future. He added that water emerging from the cleansing process would exceed drinking water standards and that lagoons were dug into the rock to prevent any overflow or bursting of banks.
Mr Kelly explained that he understood the community had very strong views on work being carried out by the company and were aware they will not satisfy 100 percent of the people. He confirmed that minerals had been moved to the United States from the Derry port at Lisahally with the removal of 40,000 tonnes.
A Member of the SDLP grouping thanked Mr Kelly for his presentation to address the concerns being raised by the public and the call for a public enquiry to give everyone an opportunity to become involved in a transparent process. He added that he it would be useful to accept the offer to visit the site to gain additional information.
A non-committee Independent Member of Council stated that the mining operation was purely for greed and profit. He further stated
3 Page 95 there was a need for gold mining to take place however, as a republican, it was a violation of Irish sovereignty against the proclamation that the people of Ireland have ownership of Ireland and that the mining project was the plunder and theft of Irish resources.
In response, Mr Kelly stated that he was aware that a lot of people had strong views on mining in the area and the company had facilitated community and school visits to give people more information and answer questions.
A further non-committee Independent Member of Council stated that gold mining required the use of an enormous amount of water and there was evidence of a stream which had dried up due to mining activity. He enquired if Northern Ireland water were supplying Dalradian Gold Ltd with water for their exploration process.
In response, Mr Kelly stated that the majority of water used in the mining process was taken from an underground source which was captured and stored in fresh water ponds.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping stated that he had attended the meeting when the request had been submitted to invite Dalradian Ltd to make a presentation and did not recall the discussion being limited to the licensing aspects but also the use of cyanide in the Sperrin area as there were fears expressed and this was the rationale behind the presentation from Dalradian Ltd. He referred to the constrictoins around the presentation and enquired as to who put them in place as Members had been keen to have a much broader discussion with Dalradian. He added that he was disappointed by the strictures and that a further presentation was required outlining planned proposals. In relation to licensing, he referred to DG3, DG4 and DG5 which were substantially within the Derry City and Strabane District Council area, and enquired what the company’s plans were regarding future development within the Council area. He enquired if the company were familiar with Council’s corporate view from the consultation on permitted development contained in the Preferred Options Paper for the development plan that it is possible that permitted development rights would cease to exist. He added that in the absence of being able to discuss the cyanide process at the plant, he does not think that an operational plant of that size would be suitable in a rural area but instead zoned industrial land. The Director of Environment and Regeneration confirmed to Members that no conversations had taken place with Dalradian Gold Ltd on
4 Page 96 permitted development rights and the company had no discussions with officers in relation to planning matters.
In response, Mr Kelly stated there had been no plans as yet, for trenching or drilling in the area. He added that if samples revealed a justification to begin the drilling process that Council would be informed.
A non-committee Member of the UUP grouping stated that the majority of the business on consultation relating to Dalradian Gold Ltd had been in the remit of the Planning Committee. He then referred to the statement made by the company that they were not currently using cyanide, however if the mining became an economic prospect, there would be processing on site and enquired if cyanide would be used in the extraction process in the future. He then enquired if the water used in the cleansing process was safe to drink.
In response, Mr Kelly stated his belief that the levels achieved at the water treatment plant would be of the compliant level for drinking water.
The non-committee Member of the UUP grouping then asked if the representatives would drink the water.
Mr Kelly, responded by reminding Members that they were not at that stage in the process but that any future planning applications would contain a proposal to treat water and discharge which would exceed drinking water standards.
The Director of Environment and Regeneration reminded Members that the planning application referred to in the presentation would be submitted to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.
The Chair thanked the representatives from Dalradian Gold Limited for their presentation.
ER167/17 Deputation – Mobuoy Road Illegal Waste Site
The Chairperson welcomed Dr Theresa Kearney, Northern Ireland Environment Agency and invited her to make the presentation to the Committee.
5 Page 97 Dr Kearney proceeded to deliver the presentation highlighting the following:
Update on the remediation strategy The enhanced environmental monitoring post-flooding Site safety Protecting the good status of the River Faughan catchment under the Water Framework Directive Protect water quality in the River Faughan Protect the NI Water drinking water supply Improve groundwater quality Achieve a positive social outcome Risk assessment Site investigation works Site security
A Member of the SDLP grouping thanked Dr Kearney for her presentation and remarked that Council were going in the right direction regarding the site at Mobuoy. He stated that he was interested to see what proposals would be put forward as a lot of work still need to be done as the waste management at the site was disastrous. He added that people were concerned at the quality of the water, not just in that area, but right across the city and district and that Council would be monitoring activities by NIEA at the site.
In response, Dr Kearney stated that participation from Members and stakeholders was paramount to get the strategy right in moving forward. She reported that monitoring would continue through the commencement, during and afterwards the remediation strategy at Mobuoy.
Independent Members of Council and a Member of the Sinn Fein grouping welcomed the presentation by Dr Kearney and commented on the following:
Reassurance for the public regarding the safety of the drinking water Has the NIEA carried out tests to the water independently from Northern Ireland Water Referred to a previous landfill site in Culmore which had cost millions of pounds to prevent contamination into the local water supplies
6 Page 98 A lot of public concern regarding the site, particularly after the recent flooding The impact on marine life in the Faughan River Approval on the remediation strategy was paramount Enquired to the cost of remediation at the site The polluters should pay towards remedial works at Mobuoy Referred to settlement lagoons located in a concrete plant at Drumahoe and enquired if the lagoons had been investigated and tested after the widespread flooding throughout the City and District. Concern regarding the industrial integrity of the lagoons.
In response, Dr Kearney stated:
Work is carried out through legal legislation to ensure that polluters are held responsible and pay towards the remediation of the site In terms of the settlement pond, regional officers had visited the area post flood, however she did not have any details since the 2016 assessment but would forward the information to Members In terms of the remediation strategy, the next step would be approval to implement the strategy including timescales and a programme of works. Will provide Members with a further update containing more information on the remediation strategy at a future committee meeting.
The Chair thanked Dr Kearney for her presentation.
Chairperson’s Business
ER168/17 Vandalism Attack on Christ Church
The Chair expressed her utter disgust at the unwarranted attack on a house of God which had left the congregation at Christ Church on Infirmary Road reeling at the aftermath of the destruction carried out. She stated that the parish office had been inundated with messages of concern and support from all communities across the City. She proposed that she as Chair on behalf of the Environment and Regeneration Committee write to the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe, condemning the attack and also offer the Council’s condolences and support.
7 Page 99 A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping seconded the proposal and condemned the mindless attack by mindless people. He stated that such behaviour was unacceptable within the community.
Independent Members of Council along with Members from the SDLP and DUP groupings echoed the previous comments adding it was a despicable act of desecration. They reported the perpetrators took items of no monetary value but which had immense personal value to the congregation.
A non-committee Independent Member of Council stated that he was heartened to hear of the cross-community support at the condemnation of the attack and asked if anyone had any information to pass it on to the relevant authorities.
A further non-committee Independent Member of Council suggested that people attend the service at Christ Church on Sunday to show their support.
The Committee
Recommended That a letter of condemnation and support from Members is written to the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe.
A Member of the UUP grouping stated he wished to raise the issue of holding two presentations at the meeting and suggested a special committee meeting may have been more useful.
The Director of Environment and Regeneration took the Members’ comments on board.
ER169/17 Traveller Site at Ballyarnett
A Member of the SDLP grouping reported that he had attended a meeting with other Councillors regarding the travellers at Ballyarnett site. He stated there were a number of health and safety concerns which would hopefully be addressed by Council’s statutory partners including the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) and the Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT). His main concern,
8 Page 100 however was the large amount of rubbish on the site and the inadequate bins that had been allocated. He stated that rubbish collections were fortnightly and asked if this could be changed to a weekly collection service to get the issue under control. He suggested that an information leaflet and education on recycling be available to the traveller community at Ballyarnett.
The Director of Environment and Regeneration stated that they will engage with the statutory partners regarding this issue and bring a report to the next Committee meeting.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping reported that the NIHE and DCSDC had cleaned the site at Ballyarnett on numerous occasions, however within days there were large amounts of rubbish in the area. He stated that people who lived in permanent housing on the site had a more responsible approach and it was temporary residents who were leaving large amounts of rubbish at the site.
The Committee
Recommended That Officers engage with the relevant agencies in relation to this matter and bring a further report to Members in relation to this issue.
ER170/17 Newtownstewart and Magheramason Play Parks
A non-committee Independent Member of Council asked for an update on the proposals for Newtownstewart and Magheramason Play Parks.
The Head of Environment reported that a detailed report would be brought back to Members outlining information on the progression of funding streams.
A Member of the UUP grouping referred to the recently flooded play park at Newtownstewart and asked if there were plans to repair the site.
The Director of Environment and Regeneration stated that as advised at the Special Council meeting relating to flooding, twenty six of Council premises had damage as a result of the floods and Officers were
9 Page 101 working on documenting and repairing all facilities and would report on this to Members as soon as possible.
Open for Decision
At this point in the meeting the Director of Environment and Regeneration requested that Agenda Item 18 Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful – Annual Cleanliness Survey, be included as open for decision after Agenda Item 12.
Confirmation of the Open Minutes
ER171/17 Minutes of the Environment and Regeneration Committee held on Wednesday 5 July 2017
Minutes of the Environment and Regeneration Committee held on 5 July 2017 (ER143/17-ER154/17) were confirmed and signed by the Chairperson as correct.
Matters Arising
ER172/17 ER148/17 Applications Processed Under Building Regulations (NI)
A Member of the UUP grouping expressed his thanks to Officers who had been dealing with issues regarding the food waste bins which he had brought to their attention and were resolved.
ER173/17 Annual Service Plan
The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to seek Members’ endorsement to update the Directorate Annual Service Plan.
The Committee
Recommended that the Directorate Annual Service Plan is updated accordingly.
ER174/17 Action Renewables
10 Page 102 The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to gain Members’ consent to join Action Renewables Energy Association (AREA).
A Member of the UUP grouping requested that the item on APSE Energy was also discussed to ascertain which association Members should join.
The Head of Capital Development and Building Control explained that the benefits to Council were set out and both were related to renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainability. He stated that the energy manager had requested Council share their best practice and knowledge on how to obtain their green objectives.
The Member of the UUP grouping stated that Council were currently Members of APSE Energy who were looking to charge more than Action Renewables. He stated his disappointment but understood the rationale of being involved in an organisation that could give advice and assistance in attempting to improve energy efficiency.
At this point in the meeting Councillor Reilly declared an interest in Agenda Item 10 – APSE Energy.
The Director of Environment and Regeneration reported that Council were involved in a number of European programmes relating to energy management. She added that Council were currently involved with partners in Donegal County Council regarding introducing an energy strategy for the entire region. She added that participation with these organisations would ensure best practice for Council.
The Member of the UUP grouping stated that although he had expressed concerns he could see the advantages of joining both associations and proposed that the recommendation be approved.
The Committee
Recommended that Council apply for membership with Action Renewables Energy Association (AREA) as a Partner Member for an annual fee of £1,000 excluding VAT.
11 Page 103 ER175/17 APSE Energy
The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval to join the APSE Energy Association.
The Committee
Recommended that Members approve joining the APSE Energy Association for a trial period of one year for a fee of £2,000 excluding VAT.
ER176/17 Sustainable NI
The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval in relation to support for Sustainable NI.
A Member of the UUP grouping enquired if all Councils had been invited to contribute to Sustainable NI, were the amounts equal as some Councils were much larger than others.
The Head of Environment and Regeneration confirmed that an equal amount was required from all Councils. She stated that if Members agree the recommendation that Sustainable NI be invited to present at a future Committee meeting regarding issues such as the climate change strategy.
A Member of the SDLP grouping requested clarification on the amount paid to Sustainable NI. He noted from the report that funding support was £5,000 however the SLA was for a period of three years and enquired if subsequent amounts of £5,000 had to be paid.
The Director of Environment and Regeneration reported that Council had previously supported Sustainable NI with annual payments of £5,000. She advised Members that the recommendation had asked for Members to enter into a three year SLA agreement at £5,000 per annum although Members could recommend an annual contribution.
12 Page 104 The Member of the SDLP grouping expressed his concern at agreeing a three year Service Level Agreement. He enquired if there was a possibility of ending the Agreement before the three year term.
The Director of Environment and Regeneration suggested that representatives from Sustainable NI be invited to attend a meeting of the Environment and Regeneration Committee to answer any questions on the support they would be providing to Council.
The Committee
Recommended that Council invite representatives from Sustainable NI to provide a presentation to Members outlining what support they would be providing to Council and endorse the three year SLA and approve annual financial support to Sustainable NI for 2017/18 to the value of £5,000 for one year.
ER177/17 Greenway Signage as part of Healthy Routes Project
The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to seek Members’ endorsement of the project to utilise the Council owned walking and cycling Greenway Network and to allocate budget provision to improve the basic level of signage along older sections of the Network.
The Committee
Recommended that Members endorse the Healthy Routes Project and that officers engage with Bogside and Brandywell Health Forum to progress and allocate appropriate budget provisions to upgrade signage along the greenway network.
ER178/17 Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful – Annual Cleanliness Survey
13 Page 105 The Head of Environment presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval to reappoint Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful (KNIB) to undertake independent cleanliness surveys across the entire Council District.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping stated that Council would be paying a substantial amount of money over the three years and enquired if it was an awards exercise or would Council gain anything from participating.
The Director of Environment and Regeneration reported that participation gave Council a responsibility for checking cleanliness and providing independent verification for the Key Performance Indicators and service objectives in terms of giving an independent idea of the cleanliness of the City and District. She added that this would be beneficial over the three years to demonstrate that DCSDC have a high level of cleanliness throughout the Council area. The Head of Environment stated that participation would mean Council was complying with its obligations under the Litter (Northern Ireland) Order 1994 which was subject to an independent analysis.
A Member of the SDLP grouping stated that any independent body monitoring the actions of any organisation was beneficial in helping to maintain and raise standards.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping enquired as to how the transects were chosen for the inspection.
The Head of Environment reported that transects were identified through the Litter Order under eight district categories from high density urban areas through to urban areas. He added that the process involved a random selection from each Council area with the areas changing periodically to compare sections over time.
The Committee
Recommended that Members approve Council’s participation in the annual Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful cleanliness survey on a 3 year fixed term basis for the sum of £7841.25 plus VAT per annum.
14 Page 106 Open For Information
ER179/17 Consultation Paper – Office of Rail and Road
The Director of Environment and Regeneration presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. She advised that the purpose of the report was to inform Members’ of correspondence from the Office of Rail and Road (ORR).
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the content of the report.
E180/17 Applications Processed Under Building Regulations (NI)
The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to inform Members of applications processed under Building Regulations (NI) between 1 June 2017 and 31 July 2017.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the applications processed under the Building Regulations (NI) between 1 June 2017 and 31 July 2017.
ER181/17 Presence of Mica Affected Concrete Blocks in DCSDC Area
The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to update Members on a desk top investigation into the possible use of mica affected concrete blocks in the Derry City and Strabane District Council Area.
The Committee
15 Page 107 Recommended that Members note the content of the report.
ER182/17 Street Naming and Property Numbering – Request for Bilingual Sign – Windridge Drive, Derry
The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to inform Members of the outcome of a plebiscite undertaken to provide bilingual signage at Windridge Drive.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the content of the report.
ER183/17 Street Naming and Property Numbering – Request for Bilingual Sign – Hollymount Park, Derry
The Head of Capital Development and Building Control presented the above report a copy of which had previously been circulated. He advised that the purpose of the report was to inform Members of the outcome of a plebiscite undertaken to provide bilingual signage at Hollymount Park.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the content of the report.
