council papers - 5 january 2016 - broadland.gov.uk · council agenda date tuesday 5 january 2016...

Council

Agenda

Date Tuesday 5 January 2016

Members of the Council Mr K G Leggett MBE (Chairman)

Mr J M Ward (Vice Chairman) Time

Mr A D Adams Mrs C H Bannock Mr D Buck Mr P H Carrick Mr S M Clancy Mrs J Cottingham Mr S Dunn Mr J J Emsell Mr G Everett Mr J F Fisher Mr R R Foulger Mr R F Grady Mr I G Graham Mrs S C Gurney Mr C Harrison Mr D G Harrison Mrs L H Hempsall Miss J R Keeler Mr R J Knowles Mr B S Kular Mr T W Landamore Miss S Lawn Mrs J Leggett

Miss T E Lodge Mr I J Mackie Mr Alan S Mallett Mr Andrew M Mallett Mrs T M Mancini-Boyle Mr I N Moncur Mr G K Nurden Mr F O'Neill Mr G Peck Mr A J Proctor Mr V Ray-Mortlock Mrs B H Rix Mr D Roper Mr N C Shaw Mr M D Snowling MBE Mr V B Tapp Mrs K A Vincent Mr S A Vincent Mr D C Ward Mr F Whymark Mr D B Willmott Mr S D Woodbridge

7.00pm

Place Council Chamber Thorpe Lodge 1 Yarmouth Road Thorpe St Andrew Norwich

Contact Dawn Matthews tel (01603) 430404 Broadland District Council Thorpe Lodge 1 Yarmouth Road Thorpe St Andrew Norwich NR7 0DU Fax: (01603) 430411

E-mail: [email protected] Group meetings: Conservative Group Trafford Room (6.00pm) Liberal Democrat Group John Mack Room (6.00pm)

17 December 2015

The Openness of Local Government Bodies Regulations 2014

Under the above Regulations, any person may take photographs, film and audio-record the proceedings and report on all public meetings. If you do not wish to be filmed / recorded,

please notify an officer prior to the start of the meeting. The Council has a protocol, a copy of which will be displayed outside of each meeting room and is available on request.

The Chairman will ask if anyone wishes to film / record this meeting

A G E N D A Page No

1 To receive declarations of interest under Procedural Rule no 8

2 Apologies for absence

3 Presentation on Universal Credit

How the Government’s Welfare Reform will affect the Council’s service to its residents in respect of housing benefit and future guidance and advice on welfare matters.

4 Minutes

To consider the Minutes of the meeting held on 8 December 2015

4 - 10

5 Matters Arising (if any)

6 Announcements

To receive announcements from:

(1) The Chairman

(2) The Vice Chairman

(3) The Leader

(4) Members of the Cabinet

(5) The Head of Paid Service

11

7 Questions from the public

To consider any questions received from members of the public in accordance with Procedural Rule 10.

8 Public Speaking

To consider representations from members of the public who have expressed the wish to convey their views on items on this agenda.

In accordance with the Constitution a total period of 15 minutes is allowed (each speaker may speak for 3 minutes only).

9 Overview and Scrutiny Committee

To receive the Minutes of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meetings held on

(1) 1 December 2015 12 - 19

To follow (2) 15 December 2015

10 Cabinet

To receive the Minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 22 December 2015

To follow

11 Planning Committee

To receive the Decisions of the Planning Committee meeting held on 16 December 2015

20 – 21

12 Standards Committee

To receive the Minutes of the Standards Committee meeting held on 4 December 2015

22 - 24

13 Devolution

To receive an update from the Leader and the Chief Executive

14 Changes to Committee/Outside Organisation Appointments

To consider any matters proposed by the respective Group Leaders (if any)

15 Questions from Members

To consider questions from Members received in accordance with Procedural Rule 12.4

16 Motions

To consider any Motions received under Procedural Rule 13.

P C Kirby Chief Executive

Council

8 December 2015

Minutes of a meeting of the Council held at Thorpe Lodge, 1 Yarmouth Road, Thorpe St Andrew, Norwich on Tuesday 8 December 2015 at 7.00pm when there were present:

Mr K G Leggett MBE – Chairman

Mr A D Adams Mr R J Knowles Mr G Peck Mrs C H Bannock Mr B S Kular Mr A J Proctor Mr P H Carrick Mr