The Meeting terminated at 7.20 pm
______Chairperson
______Date
16 Page 108 17 Page 109 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 9e
Derry City and Strabane District Council
Open Minutes of Health and Community Committee of Derry City and Strabane District Council held in the Council Chamber, Guildhall, Derry on Thursday 14 September 2017 at 4.00pm. ______
Present: - Alderman Drew Thompson (Chairperson); Aldermen R Hamilton, McClintock, Councillors Campbell, Carlin, Cusack, Duffy, Gallagher, Gardiner, Hastings, Jackson, McGinley, R McHugh and Tierney.
Non-Members of Committee: - Alderman Hussey; Councillors Donnelly, and P Kelly .
In Attendance: - Director of Health and Community (Mrs K McFarland), Head of Community Development and Leisure (Mr B O’Hagan), Head of Health and Community Wellbeing (Mr S Donaghy), PA to Health and Community Director (Mrs L Shields) and Committee Services Assistant (Mrs T Johnstone). ______
HC173/17 Notice and Summons for Meeting
The Director of Health and Community read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.
HC174/17 Members Attendance and Apologies
There were no apologies.
HC175/17 Declarations of Members’ Interests
Alderman Thompson declared an interest in the following agenda items: . Agenda item 24 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership Funding Update . Agenda item 25 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership Annual Report 2016/17.
Councillor McGinley declared an interest in the following agenda items: . Agenda item 24 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership Funding Update . Agenda item 25 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership Annual Report 2016/17.
Page 111 Councillor Jackson declared an interest in the following agenda item: . Agenda item 24 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership Funding Update.
Councillor Tierney declared an interest in the following agenda item: . Agenda item 24 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership Funding Update.
Councillor Hastings declared an interest in the following agenda item: . Agenda item 24 – Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership Funding Update.
Open for Decision
HC176/17 Deputation: Western Health and Social Care Trust – Consultation on Draft 2017/18 Savings Plan Proposals
The Chairperson welcomed Mr Kieran Downey, Director of Women’s and Childrens Services and Executive Director of Social Work, Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT); Mrs Leslie Mitchell, Director of Finance and Contracting; Mr Bob Brown, Director for Primary Care and Older Persons; Ms Teresa Molloy, Director of Performance and Service Improvement; Mr Trevor Millar, Director of Adult Mental Health and Disability Services and Mr Dermot Hughes, Medical Director and invited them to make their presentation.
Before making the presentation, Mr Downey expressed apologies from the following: Dr Anne Kilgallen, Chief Executive; Ms Ann McConnell, Director of Human Resources and Geraldine McKay, Director of Acute Services.
The representatives proceeded to deliver the presentation on the Draft Savings Proposals highlighting the following:
. The Trust Board had approved a draft savings plan for consultation . Department of Health has asked the Health and Social Care Trusts to consult on proposals to release £70m cash . £12.5m is the share from WHSCT . Trust intends to undertake extensive engagement with the public, key stakeholders and staff . Will listen to all views on impacts and other possibilities for savings in its consultation report . Plans and proposals to include:
Page 112 1. Reduce Goods and Services Spend 2. Apply vacancy controls (£510k) 3. Accelerate efficiency projects (£950k) 4. Increase income to the Trust (£900k) 5. Reduction in agency spend (£1.63m) 6. Temporarily reduce routine elective activity (£1.780m) 7. Operate a cap on agency locum payment rates (£700k) 8. Temporarily reduce the provision of Domiciliary Care and Nursing Home packages (£1.16m) 9. Consolidate services onto fewer sites; Merge William Street and Rectory Field and reform Gortin, Dromore and Rosslea daycare services (£170k) 10. Apply additional vacancy controls across services and accrue in year savings due to revised annual leave policy (£1m) 11. Temporarily reduce or delay some service developments (£2.49m) 12. Remodel/reform neonatal and Older Peoples Liaison Services on a temporary basis (£470k).
A Member of the DUP grouping thanked the representatives for their presentation. She stated that an awful situation had been imposed upon the Trust by having to make the cuts which would have long term implications. She enquired if the extra funding awarded to the Trust to help deal with issues surrounding high numbers of locum staff and looked-after children would still be allocated.
In response, Mrs Mitchell confirmed that they would receive additional funding to cover exceptional costs such as looked-after children and locum staff.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping expressed major concerns as the majority of the proposals were contrary to the plan as set out by Minister O’Neill. He referred to the consultation events and enquired if there had been any consultation with the Trade Unions regarding the proposals. He also referred to the proposals for flexible staff and locums where the objective would be to protect front line staff and services. He expressed his concern that the staff were already under existing pressure and stated any cuts to this provision would have a direct effect on available beds. He stated that the proposals regarding elective care was very concerning as waiting lists were already too long with some patients waiting for up to four years for elective care. He added that the extended waiting lists may also cause medical problems in the long term which would have further expense for the Trust. He
Page 113 further stated that the proposed cuts to domiciliary care would be a direct attack on the most vulnerable as some people may have to remain in hospital because of a care package not being in place. With reference to the proposed merger between Rectory Field and William Street, he stated that a lot of older people do need and rely on care and support so once again it is an attack on the most vulnerable. He added that the residents will be devastated by this news as they were left with an uncertain future.
Mr Downey stated that he had noted the comments which will form part of the response to the consultation document.
Ms Molloy stated that the Trust valued the relationship with Trade Union colleagues and had spent a long time fostering those relationships. She reported that Trade Unions were very exercised in the proposals that all Trusts had included in their consultation plans. She added that whilst they may come from different perspectives they were very committed to continuing to engage and ensure that everyone was well informed whilst working through the consultation process.
Mr Dermot Hughes, stated that the trust had a budget of £17m for medical locums and the trust was attempting to reduce this. He further reported there was a high reliance on locum staff because of the distance of the Trust area from Belfast.
He referred to domiciliary care with the proposal to merge Rectory Field and William Street Nursing homes and stated that as a member of the nursing profession, there was a responsibility to the most vulnerable. He explained the reason for the proposal was that almost £40m was spent on domiciliary packages and the Trust had to look at what services had significant expenditure. He stated that the vulnerability and uncertainty of those individuals must be taken into consideration and they would be consulting with residents and staff. He added the merger could actually improve services for older people in those homes as both environments could be enhanced.
A Member of the SDLP grouping thanked the representatives for their presentation. One of the proposals she referred to was the issue of unpaid leave. She stated that staff were already under pressure with working above and beyond and her understanding of carrying over annual leave was that it occurred in the course of your duties and were unable to take it because of work commitments. She fetl that there was no way that Council could support the proposals as the cuts would create the perfect storm as it discriminated against people who could
Page 114 not afford private health care. She then asked the Trust Executives if the problems could be solved by the restoration of the power-sharing executive at Stormont.
In response, Mr Downey stated that neither he nor other Trust members could comment on the current political situation. He further stated that the task was firmly fixed on trying to ensure delivery of a range of proposals to consult on for a 6 week period and that they would hear the opinions of the people, staff, users of our service and our political representatives. He stated that they had a professional responsibility but also had a responsibility to break even. He referred to the staff annual leave entitlement carry over and reported that the Trust depended on their committed staff whom they believed were the best that there is. He added that this was an opportunity for the Trust to make savings to meet their £12.5m target that did not directly impact on patient care.
An Independent Member of Council commented that he had looked at the savings plan which was a cut to health and social care and would impact on many lives. He felt that Council should be consulted on how to challenge these proposed cuts. He then asked Mr Downey if the Trust had questioned why the cuts were happening.
In response, Mr Downey reported that since 8 August 2017, they had been fixed on attempting to put proposals out for consultation within a very short timeframe. He informed Members that the money had already been deducted from the budget and that the Trust had a legal responsibility to break even. He added that since that date there had been engagement with the Directors of Service and Performance Improvement and Chief Executives to consider how to move forward.
A non-committee Independent Member of Council commented on the proposals and the impact on patients. He stated that the increase in car park charges would have an effect on low income families especially those who had to attend hospital because of long term illness. He referred to the proposals regarding Gortin Day Care Centre that was regularly used by residents from Plumbridge and Cranagh and stated that this was targeting the most vulnerable in our City and District. He added that DUP and Sinn Fein, must now put their heads together and see what effects these cuts would have on our communities.
A non-committee Member of the UUP grouping stated that he appreciated the situation and was of the legal obligations of the Trust. However, he stated that there had been no mention of the moral obligations of the Trust and how that would affect the electorate. He
Page 115 further stated that some of the proposals that were outlined were irreversible as once the process began there would be services that would not return to our community and that the Political aspects must be addressed.
A non-committee Independent Member of Council stated that this was a planned attack on the most vulnerable in our society. He referred to the proposed merger of Rectory Field and William Street nursing homes and expressed concern on the affect this would have on the residents who needed to be cared for.
A Member of the SDLP grouping expressed her shock at the proposals. She queried the reason and the rationale behind the cuts-; who was responsible for them, and if there was any way they could be reversed. She asked if the lack of an Executive at Stormont was the reason. She stated that it was highly insulting and offensive for parties in the Chamber to wax lyrical about how terrible the situation was when they could do something about it.
Mr Downey stated that he could not comment on the political situation. He commented that the team were ensuring that the Trust was run with the available resources that were in place.
A Member of the DUP grouping remarked that there was no easy way to make the proposed cuts. She stated that the politicians had a responsibility and called on all parties to get back into Stormont immediately.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping stated that the reason the province did not have an Executive was because of the very absence of equality in the Government. He added that until there was equality, respect and integrity there would not be an Assembly.
The Chair thanked the trust for their presentation outlining the proposed cuts and encouraged everyone to make their response and hoped that some positive results could be achieved.
The Committee
Recommended that Members make their recommendations to the consultation document by 13 October 2017.
Page 116 HC177/17 Chairperson’s Business
Vandalism Attack on Christ Church
The Chair welcomed everyone to the Chamber after the Summer recess. He expressed his condemnation at the recent attack on Christ Church and asked anyone who had any information to pass it on to the PSNI.
HC178/17 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Health and Community Committee held on Thursday 6 July 2017
The open Minutes of the Meeting held on 6 July 2017 (HC142/17 – HC171/17) were confirmed and signed by the Chairperson as correct.
Matters Arising
HC179/17 Renewal of Entertainment Licence for Granny Annie’s, Waterloo Street, Derry (HC159/17) – (Amusement Permit for Oasis)
An Independent Member of Council expressed his concern that a renewal licence had been granted for an amusement arcade that had been transferred from Bank Place to Shipquay Street. He stated that the licence had been subject to a Court ruling in June 2017 and reported that the licence should not have been a renewal but a new application. He added that subject to the findings in the report that all matters in this application be suspended in order to ensure that proper procedures were followed.
The Director of Health and Community stated that the legal team had advised the matter had been raised at a recent Audit Committee meeting and had referred the matter for assessment by a QC and were awaiting advice.
The Independent Member appreciated the response however, felt that there should have been a suspension of those matters.
The Chair stated that Officers were waiting on legal information on the matter.
HC180/17 Information Sharing Protocol with Department for Communities Landlord Registrar
Page 117 The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented Members with the above report, a copy of which had been previously circulated. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval to sign a revised information sharing protocol with the Department for Communities Landlord Registrar.
A Member of the SDLP grouping commented on the report stating that there were a lot of derelict properties within the City and District. She enquired if Officers would have the contact details of all the landlords in the area if there were any issues regarding properties.
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing informed the Member that there was a full list of contact details.
The Committee
Recommended that Council approves the signing of the revised Information Sharing Protocol provided by the Landlord Registrar.
HC181/17 Consultation on the proposed Food Hygiene (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017
The Head of Community Health and Wellbeing presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to inform Members on the consultation on the draft Food Hygiene (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017.
A Member of the DUP grouping referred to raw drinking milk and enquired about farmers and their families who drank the milk directly from cows.
In response, the Head of Community Health and Wellbeing stated that farmers would be aware of the risk and this legislation and amendment concentrated on the labelling of processed products to increase consumer awareness.
The Committee
Recommended that Council approves Derry City and Strabane District Council’s response to the consultation on the draft Food
Page 118 Hygiene (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017.
HC182/17 Annual Health and Safety and Consumer Protection Plan 2017/18
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval of the Health and Safety and Consumer Protection Service Plan for 2017/18 for the Environmental Health Service.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping welcomed the report which highlighted the work undertaken by Officers and encouraged them to keep up the dialogue with businesses to encourage best practice and advice.
A Member of the SDLP grouping enquired if the regulations had changed or extended with a more rigorous approach.
In response, the Head of Health and Community Wellbeing stated that the regulations were broadly similar to the previous ones. However, the priority areas had changed in terms of identifying which areas officers would target.
The Committee
Recommended that Council approves the proposed Health and Safety and Consumer Protection Service Plan 2017/18.
HC183/17 Health, Housing and Public Conveniences Team Service Plan
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval of the Health, Housing and Public Conveniences Service Plan for 2017/18.
The Committee
Recommended that Council approves the Health, Housing and Public Conveniences Service Plan for 2017/18.
Page 119 HC184/17 Transposition of the Medium Combustion Plant Directive including the regulation of thermal electricity generators
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to inform Members on the consultation on Transposition of the Medium Combustion Plant Directive (MCPD) including the regulation of thermal electricity generators.
The Committee
Recommended that Council approves the DCSDC response to the consultation on Transposition of the Medium Combustion Plant Directive including the regulation of thermal electricity generators.
HC185/17 Air Quality and Health Programme
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval for the adoption of the Air Quality and Health Programme funded by the Public Health Agency.
The Committee
Recommended that Council approves the adoption of the Air Quality and Health Programme.
HC186/17 Sunday Trading
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was for Members to consider whether the Council should extend the designated area or specific part(s) of the Council area as a holiday resort under the provisions of Article 6 of the Shops (Sunday Trading & c) (Northern Ireland) Order 1997.
A Member of the SDLP grouping recommended that Council hold a consultation with the Trade Unions on this issue. She stated that there
Page 120 would be implications for people employed in the larger stores if the opening hours were extended. She further stated that in terms of Strabane coming under the designation of holiday resort, the type of businesses that would attract tourism would be small, family owned shops, coffee shops, craft and jewellery and these shops can already trade for extended hours, therefore the impact would only be on the larger stores.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping stated that the deputation by USDAW at the July Committee meeting showed evidence of why Council should not adopt the proposal and recommended that Members did not approve the proposal.
An Independent Member of Council stated that Council should be attempting to create tourism, in the Strabane area instead of designating it as a holiday resort.
A Member of the SDLP grouping stated for clarification that the former Derry City Council area had already been designated a holiday resort but there was not the same parity for Strabane. She expressed her concerns that there had been no responses to the consultation and that it was the decision for the people of Strabane. The Member proposed that the recommendation be deferred until Council had consulted with the people of Strabane.
A non-committee Member of the UUP grouping enquired if a corporate body could have a section designated as a holiday resort and another not. He felt that the description ‘holiday resort’ was not suitable.
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing confirmed that he understood this to be the case.
The Committee
Recommended that Council does not support the recommendation to designate the legacy Strabane District Council areas as a holiday resort under Article 6 of the Shops (Sunday Trading & c) (Northern Ireland) Order 1997.
HC187/17 Entertainment and Street Trading Licence Applications
Page 121 The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to inform Members of Entertainment and Street Trading Licence Applications recently granted under delegated authority and to seek Members’ approval to grant the renewal of an Entertainment Licence for Granny Annie’s, Waterloo Street, Derry.
A Member of the DUP grouping enquired if there had been any recent complaints regarding the noise levels at Ebrington Square.
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing confirmed that there had been complaints and noise monitoring was being carried out as part of an ongoing investigation.
A Member of the SDLP grouping referred to the entertainment licence for Granny Annie’s and enquired if residents were happy with the outcome and whether the noise levels will continue to be monitored.
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing stated that noise levels would be continually monitored and the licence was due for renewal in November 2017 with consultation through public advertising and confirmed if the owners were not compliant with the conditions of the licence, it would be revoked.
The Committee
Recommended that (i) Council approves the renewal of an Entertainment Licence for Granny Annie’s, Waterloo Street, Derry with the noise condition specified as ‘Music noise levels in the 63Hz and 125Hz octave frequency bands (Leq) should be controlled so as not to exceed (in habitable rooms of adjacent residential property) 51dB and 39dB (Leq), respectively, and (ii) that the Entertainment Licence may be revoked if conditions are not adhered to.
HC188/17 The Roads Miscellaneous Provisions Act (NI) 2010 – Prohibition or restriction of use of public roads for Special Events
Page 122 The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval in relation to fees, delegated powers and administration process for the restriction or closing of roads.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping expressed his concern on the process and asked to defer the recommendation so Members can have more details. He referred to the conversations between SOLACE NI and the Permanent Secretary but there had been no opportunity for Members to discuss the matter. He commented on the lack of engagement with Elected Members. He also raised concerns from a community perspective regarding the administration fees and newspaper advertising for small local events such as fun days. The Member suggested writing to the Permanent Secretary to have the concerns addressed and stated that Sinn Fein would be opposed to the recommendation that small community groups would have to pay administration and advertising costs. He enquired if any organisation that applied through the parades commission were exempt from this particular process.
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing stated that groups who had applied to the Parades Commission and submitted the 11/1 form would be exempt from this process.
The Committee
Recommended that Council (i) defers the decision in relation to the administration of licence application process, fees and delegated powers until Members have received more information on the process and (ii) A letter is sent to the Permanent Secretary to seek clarification on the Commencement Order and to have Members’ concerns addressed.
HC189/17 Review of Public Convenience Service Provision for the Derry City and Strabane District Council Area
Page 123 The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval of the recommendations of the Working Group tasked with reviewing the current provision of public conveniences in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.
A non-committee Member of the UUP grouping stated that as a member of the Public Convenience group he wished to clarify a situation regarding the Community Toilet Scheme (CTS). He referred to the recommendation to close automatic toilets in Castlederg and Victoria Market with the feasibility of providing a permanent Council toilet facility at Castle Site, Castlederg, therefore closure of the public toilet in Castlederg was dependent on the successful implementation of the CTS. He stated that he hoped for a successful feasibility study for the Castle Site.
A non-committee Independent Member of Council expressed his concerns regarding the recommendation to close the public conveniences at Cranagh. He stated that the scenic area was popular with tourists. He stated that the Head of Tourism was planning a visit to the area and will be informed of Council’s plans. He asked that Officers consult with Cranagh residents and businesses and reconsider closing the public conveniences at Cranagh as it would have an impact on visitors to the area.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping referred to the toilet facilities in Castlederg and agreed with the comments made by the Member of the UUP grouping that toilet facilities in Castlederg and Victoria Market did not close until the implementation of the CTS.
The Director of Health and Community stated that the recommendations would be taken on board and a timeline and relevant consultation would be developed before any action took place.
A Member of the SDLP grouping stated that the issue was not the need for toilet provision but how often the facilities would be used. He added that the logic should be based on usage and cost.
A non-committee Member of the UUP grouping referred to toilet provision at Cranagh which was to become part of the CTS. He stated that the Member of the SDLP grouping was correct in identifying the number of people who actually use the facility. He added that the issue
Page 124 was how the CTS will alleviate the difficulty of removing the actual facility.
An Independent Member of Council reminded Members that members of the public had incurred criminal convictions arising from lack of toilet provision.
The Head of Community Health and Wellbeing outlined briefly some of the considerations when making the decisions on toilet provision and reported that the CTS had received expressions of interest. He stated that Officers had consulted with local businesses, many of which have supported the idea. He reported that the contract for Victoria Market and Castlederg was £30,000 per annum and would not generate a lot of income in terms of usage. Therefore the CTS in terms of financial incentive to make toilets of good quality available to the public was the way forward.
A non-committee Independent Member of Council stated that the scheme may work in the City but was not suitable for the rural areas.
The Committee
Recommended that Council approves the recommendations with the proviso that (i) the timeline for provision of permanent toilet facilities in Castlederg is agreed prior to closures taking place: (ii) consultation takes place in Cranagh.
After a vote was taken by a show of hands the result was as follows:- For – 8; Against – 0; Abstentions – 0. The proposal was carried.
HC190/17 Automatic Flushing Shower Units for Sports Pavilions
The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval for the installation of Automatic Flushing Shower Units to Sports Pavilions across the Council area.
The Committee
Page 125 Recommended that Council approves the procurement and installation of Automatic Flushing Units in Council Sports Pavilions.
HC191/17 Everybody Active 2020 Active Awards Grant Aid for Sports Clubs
The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was for Members’ approval on the joint grant aid programme for sports clubs in 2018/2019.
The Committee
Recommended that Council approves the delivery of the 2018/2019 Grant Aid programme, subject to confirmation of external funding from Sport NI.
HC192/17 Neighbourhood Renewal Active Citizenship through Sport 2017/18 update
The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members on the funding secured to implement the Neighbourhood Renewal Active Citizenship through Sport Project.
A Member of the DUP grouping referred to item 3.3 in the report and enquired how the programme costs were allocated.
The Head of Community Development and Leisure explained that the model used was similar to the one used with the Advice Services, based on population and deprivation.
A non-committee Member of the UUP grouping enquired if any of the five areas were based on population.
In response, the Head of Community Development and Leisure stated that in terms of population he did not have the exact figures but it was approximately in the region of 2:1.
Page 126 The Committee
Recommended that Council approves the delivery of the Strabane allocation of £7,112.72 programme costs.
HC193/17 Community Services Emergency Fund
The Head Community Development and Leisure presented the above report, which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval on the allocation of a Community Emergency Fund to community and sporting groups operating within the Council area. He noted that since the report was issued, a further group, Kilcooney Cricket Club was allocated emergency funding.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping requested details on any groups turned down for the emergency funding. The Head of Community Development and Leisure agreed to provide same.
The Committee
Recommended that Council approves the allocation of £10,000 to the 18 Community and Sporting organisations, to include Kilcooney Cricket Club. Open for Information
HC194/17 Drinking Water Report for Northern Ireland 2016
The Head of Health and Community Wellbeing presented the above report for information, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to inform Members of a report produced by Northern Ireland Water on drinking water quality in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area during 2016.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the contents of the report.
Page 127 HC195/17 Social Investment Fund: Community Premises Support Programme
The Head of Community Wellbeing and Leisure presented the above report for information, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to provide Members with an update on the Social Investment Fund Community Premises Support Programme.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the contents of the report.
HC196/17 Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) Funding Update 2017/18
The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report for information, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members in relation to funding support for the Derry and Strabane PCSP.
The Committee Recommended that Members note the contents of the report.
HC197/17 Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership Annual Report 2016/17
The Head of Community Development and Leisure presented the above report for information, previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to inform Members of the Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP Annual Report for 2017/17.
A non-committee Independent Member of Council referred to the list of future strategic priorities in the report and noted that there was no provision for CCTV in Strabane Town or the Community Warden Scheme for the rural area.
In response, the Head of Community Development and Leisure stated that the report contained provision for the 2016/17 financial year. The Community Safety Warden Scheme was Derry based as a proportion of the funding came from Ulster University. However, subject to 2018/19
Page 128 PCSP budget, Officers were assessing the implications of extending the Community Safety Warden Scheme into the rural areas.
An Independent Member of Council highlighted a matter of accuracy within the report. He stated that there were 4 Independent Elected Members and not 7 elected after the 2015 Elections.
The Director of Health and Community stated that the necessary changes would be made.
A Member of the Sinn Fein grouping stated that prior to the amalgamation of Councils, the issue of CCTV in Strabane District Council would have been subject to consultation within the local community as people did have strong views on this issue with not everyone in agreement with it. She then referred to the Community Safety Warden Scheme and stated that the scheme had been in operation in Strabane for a short period of time. However, it was not particularly effective as the wardens worked for G4S and were not familiar with the area. She referred to the Mourne Search and Rescue Group who provided a very valuable service to the area. She proposed that when future provision was being considered for the Strabane Town area, that home grown organisations would be recommended as they provided on the ground services in terms of providing adequate provision and monitoring of behaviour in Strabane.
A non-committee Member of the UUP grouping commented on the lack of Community Safety Wardens in the Strabane area and hoped the PCSP had taken this into consideration. He stated that Mourne Search and Rescue Group had been adopted as a community safety team by the people in Strabane. However, when Community Safety Wardens were on the ground in areas such as Castlederg, Donemana, Sion Mills and Newtownstewart, they were welcomed and accepted by the community. He stated that the scheme operated on a yearly basis which meant there was no continuity within the service. He referred to funding by Ulster University to the CSWS and stated that NIHE also contributed to the scheme and therefore had a responsibility to become more involved in the wider area.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the contents of the report.
Page 129 HC198/17 Correspondence
The Director of Health and Community presented the above report for information, previously circulated to Members regarding correspondence received by Council.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the contents of the report.
HC199/17 Consultation List
The Director of Health and Community presented the above report for information, previously circulated to Members regarding consultation papers received by Council.
The Committee
Recommended that Members note the contents of the report.
The Meeting then went into Confidential Business.
The Meeting terminated at 6.25pm
Chairperson: ______
Date: ______
Page 130 Page 131 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 9f
Derry City and Strabane District Council
Open Minutes of Assurance, Audit and Risk Committee held in the Council Chamber, Guildhall, Derry on Monday 18 September 2017 at 4.00pm. ______
Present: - Councillor McGinley (in the Chair); Aldermen McClintock, Thompson; Councillors Carlin, Donnelly, Duffy, Gallagher, Hastings, McKeever, McMahon, O’Reilly, Reilly and Robinson.
Non-Member of Committee: - Councillor Carr
In Attendance: - Chief Executive (Mr J Kelpie), Director of Health and Community (Mrs K McFarland), Lead Finance Officer (Mr A Dallas), Lead Assurance Officer (Mrs D McDonnell), Corporate Health & Safety Officer (Ms U O’Doherty, NIAO (Ms C Kane) and Committee Services Assistant (Mrs J Short)
______
AAR70/17 Notice and Summons for Meeting
The Lead Assurance Officer read the Notice and Summons for the Meeting.
AAR71/17 Apologies
Apologies had been received from Councillor D Kelly.
AAR72/17 Declarations of Members’ Interests
There were no Declarations of Interest.
Open for Decision
AAR73/17 Chairperson’s Business
The Chair referred to the tragic deaths that occurred within the City over previous hours, details of which had not been released. He offered his condolences to the families concerned.
Page 133 Agenda Item No. 14 – Draft Report to those Charged with Governance 2016/17
The Chair advised Members that the above report would be presented in open business for decision by Members.
AAR74/17 Confirmation of the Open Minutes of the Assurance, Audit and Risk Committee held on 29 June 2017
The Open Minutes of the Assurance, Audit and Risk Committee held on 29 June 2017 (AAR56/17 – AAR69/17) were confirmed and signed by the Chairperson.
AAR75/17 Matters Arising
There were no matters arising from the Minutes.
AAR76/17 Financial Statements 2016/17
The Lead Finance Officer presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ approval of the Financial Statements, including the Annual Governance Statement of Derry City and Strabane District Council for the financial year 2016/2017.
Councillor Carlin joined the Meeting at this stage.
The Committee
Recommended that Council approves the Financial Statements for Derry City and Strabane District Council for the year ending 31 March 2017.
AAR77/17 Draft Report to those Charged with Governance 2016/2017
The Local Government Auditor presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members on the Draft Report to those Charged with Governance 2016/2017.
An Independent Member referred to significant risks of material misstatement outlined within the report (page 4) where it stated that there continued to be uncertainty regarding the ‘going concern’ status
Page 134 of the Airport; he further referred to the Corporate Risk Register to be presented later in the meeting wherein it reported that the Airport was ranked as a ‘critical risk’ due to the access of funding allocated from the NI Assembly. He expressed concern that both reports were contradictory in terms of the financial risks imposed by the Airport and sought clarity in that regard.
The Local Government Auditor in response to the previous speaker clarified that they had considered the going concern status of the airport as part of their audit work and had obtained sufficient audit evidence in relation to its’ status as a going concern.
The Chief Executive explained that both reports had highlighted the risks associated with CODA and would be continually reviewed together with the other 9 risks which are categorised as high or critical based risks within the Corporate Risk Register.
The Lead Finance Officer advised Members that as part of the rates estimates process for 2017/18, Council had approved a 2 year funding package which would ensure the operational sustainability of the airport at current levels until 2019 and throughout the period of the PSO. The Audit Office would have relied on this as evidence supporting the going concern status. He also advised that the additional funding from the NI Assembly was for further route development and, whilst this funding was critical for future sustainability, it did not impact on the airport’s current status as a going concern.
The Committee
Recommended that Council notes for information the Draft Report to those Charged with Governance 2016/17.
AAR78/17 Corporate Risk Register
The Lead Assurance Officer presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to present the Council’s Corporate Risk Register, and details of the latest reviews completed and to seek Members’ comments in relation to the content of the Register.
The Committee
Recommended that Council notes for information the Corporate Risk Register for
Page 135 Derry City and Strabane District Council.
AAR79/17 Corporate Health, Safety and Wellbeing Update
The Corporate Health and Safety Officer presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to seek Members’ endorsement for the health and safety processes within Council.
The Committee
Recommended that Council endorses the Corporate Health, Safety and Wellbeing Update report.
Open for Information
AAR80/17 Local Government Auditor’s Report 2017
The Lead Assurance Officer presented the above report, details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to advise Members on the exercise of the Local Government Auditor’s functions for the year ended 31st March 2017.
The Committee
Recommended that Council notes for information the Local Government Auditor’s Report 2017.
AAR81/17 Finance and Procurement System Upgrade
The Lead Assurance Officer presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members on the steps currently being taken in the organisation to move towards a centralised procurement function.
The Committee
Page 136 Recommended that Council notes for information the Finance and Procurement System Upgrade report.
AAR82/17 Performance Improvement
The Lead Assurance Officer presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to update Members in relation to the Council’s Performance Improvement Responsibilities.
The Committee
Recommended that Council notes for information the Performance Improvement report.
AAR83/17 Self-Insurance Programme – Claim Audit Report
The Lead Assurance Officer presented the above report details of which had been previously circulated to Members. The purpose of the report was to advise Members of a recent audit completed by RSA Insurance of Council’s claims management systems under its Self-Insurance Programme.
The Committee
Recommended that Council notes for information the RSA Claim Audit Report The
Meeting terminated at 4.35pm.
Page 137 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 10 Title of Report: Officer Presenting:
European Capital of Culture 2023 Author:
1 Purpose of Report/Recommendations
1.1 The purpose of this report is to update Members on the development of a bid for the UK
designated city for European Capital of Culture in 2023 (ECoC2023), and to seek consideration and endorsement on a number of key issues to enable the effective Phase I submission by 27 October 2017.
1.2 This paper, its contents and recommendations are to be considered in conjunction with a parallel report and presentation on the emerging bid themes and cultural programme at the meeting on September 28th 2017 in restricted business due to the competitive and sensitive
nature of these elements of the bid process at this stage.
2 Background
2.1 Members will be aware that Belfast City Council and Derry City and Strabane District Council have been progressing a bid for the much coveted award of European Capital of Culture 2023. This is a once in a generation transformational opportunity for both cities and the wider region to promote and showcase the cultural and creative aspects of our place as well as delivering many wider social and economic benefits to all our citizens.
All bids must demonstrate they meet six criteria:
. Contribution to the long term strategies . European dimension . Cultural and artistic control . Capacity to deliver . Outreach
Page 139 . Management (inc finance) It must be stressed that the criteria will be strictly applied in phase 1of the bidding process. The European dimension is very much a prominent criteria. So the bid needs to look outward to Europe and we must demonstrate how the theme and the programme will assist other European cities and regions address similar issues. 70% of the programming must have a European dimension, competition is very strong with the four other cities in the UK. Therefore our bid must demonstrate that we meet the rules, the criteria, the vision and that we have the capacity to deliver.
2.2 Previous experience shows that participating and/or securing the European Capital of Culture title can act as a catalyst in supporting the social, economic and physical regeneration of successful cities and their wider region. We believe that a successful bid would help deliver the positive outcomes set out in our respective Strategic Growth Plans by contributing to: A strong competitive economy; A cultural destination of choice; A better skilled and educated workforce; Connecting people and opportunities through infrastructure A shared, equal and safe community; Long, healthy and fulfilling lives; and Our young people having the best start in life
There are also real and significant social and cultural benefits for people living not just in both cities but across Northern Ireland. A successful bid would help connect people to opportunities; create positive changes in attitudes and perceptions; enhance civic engagement and participation; improve social inclusion and promote the richness and diversity of our cultures.
2.3 Our aim is to develop a programme which will help us realise long lasting economic and social benefits for our citizens especially at a time when we prepare to leave the European Union. In particular, we want to achieve significant social impact in terms of belonging and identity and we recognise that this needs to happen across the two cities and the surrounding
Page 140 areas if it is going to be significant and transformational with a lasting legacy. The only way to do this at scale is by using the two main cities to drive this change through a cultural transformation. We acknowledge that neither city can achieve this on its own. Our respective cities are the population, economic and cultural centres for all of Northern Ireland but also the places where segregation, deep generational divisions and post conflict tensions are still most evident and hence our cultural programme, through ECOC2023, have the greatest potential for driving transformation across the region generally and within our cities, in particular. European Capital of Culture 2023 will provide us with an opportunity to promote both cities and our surrounding areas as a vibrant places, positioned on the edge of the European Union but which display a rich and diverse European cultural heritage. As a post conflict society, we are emerging away from our difficult past towards a shared place with an outward facing vision and hopeful ambitions for our future.
2.4 Timeline & process for Bid submission
Members will be aware that ECOC2023 bid is a two staged process with the initial key milestone being the Phase 1 Bid Book submission to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sports (DCMS) by 27 October 2017. This first phase submission will take account of discussions and input from elected Members and reflects the extensive engagement processes undertaken to date with citizens and stakeholder groups. The submission of Phase 1 will be led by the Civic Dignitaries of both Cities (i.e. Lord Mayor of Belfast City Council and Mayor of Derry and Strabane District Council). It is proposed that a civic event will be held across both cities at a similar time to recognise the significance of the submission being made and showcase the civic energy and support behind the bid.
Following bid submission, a formal presentation by each candidate will take place in late November 2017 and will be scrutinised by a panel of 12 National and European experts.
Page 141 A decision of which bids are successful to move to Phase 2 is likely to be confirmed in December 2017, with successful cities given a further 7 or 8 months to further develop and refine the bid proposition and emerging cultural programme with a final submission likely to be in June 2018 (date to be confirmed by DCMS).
Active engagement and involvement will continue with Members, citizens and other stakeholder groups, including those who may be hard to reach and/or feel marginalised, to help further refine and shape the Phase 2 bid proposition and emerging programme of activities. Important that we collectively enable and support greater levels of participation, engender of a sense of ownership and ensure maximum benefit.
2.5 Engagement
Two focused and interactive workshop sessions have been held with elected Members (i.e. 19 June 2017 and 12 September 2017) which provided a forum to help inform and shape the emerging concept, themes and initial proposals around the cultural programme as well as the approach to communications and engagement.
To date the bid has engaged with over 10,000 people across both cities. This has been achieved through organized sessions at events throughout the summer alongside a programme of tailored workshops. Extensive engagement has also taken place through Council’s existing schemes. An online platform has also been established.
The engagement during stage one has largely focussed on four strands:
(i) One to one engagement with local citizens (ii) Facilitated workshops with interest groups (iii) Sessions with representative and voluntary organisations (iv) Deep dive engagement activity with targeted groups including Section 75 groups.
The responses and output from this engagement has directly shaped the overall theme and brand emerging for the bid. This theme needs to be authentic to the cities as well as having strong relevance for Europe. The bid is on target to have engaged with 10,000 citizens by the submission date of 27 October 2017. Page 142 Should the bid be shortlisted to stage 2 this engagement will continue with opportunities for direct participation through a series of pathfinder projects which will help further develop and refine our concept, themes and emerging cultural programme of activities.
A Project Steering Group comprising of central government departments, statutory agencies and key city stakeholders has been established who are supportive and helping progress the submission of a bid.
We are also engaging with the business sector across both cities who recognise the significance and potential benefits of a European Capital of Culture designation. Two further business engagement events is to take place on Belfast - Friday 29 September @ 8.15-9.45am in Duncairn Centre for Arts & Culture Derry~Londonderry – Tues 3rd Oct @ 8.15am-9.45am in Playhouse Theatre and Arts Centre
Further awareness of the bid has also been achieved through marketing and communications activities including establishment of an online platform
(http://weare2023.eu/) and interactive social and online media activity. This activity
will continue to increase and intensify over the coming months to help build momentum in the run up to the submission deadline.
2.6 Emerging Concept and Themes
Our engagement so far has taken place with over 10,000 citizens across both our cities and started out by focusing on 2 simple questions – what makes you happy and what keeps you awake at night. A trend began to emerge, as for the majority of people, the source of happiness and anxiety had the same roots in family and a sense of ‘home’. In order to develop and test this emerging theme, we decided to ask a third question: what does home mean to you? We discovered that home means many different things – it involves deep connections to other people, feeling respected and respecting others, it’s a source of comfort Page 143 and security and for many it’s an emotional connection. The energy from our engagement placed people and a sense of belonging firmly at the centre of what it means to be @home in Northern Ireland. We can say with assurance that the theme for our bid has been authentically sourced from what the citizens of both our cities told us.
We will continue to test, refine and develop this theme further with our citizens and through cultural location based projects discover new declarations of what being @home means within a local, regional, European and global context, particularly in a post conflict setting on the periphery of Europe and our programme will provide us with the space and places to explore this concept of @Home further.
2.7 Cultural Programme
As well as the civic engagement outlined above the bid team has also delivered a series of events targeting the wider cultural and creative sector to help garner support and facilitate input into the emerging cultural programme. This has included:
Information sessions 6 thematic workshops 4 Big Ideas sessions These sessions have engaged with over 300 people working across the arts, heritage, sport, science and the creative industries.
A creative reference group has been established to include 4 local representatives from both cities. These members were selected following a nomination and application process. This group also includes three international programmers who have previous experience of either developing a bid or delivering a successful European Capital of Culture.
At stage one a number of indicative projects will be presented as part of the bid. In order to select these projects three strands of programme development are in place. This includes:
(i) Open Call: opportunity for anyone to submit projects ideas
Page 144 (ii) Commission: the identification of a number of flagship project ideas based on the themes emerging from the engagement process. A formal commissioning process would take place at subsequent stages. (iii) Curate: the group will identify specific gaps in the programme and make connections with smaller projects from the open call.
Each strand of the cultural programme will have a physical, psychological and social dimension which relates to common European themes. All strands include disruptive and transformative elements which re-vision what it means to be ‘at home’ in 2023.
The open call closed on 6 September 2017 with over 125 project proposals received. All ideas will be retained for stage 2, however, an initial selection will be presented at stage one with further development and refinement of cultural programme proposals during stage 2.
The Creative Reference Group has been extremely impressed by the standard, creativity and relevance of the submissions received to date in terms of synergies with the emerging concept & themes and connection to citizens, artists, cultural organisations and European dimension.
It is anticipated that the cultural programme will comprise of 5 flagship projects and a programme of 30 smaller scale proposals. Each strand of the cultural programme will have a physical, psychological and social dimension which relates to common European themes. All strands include disruptive and transformative elements which re-vision what it means to be ‘at home’ in 2023.
Due to the competitive nature of the competition, a detailed update and presentation on the early stage proposals emerging from this process will be presented and discussed with Members at the parallel meeting on 28 September.
Page 145 2.8 Capacity To Deliver
As part of the bidding process we have assessed our capacity to deliver a European Capital of Culture programme and also examined our accommodation capacity and our transport links. We will build on our existing cultural infrastructure and develop the capacity of our cultural partners to deliver our year long cultural programme. With plans to grow our accommodation sector we will have sufficient accommodation to meet the additional demand that this year will create.
2.9 Outreach
Formal preparation for our bid began through the intensive process of community planning which was rolled out across Northern Ireland in 2015. Through this process, citizens sent a strong message culture, arts and heritage were at the heart of citizens’ lives and the cornerstone of thriving cities.
Currently more than 10,000 citizens have told us what home means to them and we have exceeded our original target of 10,000 engagements by the submission of the Stage 1 bid book. Engagement has been through a variety of means but mainly in places where there are people – train and bus stations, community centres, summer schemes, at festivals and key events, parks and in shopping centres. In recent weeks we have been concentrating on engagement with young people and individuals from ‘harder to reach groups’.
2.10 Cultural Strategy
Page 146 The requirement to have a cultural strategy in place within both cities is a key consideration within the bid book. Both cities are progressing their respective cultural strategies as well as looking at the potential of a joint cultural strategy which will ensure that the cultural activities are sustained beyond the European Capital of Culture year and demonstrates that ECOC is an action within a longer term strategy for each city. A key aspect of this will be the monitoring and evaluation of the year long programme. Work is ongoing with a number of partners to put in place a robust framework that will ensure that social, economic and cultural impacts can be monitored and evaluated in the lead up to, during and after 2023.
2.11 European Dimension
Given that this is a bid for European Capital of Culture over 70% of the cultural programme must have a “European Dimension”. Projects and programmes within the ECOC2023 programme must promote the cultural diversity of Europe, intercultural and greater mutual understanding between European citizens; feature European artists, cooperation with operators or cities, heritage and history, as well as European integration and current European themes; and include a strategy to attract the interest of a broad European and international public.
3 Key Issues
3.1 Candidate City and Partnership Principles
While bids which work with neighbouring cities or regions are now common practice and indeed welcome, the title can be awarded to one city only. Under the rules, which are non -negotiable, one city must take the lead and if successful the lead city will hold the title of European Capital of Culture. The proposed programme and its benefits may however be dispersed across the much wider area.
In the partnership between Belfast and Derry/Londonderry it is the considered opinion of the European external advisors that the strongest proposition is one where Belfast assumes the lead city role primarily due to the relative scale of its cultural and tourism infrastructure, facilities and national and international connectivity.
Page 147 In this context, Belfast would go forward in the bid and thereafter as lead/candidate city “in partnership with Derry and the surrounding area”. On this basis it is viewed that the bid will be highly competitive with the other candidate cities and Belfast and Derry will work together to maximize the opportunity to bring home the prize.
In such a relationship, the following partnership principles are however proposed to reflect the joint working between both cities and their cultural partners:-
Development of a joint cultural programme reflective of the two cities and surrounding areas;
This joint cultural programme to include key flagship projects broadly balanced across the two cities in terms of scale and audience, European and international appeal and significance, cost, benefits and legacy potential;
Other key projects across the cultural programme to be curated, developed and delivered in either city or across the two cities through an agreed and integrated approach promoting collaborations between artists, cultural organisations and venues across the cities, surrounding areas and Europe;
Representation of both cities in all aspects of marketing, promotion and communications including development and use of joint branding as agreed by both councils;
Allocation of financial resources from both councils for the core projects to be broadly equal but can be added to by either city when developing the cultural programmes (ref section 4). This will sit alongside all other sources of funding, sponsorship, prizes etc. secured, which will be allocated to an overall revenue budget to support the development and delivery of the cultural programme in accordance with the above principles;
Page 148 All management and governance arrangements in relation to the bid and delivery of the project if successful to be jointly agreed and developed through a process of co-design and co-location.
All of the above partnership principles to be further developed under a joint memorandum of understanding between both councils to be agreed in due course.
3.2 Branding
Members will be aware that a specific approach and style of branding based around the concept “WeAre2023 - European Capital of Culture Candidate” ” has been used to date to raise awareness, profile and support engagement related activity in relation to the Phase 1 bid development process. McCadden Design has been exploring more specific brand options, taking account of the emerging concept and themes and which will be included on the bid submission and will be rolled out as part of Phase 2 bidding process. Members will be presented with the emerging brand concept at the meeting on 28 September. This brand will have a dual function; initially as a visual identity it will be incorporated into the Stage 1 book and after further developmental work to be approval by Members it will drive our bidding campaign should we be successful at Stage 1 and progress to Stage 2. The brand and brand toolkit will be developed in line with the relevant partnership principles as set out in the section above.
Page 149 3.3 Governance and Management Arrangements
Work is currently underway to develop options in relation to the potential special purpose vehicle and governance arrangements for the delivery of the European Capital Programme. This work is drawing upon best practice models adopted by previous ECOCs as well as lessons learnt from local approaches including UK Capital of Culture 2013 and Tall Ships, etc. Emerging principles are likely to include that it is a separate stand alone company, preferably jointly owned and with relationship NI Government, the cultural sector and citizens.
Any emerging Governance proposals will be further tested and further developed as part of the Phase 2 bidding process and will align to the key partnership principles set out in the section above.
4 Financial, Equality, Legal, HR, Improvement and other Implications
4.1 At stage one of the bidding process it is important to demonstrate the viability of the bid and the capacity of the region to deliver a programme of the required scale including an indicative commitment towards an overall funding model. Further and specific commitment to financial support will be necessary at stage 2 and will be supported by a detailed business case and funding strategy. It is important to recognise that no project of this scale could ever be delivered without the support of government and other key partners.
Being designated European Capital of Culture provides a unique opportunity to promote and showcase the cultural and creative aspects of our cities and surrounding areas and will act as a catalyst to support the social, economic and physical regeneration for the region, supporting investment and job creation, raising the international profile of Northern Ireland and boosting tourism.
Page 150 Appendix 1 attached provides an outline summary of the significant economic, social and physical benefits experienced by other European Capital of Culture Cities. This includes Liverpool 2008 which experienced, and continues benefit from, £745m direct spend in Liverpool and wider region, £4Bn leverage in infrastructural investment, 34% growth in visitors since 2007, and repositioning Liverpool at an international scale as a preferred destination to visit, invest, work and live. Galway has projected that its successful 2020 designation will create €500m of investment and 5,000 new jobs in the next five years, increasing visitor numbers by 40% in 2020 and increasing business start-ups by 15% up until 2025.
A provisional operating budget of £55m (including a £6.5m commitment from both councils - amounting to 21%) is being proposed for the submission at stage 1. This has been benchmarked against spend by other cites who have bid for the designation and takes account of the standard practice adopted whereby around £110 per head of capita is allocated. As the following table shows it is suggested that this be made up of a variety of funding streams with the profiling of spend over a 6-year period (2019–2024).
A project of this scale has the requirement for multiple partners to help finance the overall commitment. The Irish cities for the 2020 competition had the comfort of knowing the winning city would receive 15m euro from the Irish Government. Galway has developed very impressive financial interventions with the private sector including 1% business rate increase and a specially commission beer by Diageo.
The current position in relation to emerging proposals and discussions around key funding streams is set out below.
(i) Council contribution – it is proposed that both councils commit in principle to a £6.5m contribution towards an overall £55m financial strategy to deliver a European Capital of Culture 2023 programme of scale with spend profiled over a 5-year period. This will be subject to a detailed due diligence and business case being brought forward, with affordability secured through a small rate supported element and the prioritisation of a proportion of in-year budget reallocations into a specified fund for European Capital of Culture 2023.
Page 151 (ii) Government – work is underway to secure a joint letter of support from the main NI Executive Party Group Leaders for the Bid including a commitment to work with the councils to progress a detailed business case to underpin the formal request for funding from NI Executive as part of Phase 2. Work is already underway with the Department of Communities and other stakeholders to develop what is required and timescales around such a business case. Work is also underway with the competing UK candidate cities, including Leeds, Dundee, to make a joint request to DCMS to confirm that funding will be allocated to the successful city to support delivery of European Capital of Culture 2023.
(iii) Private Sector – a fundraising strategy is currently being developed and will be brought back to a future meetings of the Committee as part of the phase 2 process. This will include, but not limited to direct sponsorship from private sector as well as considering, in liaison with relevant partners, new innovative mechanisms to develop and embed a longer-term funding legacy to support cultural related activity across both cities. Whilst no firm recommendations are being made at this stage, the type of opportunities under consideration to support both the delivery of the programme as well as creating a long- term legacy include, for example, exploring the potential option and appetite for introducing 2023 cultural hotel bed night tax etc. To help further develop our thinking and support around emerging options, a business leadership forum is being established.
5 Recommendations
Members are asked to:
(i) Approve the concept, themes and emerging cultural programme etc. as set out in this paper and parallel paper and presentation in closed business as a basis for the submission of the final bid documents by the deadline of October 27th . (ii) Endorse the proposal that Belfast assumes the role of Lead City/Candidate City ‘in partnership with Derry and the surrounding area’ to develop and deliver this major transformational opportunity for this place and that this strong, innovative and collaborative approach is underpinned by the key partnership principles set out in Section 4.1 of this report in relation to programming, marketing and communications, finance and resources and management and governance.
Page 152 (iii) Budget Commitment – Commit in principle to a £6.5m contribution towards an overall £55m financial strategy to deliver a European Capital of Culture 2023 programme of scale with spend profiled over a 5-year period. This will be subject to a detailed due diligence and business case being brought forward, with affordability likely to be supported through a small rate supported element and the prioritisation of a proportion of in-year budget reallocations into a specified fund for European Capital of Culture. (iv) Agree that the officer team continue to finalise the final detailed and technical content of the Phase I framework (bid book) submission, subject to discussion and input from Members at meeting on 28 September, for submission to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sports (DCMS) by 27 October 2017 deadline as the part of the two staged bid process.
Background Papers Appendix 1
Summary table of the Core Result Indicators for the Objective: Support the Social and Economic Development of the City through Culture of the European Capitals of Culture from 2011 to 2015
Page 153 City Result Indicator - € value of Result Indicator - % increase in investment in cultural tourists infrastructure, sites and facilities Turku, Finland 2011 n/a 7% increase in overnight stays; 17% increase when day tourism taken into account Tallinn, Estonia 2011 €195M of associated investments 17% increase in foreign tourist visits by the Ministry of Culture in the to Tallinn in 2011 compared to 2010 years 2008-10
Guimarães, Portugal €41.7m investment in cultural 107% increase in tourist visits 2012 infrastructure, sites and facilities: 60% increase in international visitors to tourist information centres
27% increase in average room occupancy rates
Maribor, Slovenia 2012 N/A 163% increase in daily visitors 20% increase in the number of overnight stays €40m additional spend Estimate of €42m - €51m of added value and a return on investment of around 4:1 for each Euro of
additional public investment in ECoC
(University of Ljubliana)
Marseille-Provence, Total investment in 11% increase in the number France 2013 infrastructure of €665m of tourist visits to Bouches- including new venues, du-Rhône renovation and a 17% increase in international museum extension tourist visits 9% increase in hotel nights 22% increase in cruise passengers arriving at the Port of Marseille 25% increase in tourism tax receipts collected by the City of Marseille. New visitors accounted for 36% of visitors, twice the rate in 2011
Kosice, Slovakia 2013 €78m (€59m from European From 2012 to 2013 Regional Development Fund) Page 154 on 20 cultural & public capital 17% increase in “staying” investment projects (including visitors (31% increase on new facilities for ECoC, 2009) renovations and extensions) 19.5% increase in foreign visitors 10.4% increase in overnight stays (30% increase on 2009) 37.8% increase spend on accommodation
Riga, Latvia 2014 Responsibility for infrastructure Despite a weak international projects remained with the State marketing campaign, findings from & municipal authorities including the Central Statistics Bureau show renovation and new build. No that the number of foreign tourists figures available. visiting Latvia increased by 18.9% in the first half of 2014.
Umea, Sweden 2014 Umeå has invested € 393m on From 2013-2014: infrastructure over the period 2009-2014, of which € 138m has 21% increase in hotel nights specifically been spent on cultural 24% increase in all tourist infrastructure. accommodation (including hostels) 10% increase in hotel occupancy at weekends
Mons, Belgium 2015 €143.5M associated investments 5 fold increase in visits to the including park, museum, design tourist office during 2015, house, congress hall and other reaching 250,000 projects (some involving At least €75m in additional upgrading, some new build). expenditure by all tourists Pilsen, Czech Republic €48.6M associated investments 1.4M visitors attended ECoC 2015 including a new theatre, leisure events in 2015 a 28% increase centre, greenway, improvements on the 2 years prior to 2015. to arts and cultural buildings and the reconstruction of a creative zone. Source: ECORYS Ex Post Evaluations of European Capitals of Culture published by the European Commission DG Education and Culture
Page 155 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 11
Title of Report: Officer Presenting: Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer Annual Performance Report 2016/17 Author: As above
1 Purpose of Report/Recommendations
1.1 To advise Members of the updated Performance Report for 2016/17.
1.2 To invite Members' consideration and approval of the Annual Performance Report 2016/17, attached as Appendix 1.
2 Background
2.1 At the September meeting of the Governance and Strategic Planning Committee, Members considered and recommended for approval the Annual Performance Report 2016/17.
2.2 This report has subsequently been updated to reflect additional information that has been made available.
3 Key Issues
3.1 The additional information reflected in the updated Annual Performance Report highlights Council’s achievements in respect of the business start-up programme and provides contextual information in regard to performance against the statutory planning performance indicators.
Page 157 4 Financial, Equality, Legal, HR, Improvement and other Implications
4.1 It is a requirement under Part 12 (Performance Improvement) of the Local Government Act (Northern Ireland) 2014, Section 90, for each council to publish an assessment of its performance during 2016/17 before 30th September 2017.
5 Recommendations
5.1 That subject to Members' comments, to approve for publication, the Annual Performance Report 2016/17, attached as Appendix 1.
Background Papers
Page 158 Page 159 Page
Derry City and Strabane District Council
Annual Performance Report 2016/17
1 Performance Report
Contents
Introduction
Performance Improvement under the Local Government Act 2014 What is Improvement? Recording and reporting progress
Page 160 Page Planning, Improvement and Performance Review Framework
How we have performed – Review of Performance for 2016/17
Corporate plan Objectives - Key achievements 2016/17 Improvement Objectives - Performance 2016/17 Performance Improvement Areas / Criteria Financial Performance 2016/17
Statutory Indicators
Introduction Statutory Performance Indicators and Standards 2016/17 Performance
Publishing our Performance
How to get involved
2 Introduction
Performance Improvement under the Local Government Act 2014
Part 12 of the Local Government Act (NI) 2014 puts in place a framework to support continuous improvement in the delivery of council services, in the context of strategic objectives and issues that are important to those who receive those services. Councils are required to gather information to assess improvements in their services and to issue a report annually on their performance against indicators which they have either set themselves or that have been set by Government Departments.
The Act also places a responsibility on councils to make arrangements to secure continuous improvement in the exercise of their functions. Page 161 Page What is Improvement?
‘Improvement’ means more than just gains in service output or efficiency, or the internal effectiveness of the Council. It is about activity that enhances the sustainable quality of life and environment for ratepayers and communities. Derry City and Strabane District Council is committed to ensuring that our improvement objectives are relevant, that the best arrangements for delivering them are in place, and that we can understand and demonstrate the impact on the outcomes for citizens.
In our 2016/17 Corporate and Improvement Plan, Derry City and Strabane District Council set out a number of improvement objectives/commitments under the headings of:
Business and Culture Environment and Regeneration Health and Communities Cross functional Support Services;
and identified a number of local improvement indicators as well as the seven statutory performance indicators/standards.
3 Recording and reporting progress
Section 90 of the Act requires each council to collect information which will allow it to assess its performance in achieving its improvement objectives and to measure its performance against performance indicators or standards set by the Department or any other indicators or standards which the council chooses to use.
Accordingly, Derry City and Strabane District Council collects evidence of progress in achieving our improvement objectives during the year. Evidence may include one or more of the following:
performance indicators, both those set by the Council and by Government Departments; qualitative information such as citizen satisfaction surveys conducted by the Council or by other bodies; progress in introducing or completing programmes, facilities or ways of working which contribute to the attainment of Page 162 Page improvement objectives; the outcome of governance or scrutiny enquiries and other evidence from Members; and any other sources of evidence, (including Council’s annual governance, value for money and sustainability statements etc., that appear to be relevant.
Derry City and Strabane District Council will use this information to determine if action is required to improve performance by assessing, where appropriate, its performance against:
1. a previous year’s performance; and 2. as far as is practicable, with the performance of other councils in the exercise of the same or similar functions.
The Council will publish the assessment and comparison information, where appropriate, relating to its performance before 30 September immediately following the financial year to which it relates.
4 Planning, Improvement and Performance Review Framework
The Council has many plans at strategic and operational levels, some of which are based on local needs and others that are required as a result of legislation.
The highest level plan, once completed, will be the community plan, entitled the “Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan 2017-2032” for the Derry City and Strabane District Council area. This strategy recognises that community planning is about people and organisations working together to improve services and to bring about sustainable improvements in the quality of life of local citizens, businesses and other stakeholders. As well as the Council, the “Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan 2017-2032” will also involve the commitment and resources of multi-agency partnerships whose purpose is to deliver the community plan objectives.
Delivery of the vision and objectives set out in the “Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan 2017-2032” will be supported through the expression of objectives, priorities and actions in the Corporate Plan of Derry City and Strabane District Council (and the corporate Page 163 Page plans of other stakeholder organisations).
Pending the completion of the Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan 2017-2032, the Council agreed a Corporate Plan for 2015/16 following a wide ranging engagement process. The Corporate Plan 2017/18 continues to reflect the mission and objectives set out in the Corporate Plan 2015/16 pending the finalisation of the Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan 2017-2032, following consultation.
As we did last year, annual Directorate Delivery Plans have been prepared to help ensure that those priorities set out at a corporate level are cascaded to and actioned. Work is also being progressed on defining individual contributions to the delivery of directorate and team plans and ultimately the Corporate Plan through our evolving employee development and appraisal process.
The Council also prepares an annual Improvement Plan containing improvement objectives, and monitors its performance throughout the year. Progress on the achievement against these objectives is set out in this report and is made available publically.
In addition to these corporate management plans, plans will also continue to be developed in relation to thematic/service specific issues, for example, in relation to our capital development programme. Furthermore, the Local Development Plan (LDP) will guide
5 the future use of land in the Council area and inform developers, members of the general public, communities, government, public bodies, representative organisations and other interests of the policy framework that is used to determine development proposals.
The LDP will take account of the Council’s Community Plan, providing a spatial expression to the community plan and thereby linking public and private sector investment through the land use planning system.
The planning and improvement framework outlined above comprising the “Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan 2017-2032”, Corporate Plan, Performance Improvement Plan and Directorate Plans is augmented by a performance review framework which includes:
At a district wide level – a two yearly Area Performance Report which measures the district’s performance against the shared outcomes set out in the Strategic Community Plan
Page 164 Page At a Council level, an Annual Performance Report which sets out what we have achieved in the previous year and how we have met our performance improvement duty. At a directorate level, six monthly progress reports and directorate service delivery plans provide information on how we are performing. At an individual level, annual personal development and appraisal reviews.
The diagram below shows the key elements of the planning, improvement and performance review framework. The highlighted box represents this document – the Annual Performance Report.
6 Corporate Planning, Improvement and Performance Review Framework (2017/18)
Derry City and Strabane District Council Area: Plans and Performance Review
“Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan 2017-2032”. The District’s Derry City and Strabane District – 2 yearly Area Performance integrated plan captures the shared outcomes for the Report. Measures the district’s performance against the area. shared outcomes set out in the “Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan 2017-2032”. Council: Plans and Performance Review
Derry City and Strabane District Council – Corporate Plan 2017/18 The Corporate Plan captures the Council’s contribution to the “Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan 2017-2032”. The resources required Page 165 Page are reflected in the Annual Rates Estimates.
Improvement Plan 2017/18 Annual Performance Report 2016/17 Improvement Objectives 2017/18 for the forthcoming Sets out what we have achieved in the previous year and year how we have met our performance improvement duty. Directorate: Plans and Performance Review
Directorate Delivery Plans Directorate delivery plans demonstrate how the Corporate Plan will be delivered and contains details about the work of the Directorate, its resources and how it is performing. Supported by six monthly progress reports.
Individual: Development Plans and Performance Review Personal Performance and Development Reviews This captures the individual’s contribution to Directorate and team plans.
7 How we have performed - Review of Performance for 2016/ 17
This section sets out details of how the Council has performed in 2016/17, in four areas:
Key achievements in delivering our Corporate Plan Objectives; Progress in delivering our Improvement Objectives identified on our Improvement Plan 2016/17 Progress in relation to performance improvement areas/ criteria Financial performance for 2016/17
Corporate Plan Objectives - Key Achievements 2016/17 Page 166 Page Our Corporate Plan 2016/17 identified four strategic objectives:
Protect our environment and deliver physical regeneration Grow our business and facilitate cultural development Promote healthy communities Provide effective and facilitative cross functional services.
These corporate objectives align to the three pillars of the “Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan 2017-2032”, namely environmental wellbeing, economic wellbeing and social wellbeing.
Key achievements, under each of the Corporate Plan Objectives are highlighted below:
Objective: Protect our environment and deliver physical regeneration
Completed £5m regeneration of Brooke Park. Since opening the Park has seen visitor numbers more than doubled compared to before the regeneration.
8 Completed new £1.5m recycling centre at Pennyburn Completed new play areas at Rose Court, Irish Street & Fountain Commenced construction of new £5.9m Brandywell stadium and dog racing track Submitted planning application for new £10m Maritime Museum Processed Building Control applications with a construction value of more than £171m Issued more than 1340 planning decisions, with more than 92% approved and including planning permission for more than 2800 homes Since transfer of Planning Service to Council in April 2015 reduced number of legacy applications from 525 to less than 70 (40 as of September 2017) Progressed the preparation of the Local Development Plan with significant stakeholder engagement and preparation of the preferred options paper Undertook a Built Heritage District Maintenance and Education Programme in Derry City and Newtownstewart
Page 167 Page Prepared and submitted a PEACE IV application for an €8m shared space community park and pedestrians bridge from Strabane to Lifford (The Riverine Project) Secured resources for a dedicated Heritage Officer to progress a Heritage Strategy for the district Completed the restoration of Culmore Landfill Site which has now opened as a Lough Side country park within approximately 5km of pathway network. Upgraded the festive lighting in Derry City Centre, Sion Mills, Newtownstewart, Strabane and Castlederg Won a number of regional and national awards including Ulster in Bloom, Britain in Bloom, Pride in our City and Best Kept City for Grounds Maintenance and Street Cleaning Services
In terms of environmental services, we have been responsible for:
Collecting approximately 4.5 million domestic refuse collection bins Keeping approximately 1500km of streets clean Cutting grass the equivalent of more than 7600 full-size sports pitches and Planting more than 1300 floral displays (approximately 160,000 bedding plants).
9 Objective: Grow our business and facilitate cultural development
Economic Development & Job Creation Secured £404,800 funding from Invest NI/ ERDF re. Business Boost Programme Delivery of more than 171 Jobs Promoted Secured £15,000 Invest NI Collaborative Network funding for NI Manufacture Forum Secured £10,000 sponsorship from Virgin Media re. Enterprise Week 2017 programme Re-launched the Walled City markets – 32 Traders Established Delivery of Enterprise Week 2016 programme – 1600 participants/60 events Delivery of ‘Yes’ vote for Strabane BID Page 168 Page
City & Regional Investment & Opportunity Council leading Ireland Northwest Trade and Investment Mission to Boston Massachusetts in partnership with Donegal County Council Supporting business case for overseas company Bemis to establish European Business Services Centre in city creating 95 jobs Supporting 3 Investor visits resulting in FDI for City Region and creation of 111 jobs (2 x GB based software companies Launchpad, PeopleSafe and US medical packaging firm Bemis) Regional investment proposition developed for Ireland Northwest in collaboration with Donegal County Council including Ireland Northwest investment prospectus
Rural Development Approval of Interim Rural Development Strategy for Derry & Strabane by DAERA for £7.54 million funding until 2020; Opening of two Rural Business Investment Scheme calls and approval of 9 grants totaling £322,869, creating 15.5 FTE new jobs; Derry City & Strabane District Council nominated as lead partner for International Appalachian Trail rural cooperation project with Donegal, Fermanagh & Omagh, Mid Ulster, Causeway Coast & Glens and Mid & East Antrim (best practice visit to Scotland with 5 Councils in October 2016)
10 Employment, Skills & Training The development of an employability and skills pipeline to ensure resident skills match the needs of the labour market; Improving accessibility to employment opportunities for those furthest from the labour market; Working in partnership with key stakeholders to ensure a full programme of support and intervention to target the needs of key client groups;
PEACE Programme Completion of extensive community consultation process (42 sessions including 7 public events, 180 participants, 10 statutory agencies) Securing of draft Letter of Offer awarding £6,122,713 in January 2017
Page 169 Page Marketing Delivered the City and District Dressing Scheme Development of re-brand for Leisure
Festival and Events A total of 16 events and 10 Tea Dances were delivered within Tier I Festivals and Events during 2016/17 attracting 395,000 visitors Hosted international Clipper Race fleet as part of the award winning Foyle Maritime Festival 2016 attracting 163,576 visitors, selling Facilitated 22,096 bed nights and securing £3.5million boost to local economy during nine day event. Halloween Festival 2015 shortlisted for Best Festival Event Experience at Northern Ireland Tourism Awards and event celebrated 30th in October 2016 attracting around 75,000 people visiting and attending events during 4 day programme. Increased investment in Strabane based events Summer Jam and NW Angling Fair resulted in significant returns and success Designed and delivered an open process for Tier 2 Events Fund in line with community planning outcomes that will see the funding of £166,000 across 11 events in the 2017/18 year.
11 Tourism Awarded both Destination Delicious Award and Best NI Food Event or Festival at Tourism NI's Year of Food and Drink Awards 2016 NITA Tourism Hero Award CIM Awards and Runner Up Foodie Destination Ireland 2016 (Restaurants Association of Ireland) Delivered 4 festivals, including NI’s first Slow Food Festival, attracting 91,000 visitors in total throughout the year as part of extensive NI Year of Food & Drink programme. Secured £476,000 and €210,928 funding for programmes deliverable up until 2020
Arts and Culture Page 170 Page Management of the Alley Arts & Conference Centre securing in excess of 82,000 visitors with more than 200 days of programmed events. This included the delivery of a range of events to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the Alley in March 2017. Secured ACNI Challenge Fund to deliver key note programmes including Youth Arts Development, Festivals Engagement, Audience Development and Visual Arts Residency Programmes. Delivery of inaugural Access & Inclusion conference to coincide with European Day of persons with disabilities,
Museum and Visitor Services Visitor numbers to Council attractions have increased by 7% with a total of 358,495 visitors during 2016/17 and bookings have increased by 68% resulting in a total of 677 bookings during 2016/17 Delivery of 4 Museum Visitor Services events U-Boat (May 2016), Guildhall Organ event (June), Archaeology Event (July 2016),Halloween Ghost Tours (Oct 2016) and Christmas Activities (Dec 2016) Receipt of £500k funding for the Maritime Museum Project Delivery of 1916 “Unfutold Stories” Exhibition June-Nov 2016 & Laurentic Exhibition Jan 2017 Initiated a Reminiscence Outreach programme working with local groups such as Western Trust, Alzheimer’s Society and the Verbal Arts Centre. Tower Museum Accreditation submission complete
12 TNI 4 * grading achieved for Guildhall and Tower Museum
Objective: Promote healthy communities
Community Development Undertaken strategic reviews of community centre provision, grant aid and service level agreements 10 Sustainability Plans for rural areas completed. Design processes for 6 new capital build community centres progressed 8 draft local community plans developed with 56 consultations workshops completed with voluntary and statutory partners Peace IV: £472,805 funding secured under ‘One Community’ and ‘Building Positive Relations’.
Page 171 Page Advice Services: £815,477 awarded to Generalist Advice providers Community Development Grant Aid Programme: £364,881 awarded. Good Relations Grant Aid Programme: £188,000 awarded. Shared Space Stage 1 application developed and submitted to SEUPB for Waterside Shared Space Village (c.£5M)
Policing and Community Safety Partnership Increased financial leverage ratios to 2:1: £770,230 of external funding secured. £160,000.00 of funding secured 18 additional CCTV Cameras Project support funding of £270,447.97 awarded for local community safety projects. 38 Neighborhood Watch Schemes supported. Over 10,000 patrols carried out by Community Safety Wardens. Received and actioned over 1000 Anti-Social Behaviour Referrals to Community Safety Warden.
Leisure and Sport Services £ 6 million Brandywell Stadium Capital Development – Contractor commenced work Dec 2016. Design development and planning secured for new Melvin 3G pitch project
13 Design Team procurement for new leisure facilities in Templemore and Strabane commenced Design teams appointed for Leafair and Corrody Road projects. £250,000 reinvestment secured for leisure sites and pitches. Leisure user visitor numbers (paid visits) increased by over 5% to 917,735+ users per year. New Everybody Active Programme launched with over 10,000 participants for target groups achieved in year 1. New 4 week Summer Sports Camp Programme with over 250 participants per week Council wide Physical Activity Referral Scheme with over 450 special population participants per year. Implementation of Athlete Support Membership Council wide. Implementation of new ‘Sprit of 2012 Get out Get Active’ Disability Programme. Sports Grant Aid of £60,000 awarded to local clubs. New standardised swimming lesson programme developed and launched Page 172 Page New booking system and financial procedures introduced in all leisure facilities. New Brooke Park Sports Centre Opened in December 2016. 400 homes fitted with additional home security equipment.
Health & Community Wellbeing The Council area was designated as a member of the WHO Healthy Cities Network for Phase VI (2014-2018)- May 2016 146 New food business operators supported and premises inspections carried out. Conducted 708 Food Hygiene inspections including 61 FHRS revisits for re-rating Successful implementation of the mandatory Food Hygiene Rating Scheme with 7 advisory clinics held prior to introduction 420 planned priority health and safety inspections; 170 advisory/compliance visits; 200 new premises registrations; and 49 reportable accidents 3696 environmental health services requests investigated and actioned in accordance with Council enforcement policies Blind cord safety video produced and launched on social media with more than 2 million views in Australia alone Sunbed Test purchase exercise for under age use and fixed penalties issued and test purchase exercise for butane sales undertaken £2,266,972 of energy improvements for 506 homes under the Affordable Warmth Scheme 609 Home Safety visits carried out by Home Assessment Officers £182,711.58 external funding secured to support service delivery
14 112 festivals and events reviewed for health and safety good practice by the inter agency Safety Advisory Group; 223 Entertainment Licence Applications processed 47 Local Air Pollution Prevention and Control (LAPPC) installations permitted, ongoing Air quality monitoring 441 completed planning consultation responses issued to the Planning Department 9 schools and 1,000 children participate in a schools educational programme 7029 dog licences issued (including 222 block licences) 443 Fixed Penalty Notices(FPN) issued for no dog licence 110 Fixed Penalty Notices issued for dog straying /fouling 323 animal welfare cases identified with 601 animal welfare officer visits, 6 Improvement Notices and 2 Prosecutions 10,400 clients were looked after by the Registration Staff. 12 Approved Marriage venues inspected. Page 173 Page
Objective: Provide effective and facilitative cross functional support services
Our strategic support services have also made significant progress during the year and we have:
Assurance
Acted as Lead Council in respect of regional collaborative insurance tender, resulting in 12½% reduction in Council’s annual insurance premiums and brokerage costs. Successful procurement exercise completed and significant financial and legal issues resolved to ensure successful appointment of an airline to operate a Public Service Obligation route from City of Derry Airport to London Stansted. £7m of funding secured from NI Executive for air route development and infrastructure. Completion of planned audit work based on the approved audit plan and completion of unplanned work as required in order to provide appropriate levels of assurance to the Chief Executive, the Assurance, Audit & Risk Committee and the Northern Ireland Audit Office. Delivery of Fraud Awareness Training to 120 staff in the organisation.
15 Development, communication and training of staff in a number of key policies for the organisation – Counter Fraud, Whistleblowing, Anti-Bribery and Conflicts of Interest. Delivery of Procurement Training to 115 staff in the organisation. Streamlining of procurement procedures and processes. Valuation of all Council properties completed. Continued savings realised in the very successful self-insurance programme. Retention of the Health & Safety OHSAS 18001 accreditation. Reduction in the number of RIDDOR incidents. Fully integrated Payroll section. Payroll statutory reporting deadlines met and all staff paid correctly in accordance with agreed pay scales. Completion of a number of very successful emergency exercises. Page 174 Page All emergency situations responded to in an appropriate manner. Year-end accounts for 2015/16 completed and audited in line with required timeframe. Rates estimates for 2017/18 completed by statutory deadline of 15th February 2017 including benchmarking of service costs, penny product and growth comparisons and medium term financial plan. Phase 2 efficiency plan target of £2m achieved. Delivery of training to Elected Members on finance, rates setting, audit, standing orders and chairing of meetings. Asset review completed to identify assets with development potential as part of investment proposition for city and region. Tight financial management and monitoring to identify £1.3m surplus at January 2017. Draft Council constitution presented to Council and approved.
Legacy
One of four bids shortlisted for European Youth Capital for 2019 The Council engaged with more than 10,000 young people in the design and development of the European Youth Capital bid thereby helping to achieve the Corporate Plan objective of Promote Healthy Communities and the Service Delivery Outcome of Opportunities created for engaging with children and young people and targeting services at key areas of need.
Strategic Partnerships
16 Positioning Derry and Strabane within a wider regional and global economic context. North West Strategic Growth Partnership - Constitutional, financial arrangements and partnership agreement agreed Hosting meetings of North West Regional Development Group Meeting Implementation of the North West Development Fund. Development and agreement of high level strategic growth plan for Derry/Strabane and Donegal NW Trade delegation to Boston. Hosting and presenting at a range of regional conferences. Publication and launch of report on the impact of Brexit on the North West City Region. Ongoing drafting of the Strategic inclusive Growth Plan/Community Plan and its eight outcome based storyboards Development of a draft partnership agreement and the leading and facilitating Transition Community Planning Partnership Meetings/events Arranging the successful 2016 staff engagement event Administering £0.5m of community planning grant aid funding from Department for Communities Developing and seeking approval of corporate consultation responses on the Programme for Government
Page 175 Page Presentations to key stakeholders and statutory partners on the community planning process Arrangement of OBA training for senior team and strategic partnership members
Democratic Services and Improvement
Facilitating the Dementia Champions training in partnership with “Connecting Talent” – 65 participants will have successfully completed the training at the end of training period (May 2017) Establishment of the Equality Assurance and Oversight Group to oversee the implementation of the Community Plan in line with commitments made to achieve the stated outcomes. 6 meetings held to date Transphobia Photographic exhibition in Tower Museum –This event was a photographic exhibition of well-known personalities in Northern Ireland who support the "Wipe Out Transphobia" campaign. The images included those of MEPs, MPs and MLAs, leaders of various political parties, Nobel Laureates, broadcasters, academics, and senior public figures. This event is part of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Festival programme Finalist in the inaugural Legal Island – Equality and Diversity Awards 2016/17 94% customer satisfaction rate with Irish Language Services 773 subscribers to Irish Language Facebook Community Information Page
17 Delivered the 6th series of Island Voices to commemorate the Decade of Centenaries and in particular 1916-2016 and partnered with The Nerve Centre to deliver a schools education programme which oversaw the creation of 1916 storyboards and comic books using the latest iPad technology (Nov 2016) Entered into partnership with Libraries NI to collaborate on language and cultural initiatives and jointly secured funding from Clár na Leabhar Gaeilge (Irish Language Agency) to deliver a lecture featuring Irish language writer and broadcaster Cathal Póirtéir (Dec 2017) Partnered with local learning disability organisation Destined to deliver an Irish language Christmas event at their Foyle Valley Railway Museum location (Dec 2016) Delivered the 2nd year of a partnership project with the RSPB to introduce dual language educational programmes to Irish medium schools in the Derry/Strabane area (Jan 2017) Supported Translink in a recent initiative to consult with the public on pilot scheme to introduce bilingual destination screens Page 176 Page on buses in the Foyle network (Feb 2017) Partnered with a range of organisations in the Derry/Strabane area to co-ordinate and deliver events in support of Irish Language Week 2016 (March 2017) Introduction of new postal arrangements to reduce costs Took a lead role in shaping and introducing a benchmarking facility for council services Successfully secured and hosted the APSE Annual Seminar and Awards which attracted approximately 500 visitors to the area Rolled out mandatory and non- mandatory training in relation to information management Introduced new policies in respect of safeguarding, customer care, information management Mayor’s Charity 2015/16– raised £16,000 for Alzheimers through various events and over £14,000 to date for 2016/17 Success and positive feedback for arrange of civic events and initiatives including Civic Centenary Dinner – April 2016 Increased numbers for Local Democracy Week – October 2016 Successful reaccreditation of the Member Development Charter Implementation of a corporate Telephone Reporting System Recognised as good practice in the resettlement of refugees
Human Resources
18 Organisational Design & Effective Resourcing • Substructure reviews almost completed for all sections • Voluntary Severance progressed across all sections • Procurement exercise completed for agency workers • Living Wage implemented • Process agreed with Trade Unions to progress Holiday/Overtime entitlement
Healthy Workplace • BeWell launched and a number of health and wellbeing initiatives progressed • Employee health benefit scheme extended to include all employees • An Attendance Policy agreed with Trade Unions • Processes implemented to tackle absence including regular monitoring and reporting Page 177 Page • Absence level reduced from 7.9% to 6.9%
Employee Relations & Staff Engagement • Staff engagement and staff recognition events held • Staff surveys carried out on Staff recognition and Health & Wellbeing • Improved employee relations in many sections • Reduction in number of issues progressing to formal grievance
Employment Policy • Key HR policies Developed and an awareness training provided • Flexi System implemented in both Council offices
Organisational Development • Induction programme developed and launched • E Learning platform developed and courses promoted
19 • Heads of Service and Senior Managers participating in Leadership academy • Review of post entry training completed and policy updated.
Communications / engagement with the public 2016/17 also saw hugely successful PR campaigns for Council organised events such as the Foyle Maritime Festival, where 656 press items were placed and a media value of over £700,000 was achieved, the Clipper Race Kitchens in itself securing almost 90 items of coverage and achieving £98,000 worth of media value. Over 220 media placements were secured for the Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival, achieving a media value of over £300,000, the City of Derry Jazz Festival attracted 252 items of coverage to a value of £225,000, while the Fashion Fest had 47 placements and achieved almost £25,000 media value. Page 178 Page
In overall terms, the Council made positive progress in 2016/17 in working towards its Mission of “Delivering improved social, economic and environmental outcomes for everyone”.
20 Improvement Objectives - Performance 2016/17
In our Improvement Plan 2016/17 we set ourselves five Improvement Objectives. Details of each of these objectives, what we aimed to achieve and the progress we made during 2016/17 are set out in the table below:
Improvement What did we aim to achieve? What we achieved in 2016/17 Objective Target Outcomes Source IP 2016/17 Source IP 2016/17 Source – 2016/17 Quarterly reports, IP 2017/18 & annual plans 2017/18 To help people A 5% increase in the number of An increase in the number of participant experiences in develop long, participant experiences in leisure, leisure, sport and healthy living activity in 2016/17 from healthy and sport and healthy living activity in 874,034 to 918,256
Page 179 Page fulfilling lives by 2016/17 ( 2015/16 baseline : 874,034 11,000 participants registered on database over a 10 month increasing ) period achieved. Pro rata participation from targeted groups participation in 12,763 participants from targeted engaged (targets with 6,000 women and girls, 1,300 people high quality leisure, groups engaged (7,147 women and with a disability, 4,000 people in high social need) in leisure sport and healthy girls, 1,914 people with a disability, and sports development activity via the Everybody Active living activity. 4,084 people in high social need) in 2020 on target. 3,500 participants have sustained their leisure and sports development participation in sport. activity via the Everybody Active 366 participants with a disability taking part in the Spirit of 2020. As part of this there is a target 2012 ( target 252)– Get Out Get Active Disability Programme of 3,729 participants sustaining their 510 Physical activity referrals participation in sport. 273 participants weekly on summer scheme programme 252 participants with a disability Disability sports hub in place taking part in the Spirit of 2012 – Get Increased and improved provision of leisure and sports Out Get Active Disability Programme facilities ( medium term target) – Brandywell on site; Melvin Increased and improved provision of 3G , Corrody Road and Leafair pitches due on site; Design leisure and sports facilities in the
21 Derry City and Strabane District team appointment underway for new leisure centre Council areas (medium term target) development; facility strategy in final draft Funding secured for 3 year Macmillan Cancer programme - £120k Peace Sports programme funding secured for 17/18 programme; North West sports bid developed Age Friendly activity programme delivered through partnership working Streamlined school swimming programme in place- 3,000 child places delivered Legend system has been extended to all key leisure sites to Page 180 Page streamline data collection from 2017/18 onwards.
We are carrying this Improvement Objective forward into 2017/18 as the baseline health and participation indicators suggests that the overall situation remains relatively static over a number of years and given the nature of the outcomes a long term approach is required to generate the level of behavioural change required. This will require a collaborative approach with a range of stakeholders not least with the wider health family. The community plan highlights this aspiration of developing long, healthy and fulfilling lives. The Council commitment to doing so includes the development of strategic leisure provision within the West bank of Derry and in Strabane with the development of new leisure centre facilities valued at circa 50m and the development of sports and healthy living activity.
22 To deliver An increase in customer satisfaction Worked with telephony service provider to establish a call improved customer levels for the council offices from 61% handling reporting system satisfaction by to 70% Collated baseline information across all front line services, improving Increased levels of positive feedback including arrangements over lunchtimes customer support from those achieved in 2015/16 Prepared internal telephony directory to facilitate call services and handling processes. Provided briefings to staff an customer care Produced reports on customer feedback for management review Provided world Host training to front line staff Increased levels of positive feedback recorded Achieved high satisfaction levels for the provision of
Page 181 Page support services in a survey of Elected Members (A survey on customer satisfaction levels for the Council offices was deferred due to the progression of an office reconfiguration project which would have potentially distorted findings.)
We are carrying this Improvement Objective forward to 2017/18 as: We value our stakeholders and recognise the importance of providing accessible, customer focused services We recognise that more work is required to achieve improved processes / satisfaction levels We wish to work towards a recognised framework for customer excellence
23 To support Medium Term Funding Strategy 3 year medium term plan included as part of rates estimates Council’s developed to deliver the Community including high level Funding Strategy to deliver key Council investment and Plan. aspirations (capital and revenue) within the Community Plan capital aspirations Capital projects completed by new Council since inception by developing (1) a (mostly commenced by legacy Councils) of £35.146m of fully scoped list of which £16.156m has been secured from external sources. options for Capital projects approved, in progress and fully financed by Council’s Phase 2 the new Council totalling £41.879m of which £29.5m has efficiency plan (to been or is to be secured from external sources. build on the £1.5m £2.045m recurrent savings identified as part of the Phase 2 realised in Phase 1) efficiency plan to fund the Council’s growth ambitions Page 182 Page and (2) a costing and funding strategy for Council’s Community Plan once finalised. To increase Improved quality of planning and This is a three year performance improvement objective and sustainable building control submissions, significant progress has been made during 2016/17. The team development Reduced number of invalid have undertaken engagement with local agents to gauge through enabling applications support and to consider the potential for a fast tracked system higher quality Increased speed of processing of for application approval where all key information is submitted planning and planning and building control at the time of initial validation. Improvements have been made building control applications to the websites for the services to provide additional submissions Improved quality of pre-application information. Economically significant resulting in a more discussions related to submissions applications are prioritised to ensure that they progress as fast integrated and Reduced number of complaints. as possible and that the teams contribute to the economic effective Planning regeneration of the
24 and Building Improved liaison between Building region and a cross-departmental working group has been Control system and Control and Planning department established to explore ways of integrating the services and quality outputs. teams processes further.
To grow Business 196 Business Plan Approvals by 31st For 2016/17, the Council set local targets in relation to business Start Ups by 5% in March 2017 start- ups which exceeded those identified by the Department 2016/17 focusing 147 Jobs Promoted by 31st March for the Economy. on the priority 2017 sectors identified in By the end of the year the business start up programme the Integrated delivered a total of 226 Approved Business Plans. This Economic Strategy represents 14% increase in our Approved Business Plan target. for Derry &
Page 183 Page Strabane. The programme delivered a total of 171 Jobs Promoted. This represented a 14% increase in our Jobs Promoted target.
25 Performance Improvement Areas / Criteria
The Local Government Act (Northern Ireland) 2014 requires that councils make arrangements to secure continuous improvement in the carrying out of its activities and highlights the following improvement areas /criteria:
Strategic effectiveness Service quality Service availability Fairness Sustainability, Efficiency, and Page 184 Page Innovation.
Work is currently being progressed, in liaison with other Councils and the Association for Public Sector Excellence to identify relevant indicators for performance measurement and benchmarking purposes, in relation to service delivery and improvement criteria, as appropriate, including identifying and quantifying customer views. Work is also being progressed in terms of linking corporate and service indicators to the outcomes set out in the community plan.
Performance indicators are also identified within our annual Directorate Plans and whilst our performance measurement approaches, data collection and analysis systems are evolving and baselines are being established, there is initial evidence of quantifiable improvements being made across a number of areas. Examples include:
Improvement Area Performance Indicator 2015/16 2016/17 Comment Performance Performance Strategic effectiveness Number of visitors to museum sites 313,156 335,430 Up 7% Number of leisure users 874,034 918,256 Up 5%
26 Service quality % Elected member satisfaction with support 93% 97% Up 4% services Service availability Number home safety visits carried out 400 609 Up 52% Number of house inspections carried out 34 42 Up 24% under the Private Tenancies Order Sustainability Income generated through museums £96,918.48 £137,357.31 Up 42% Efficiency % of staff receiving payslips via email 27% 42% Up 56% Number of dog licences issued 5864 7029 Up 20% Innovation Number of international markets activated 2 4 Up 100%
Further information on performance indicators can be found in the Directorate delivery Plans. Page 185 Page
27 Financial Performance 2016/17
For the year ended 31st March 2017, Council approved a net expenditure budget as part of the rates process of £54,846,217. In addition, Council had funding set aside in reserves from previous years for expenditure incurred in 2016/17 totalling £2.27m. The sources of funding were as follows:- £
Rates income (including de-rating grant) 50,030,194
Rates Support Grant 3,884,730 Page 186 Page Transferred Functions Grant 331,293
Reserves (Forecast loss) 600,000
Funding set aside in reserves incurred in 2016/17 2,271,311
Total expenditure budget 57,117,528
As set out in the table below, the Council has delivered** a surplus of £2.709m in 2016/17 as compared to a budget loss of £600k (£3.309m ahead of budget).
Area Budget Revised Net Surplus Annual Expenditure Budget Cross Cutting Corporate Services Governance, Finance & Legal 1,743,397 1,686,872 56,525
28 Chief Executive (including Legacy & 916,349 919,524 (3,176) Comms) Human Resources 734,800 733,904 896 Performance & Improvement 1,690,850 1,522,957 167,893 Council 1,296,700 1,181,836 114,864 6,382,096 6,045,094 337,002
Health & Community Director of Health & Community 323,200 327,681 (4,481) Health & Community wellbeing 2,460,088 2,087,081 373,007 Community Development & Leisure 7,170,717 6,479,427 691,290 9,954,005 8,894,189 1,059,816 Page 187 Page
Business & Culture Director of Business Culture 237,100 231,339 5,761 Off street car parking (551,300) (744,640) 193,340 Business 1,799,116 1,686,995 112,121 Culture 6,941,488 6,572,507 368,981 8,426,404 7,746,201 680,203
Environment & Regeneration Director of Environment & Regeneration 460,600 414,355 46,245
Planning 911,900 697,393 214,507
Capital Development & Building Control 975,700 670,789 304,911
Environment 19,173,405 19,104,714 68,691 21,521,605 20,887,251 634,354
29 Capital end loans 7,508,277 7,480,085 28,192 City of Deny Airport 2,145,000 2,152,579 (7,579) Sundry 1,196,641 1,347,543 (150,902) Bank interest and charges (16,500) (37,743) 21,243 Total net expenditure 57,117,528 54,515,199 2,602,329
Rates Support Grant (3,884,730) (3,884,730) 0 Rates (inc derating grant) (50,030,194) (50,737,352) 707,158 Transferring Functions Grant (331,293) (331,293) 0
Page 188 Page Repairs & Renewals Fund (1,096,305) (1,096,305) 0 Capital Fund (637,899) (637,899) 0 ED Reserve (537,107) (537,107) 0 Total Funding (56,517,528) (57,224,686) 707,158
Total 600,000 (2,709,487) 3,309,487
A breakdown of the savings is set out in the table below:
Savings Details £000
Directorate service outturn:-
Cross cutting corporate services- mainly due to unfilled posts, salary 222 recoupment, performance audit fee savings and building energy savings and prudent financial management. This has been offset by £108k (representing
30 50%) of costs which have been absorbed re North West Strategy Group due to €2.5m letter of offer not yet confirmed by NI Executive.
A number of efficiencies have been identified in this area following amalgamation and have been reflected in 2017/18 budget and efficiency plan. Council- savings on attendance allowances, travel and conferences. 115 Efficiencies have been identified and removed as part of 2017/18 rates process and Council's efficiency plan.
Health & Community - mainly due to Environmental Health staff savings 1,060 and Group costs savings from which efficiencies have now been reflected in
Page 189 Page 2017/18 budgets and efficiency plan (£373k). There is also an underspend of £691k in Community Development & Leisure. This is due to programme costs savings within Community Services, Leisure income ahead of budget by £65k and Savings re unfilled posts as the new leisure structure continues to be implemented. Costs include £120k set aside to capital fund for refurbishment works at Templemore Sports Complex (HC 264/16).
Business & Culture - Surplus in Off Street car parking of £193k due to 680 increased income and savings in gritting costs. Savings of £112k in Business due to unfilled post and programme costs and PEACE match funding savings. Savings in Culture of £369k due to Museums and Visitor Attractions building costs and staff savings (£115k), marketing savings (£211k) and tourism projects (£53k).
31 Environment & Regeneration- Savings in Planning £215k due to increased 634 income (£150k) and staff savings (£37k). Building Control income has continued to increase and has exceeded budget by £256k. In Environment, Parks Development savings have been offset by additional spend in Christmas lights enhancements across the City and District (£150k) and Street Cleansing due to additional spend to support Council's further investment in events. Savings have also resulted from a reduction in the waste accrual from previous year of £143k as per verbal report to June E&R Committee.
Total Directorate Savings 2,711 Page 190 Page
Other areas:-
Capital and loan charges and other costs- normally savings arise due to (109) budget not yet being fully committed and projects committed from budget which will not be complete until subsequent years. In this year these funds have been allocated through this Committee to enable progression of Council's strategic leisure ambitions and other priorities (£500k Year of Youth, £240k for Rural Development Programme match funding, £100k for asset commercialisation work, £506k for resourcing to progress capital projects and £246k to progress a number of capital projects). These amounts have been transferred to reserves.
Positive rates and de-rating grant finalisation as advised by Land & Property Services 707
Total Council Saving as Compared to Budgeted Loss £600k 3,309
32 During the year, the Council has adopted a prudent financial management approach with a focus on driving efficiencies to fund Councils' growth ambitions as identified in the Strategic Inclusive Growth Plan (Community Plan) and Council's capital plan.
It is noted that the combined picture of Council's positive rates finalisation (£707k) (representing a growth in rates base of 1.4%), planning income exceeding budget (£215k) and building control income exceeding budget (£256k) indicates positive growth and development activity in the Council area, which is key to delivering the objectives set out in the Strategic Inclusive Growth Plan.
It is further noted, that despite this positive result achieved in 2016/17, a lot of the savings realised in 2016/17 have been captured as part of Council's efficiency plan for 2017/18 which remains an extremely challenging financial year as a result of Central Government budget cuts and, in particular rates support grant cuts. Page 191 Page In addition, whilst a number of significant savings have been realised, there a number of known commitments and priorities, to the value of £2,265k, have been identified. Provision will be made in the reserves for these projects and the remaining surplus of £444k will be carried into the Council’s District Fund. This will ensure that the Council has a District Fund within the recommended threshold of between 5% and 7.5% of net expenditure.
This will result in the following District Fund balance being carried forward:-
Opening District Fund balance 4,251
Surplus 2,709
Proposed transfers (2,265)
Revised surplus 444
Closing District Fund 4,695
33 Earmarked to fund 2017/18 rates £450k and 2018/19 rates £300k and 2019/20 rates £150k (900)
Available District Fund 3,795
Net expenditure per 2016/17 rate estimates 56,163
District Fund % 6.75%
** This outturn is subject to external audit with the final accounts being presented by NIAO to Audit Committee by 30th September 2017. Page 192 Page
34 Statutory Indicators:
Introduction In September 2015, under the Local Government (Performance Indicators and Standards Order (Northern Ireland) 2015, statutory performance indicators and standards have been set as part of the performance improvement arrangements for district councils. Performance measures have been specified for the functions of economic development, planning and waste management. The aim of the performance measures is to promote the improvement of service delivery.
Statutory Performance Indicators and Standards The statutory performance indicators and standards have been set by the relevant Central Government Department. In order to
Page 193 Page ensure consistency and reliability of performance data, reporting on these performance indicators and standards will be carried out centrally so as to allow for accurate comparison between councils across performance indicators and standards. Central reporting will also ensure that the relevant Department continues to meet its statutory obligations under the Code of Practice for Official Statistics when reporting performance at the Regional level.
Derry City and Strabane District Council is committed to meeting the following seven statutory performance indicators / standards.
Ref Statutory Indicator Standard to be met (annually) ED1 The number of jobs promoted through business start-up activity 140 (Business start-up activity means the delivery of completed client led business plans under the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment’s Regional Start Initiative or its successor programmes.)
35 P1 The average processing time of major planning applications. Major applications [An application in the category of major development within the processed from date valid meaning of the Planning (Development Management) Regulations to decision or withdrawal (Northern Ireland) 2015(a)] within an average of 30 weeks. P2 The average processing time of local planning applications. Local applications [Local applications means an application in the category of local processed from date valid development within the meaning of the Planning (Development to decision or withdrawal Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015, and any other within an average of 15 applications for approval or consent under the Planning Act (Northern weeks. Ireland) 2011 (or any orders or regulations made under that Act)] P3 The percentage of enforcement cases processed within 39 weeks. 70% of all enforcement [Enforcement cases are investigations into alleged breaches of cases progressed to target Page 194 Page planning control under Part 5 of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) conclusion within 39 weeks 2011 (or under any orders or regulations made under that Act). (b).] of receipt of complaint W1 The percentage of household waste collected by district councils that In line with NILAS targets is sent for recycling (including waste prepared for reuse). (Northern Ireland Landfill [Household waste is as defined in Article 2 of the Waste and Allowance Scheme) Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997(a) and the Controlled Waste and Duty of Care Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2013(b)] W2 The amount (tonnage) of biodegradable Local Authority Collected 21 422 tonnes Municipal Waste that is landfilled. [Local authority collected municipal waste is as defined in section 21 of the Waste and Emissions Trading Act 2003(c)] W3 The amount (tonnage) of Local Authority Collected Municipal Waste In line with NILAS targets arisings. (Northern Ireland Landfill [Local authority collected municipal waste arisings is the total amount Allowance Scheme) of local authority collected municipal waste which has been collected by a district council] *under review
36 2016/17 Performance – Statutory Indicators
Economic Development
Performance Standard 2015/16 2016/17 2016/17 Best Explanatory Note and Further Action Ref. 2016-17 Indicator /Target Performance Performance NI Average Performance Details, where appropriate The number of 22% Increase in Jobs Promoted from jobs promoted Statutory Target. through > 140 ED1 198 171 208 380 business start- jobs (2015/6: 219) (2015/6: 445) up activity Page 195 Page
37 Planning
Performance Standard 2015/16 2016/17 2016/17 2016/17 Best Explanatory Note and Further Action Ref. Indicator /Target Performance performance NI Average Performance Details, where appropriate
The figures include DOE legacy cases. A significant number of very old legacy cases were processed to a conclusion in 2016/17 especially within the housing section which has resulted in processing figures of 304.8 weeks. The DOE legacy applications have been significantly
Page 196 Page The average reduced and the processing times will processing time < 30 37.9 wks 46.2 wks 68.6 wks 37.6 wks P1 improve going forward. We have of major weeks *including *including (2015/6: 46.4) (2015/6: 28.2) undertaken a full service review in applications legacy cases legacy cases 2016/17 and have identified a dedicated 53.5 wks 304.8 wks draft improvement plan which is currently being reviewed and implemented. In addition, Council is reviewing its approach to stakeholders in order to introduce best practice and streamline processes.
The figures include DOE legacy cases. A significant number of legacy and 12 The average month plus applications have been processing time < 15 12.8 wks 16.2 wks 16.2 wks 9.0 wks processed to a conclusion within the P2 of local planning weeks * including *including (2015/6: 19.4) (2015/6: 14) reporting period 16/17 which has resulted applications legacy cases legacy cases in the processing times of 19.1 weeks. 17 wks 19.1 wks DOE legacy applications and 12 month plus applications have been significantly
38 reduced and therefore processing times will improve going forward. We have undertaken a full service review in 2016/17 and have identified a dedicated draft improvement plan which is currently being reviewed and implemented. In addition, Council is reviewing its approach to stakeholders in order to introduce best practice and streamline processes. Enforcement targets have been met for The percentage 2015/16 and 2016/17. Whilst they are of enforcement below the NI Average this section exceeds P3 70% 77.10% 75.9%
Page 197 Page 80.7% 94.3% cases processed (2015/6: 77.2) (2015/6: 85.9%) the target set and will continue to within 39 weeks improve.
39 Waste Management
Performance Standard 2015/16 2016/17 2016/17 2016/17 Best Explanatory Note and Further Action Ref. Indicator /Target Performance Performance NI Average Performance Details, where appropriate
The percentage Council continues to improve on its of household recycling / composting rates through the waste collected roll out of the food waste collection by District service. These rates will improve again Councils that is this year as additional properties are sent for introduced to the scheme. W1 40%* 33.30% 40.7% 44.4% 51.6% recycling (2015/6: 42.4%) (2015/6: 49.7%) Page 198 Page (preparing for reuse, dry recycling and composting)(KPI *Local target (2a) The amount Council – with one exception - does not (tonnage) of send any wastes direct to landfill. All biodegradable wastes except dog waste is sent for Local Authority < 22,586 treatment with recyclable materials W2 13,429 13,360 Not relevant Not relevant Collected tonnes recovered from all streams. Municipal Waste that is landfilled (KPI(g))
40 The amount Waste arising are projected to rise in line (tonnage) of with increased economic activity as is the Local Authority case for all local authorities right across Collected the region. Council is committed to W3 No Target 70,901 74,365 n/a n/a Municipal Waste putting in place programmes to encourage Arisings consumers to reduce waste at source. (LACMW) (KPI (i)) Page 199 Page
41 Publishing our Performance
Our Annual Performance Report 2016/17 will be published on the Council’s website at www.derrystrabane.com as soon as is practical and by 30th September 2017 in line with statutory requirements. Members of the public will also be able to access this information at the Council’s offices and can comment on our Performance Report by emailing us at: [email protected] .
How to get involved
We are keen to get your feedback on any of the issues covered in this document. You can also propose new Improvement Page 200 Page Objectives, or make comments on the existing ones by emailing the Council at: [email protected].
We also have a dedicated Equality Assurance and Oversight Group which provides the opportunity to engage directly with council officers regarding the Council’s activities. If you have any queries or would like to become a member, please email: [email protected] or simply contact the Equality Officer on 028 71 253 253, Ext 6705.
The consultation web pages publish all current consultation being undertaken by the Council, and give information about how people can participate.
42 Agenda Item 12 Title of Report: Officer Presenting: Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer Correspondence Author: Democratic Services Officer
1 Purpose of Report/Recommendations
1.1 To advise Members of an invitation to attend the Annual General Meeting of the National Association of Councillors (NAC) Northern Ireland Region and confirm names of attending Members.
2 Background
2.1 All Members have been invited to attend the Annual General Meeting of the National Association of Councillors to be held on Friday 6 October at 11.00am in the Glenavon House Hotel, Cookstown (copy attached at Appendix 1).
2.2 Following the AGM, there will be two guest speakers (i) Kevin Higgins, Head of Policy at Advice NI on the Introduction of Universal Credit and (ii) Marie Anderson, Local Government Commissioner for Standards on the Councillors’ Code of Conduct.
3 Key Issues
3.1 All Members are entitled to attend, however only nominated Council representatives on the NAC can vote and make decisions on any business before the meeting.
4 Financial, Equality, Legal, HR, Improvement and other Implications
4.1 Members expenses will be covered within existing budget.
5 Recommendations
5.1 That Members note the invitation and confirm attendance with the Members Services Section.
Background Papers
Appendix 1 – Invitation from the National Association of Councillors NI Region
Page 201 This page is intentionally left blank National Association of Councillors Northern Ireland Region !j5 7 September 2017
John Kelpie I Chief Executive r., Derry City & Strabane District Council ii SEP£17 98 Strand Road - Derry 6T48 7NN
Dear John Kelpie - - -
Please can you inform your councillors that they are all welcome to the Annual General Meeting of the National Association of Councillors on Friday 6 October at 11.00 am at the Glenavon House Hotel, 52 Drum Road, Cookstown BTSO 8JQ (All councillors are entitled to attend, though only nominated council delegates can vote and make decisions).
Following the AGM, there will be two guest speakers:
• Kevin Higgins, Head of Policy at Advice NI, will talk about the introduction of Universal Credit
• Marie Anderson, Local Government Commissioner for Standards, will talk about the Councillors’ Code of Conduct
Directions to the Glenavon House Hotel can be found at: http ://www.bedandbreakfast-directory.co.uk/macQaye.asn?id= 115475
Yours sincerely
Councillor Joe Boyle Regional Secretary
National Association ofCouncillors, Sketrick House, Jubilee Road, Newtownards BT23 4YH Phone 028 9181 9413 Email: naocQDbtconnect.com Website: http://www.nationalassociationofcouncillorsni.org.uk/ Administrative Assistant: Nick Rogers Regional Secretary: Councillor Joe Boyle do Ards & North Down Borough Council 07711 932943 Page 203 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 14 Title of Report: Officer Presenting: Lead Democratic Services and Improvement Officer Parliamentary Constituencies Secondary Consultation Author: As above
1 Purpose of Report/Recommendations
1.1 To advise Members of the secondary consultation on the representations received in respect of the Provisional Proposals Report for the 2018 Review of Parliamentary constituencies in Northern Ireland.
2 Background
2.1 Last September the Boundary Commissioner for Northern Ireland published its Provisional Proposals Report for the 2018 Review of Parliamentary constituencies in Northern Ireland. These Provisional Proposals were consulted on for a period of twelve weeks which included four public hearings.
2.2 As part of a four week secondary consultation, the responses received, including transcripts of the public hearings were published on 5 September on the consultation portal: www.bcni2018.uk.
3 Key Issues
3.1 Views are invited on the representations received.
3.2 Closing date for responses is 2 October 2017.
4 Financial, Equality, Legal, HR, Improvement and other Implications
4.1 There are no direct implications associated with this report.
5 Recommendations
5.1 That Members note the contents of this report.
Background Papers
Page 205 This page is intentionally left blank Agenda Item 15
Sealing List September 2017
Documents Sealed 26th July 2017
Articles of Agreement in duplicate:- Derry City and Strabane District Council ~and~ Enterprise Rent a Car relating to Car Share Scheme Provided (TENV16-67)
Documents Sealed 1st August 2017
Agreement:- Derry City and Strabane District Council ~and~ David Hunter relating to car loan.
Documents Sealed 5th September 2017
Form of Agreement in duplicate:- Derry City and Strabane District Council ~and~ Quinn Automatic Ltd relating to Kilfennan Invest in Play.
Form of Deed in duplicate:- Derry City and Strabane District Council ~and~ Quinn Automatic Limited relating to Ballymagroarty Play Provision, Invest in Play.
Documents Sealed 14th September 2017
Articles of Agreement in duplicate:- Derry City and Strabane District Council ~and~ Natural World Products relating to Treatment of Biowaste (TENV17-030) LOT2
Articles of Agreement in duplicate:- Derry City and Strabane District Council ~and~ Natural World Products relating to Provision of Materials Processing Services for Recycling of Source Segregated Materials from Recycling Centre/Recycling Points (TENV17-101) LOT 6
Documents Sealed 28th September 2017
Grants of Right of Burial in Ballyoan Cemetery
Mr Peter Kerr, 11 Clooney Park West, Derry, BT47 6LA. Mr David Ferguson, 85 Slaghtmanus, Derry, BT47 3EY. Heather Smallwoods, 16 Bush Gardens, Irish Street, Waterside, BT47 2HS. Mrs Lily Smith, 11 Sperrin Park, Caw, BT47 6NG. Mrs Ruby Orr, 9 Malone Park, Kilfennan, BT47 5PE. Mrs Jane Reilly, 110 Rossdowney Road, BT47 5SU. Mr Ronald Armstrong, 37 Sheskin Gardens, Derry, BT47 2HG. Mrs Linda Porter, 67 Heron Way, L’derry, BT47 6LE.
Page 207 Grants of Right of Burial Claudy Cemetery
Mr Derek Deery, 300 Longland Road, Claudy, BT47 4AH.
Grants of Right of Burial City Cemetery
Mr Charlie McMonagle, 3 Greenwalk, Derry, BT48 9NP. Ms Debbie Doherty, 40 Moyola Walk, Derry, BT48 8EQ. Mr Robert McCarter, 15 Springvale Park, Derry, BT48 0NY. Mrs Helen Nixon, 102 Bloomfield Park, Derry, BT48 8HD. Mrs Loreto Bradley, 36 Messines Park, Derry, BT48 8AP. Ms Jamima Armstrong, 2 Racecourse Drive, Derry, BT48 8TD. Mr Joe Gallagher, 7 Eastway Road, Derry, BT48 9QA. Mr Cieran Cooley, 3 Oakfield Road, Derry, BT48 9AZ. Mrs Frances Harkin, 7 Central Drive, Derry, BT48 9QG. Mr Tony Devlin, 76 Rossnagalliagh, Derry, BT48 8GE. Mr Kevin Doherty, 33 Liscannor Park, Derry, BT48 0DF. Mr Alfred Cullen, 69 Cromore Gardens, Derry, BT48 9TG. Mrs Margaret Doherty, 2 Greenhaw Avenue, Derry, BT48 8EA. Mr David Harkin, 48 Benview Estate, Derry, BT48 0NG. Mrs Betty Curran, 50 Rathlin Gardens, Derry, BT48 9UE. Mr Tony Harkin, 21 Bracken Park, Derry, BT48 8AY. Mrs Madeline Scott, 43 Elm Grove, Derry, BT48 8QE. Mrs Anne McCarron, 384 Carnhill, Derry, BT48 8BS. Mr Kieran Stewart, 23 Epworth Street, Derry, BT48 0HD. Mrs Janet Rowe, 14 Iona Park, Derry, BT48 9LH. Mr Tony McKeever, 12 Culmore Road, Derry, BT48 7RJ. Mrs Theresa Harkin, 58 Rinmore Drive, Derry, BT48 9TH. Ms Tina McPhillips, 5 Ballynacross Meadows, Nixons Corner, Derry, BT48 9XF. Mrs Catherine Lynch, 14 Ardnamoyle Park, Derry, BT48 8HP. Mrs Ella Rabbett, 8 Sandbank Cottages, Derry, BT48 8FB. Mrs Ann Coyle, 41 Danesfort Crescent, Derry, BT48 8DQ. Mr Kevin Harty, 108 Fergleen Park, Derry, BT48 8LF. Mrs Margo Kennelly, 91 Prehen Park, Waterside, Derry, BT47 3PA. Mr Billy McLaughlin, 78 Moss Park, Derry, BT48 8JY. Mr Eamon Doherty, 92 Westway, Derry, BT48 9NT. Mrs Ann Sheerin, 11 O’Casey Court, Derry, BT48 0PS. Jean McCool, 33 Linsfort Drive, Derry, BT48 9TD. Mrs Ann Wade, 8 Lindenwood Park, Foyle Springs, Derry, BT48 0NX. Mrs Mary McLaughlin, 123 Hollymount Park, Derry, BT47 3UP. Mrs Margaret Murphy, 28 Cromore Gardens, Derry, BT48 9TF. Mrs Angela Power, 23 Castleview Park, Derry. Mrs Josie Concannon, 5 Dunmore Gardens, Derry, BT48 9NJ.
Page 208 Mrs Emma Concannon, 34 Westway, Creggan, Derry, BT48 9NU. Kathleen Duddy 150 Glenowen, Derry, BT48 0LH. Christina McCullagh, 7 Ennis Place, Derry, BT48 0LW
Grants of Right of Burial in Mountcastle Burial Ground Edward Bell, 17 Barron Road, Donemana, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 0JD Heather Thompson, 236 Primity Crescent, Newbuildings, Londonderry, BT47 2RA Bridget Britton, 4 Pearson Court, Alfred Road, Wavertree, Liverpool, L15 5BY
Grants of Right of Burial in Castlederg Burial Ground Ryan Loughrey, 14A Laghel Road, Castlederg, Co Tyrone, BT81 7SX
Evelyn Bogle, 20B Munie Road, Castlederg, Co Tyrone, BT81 7QJ
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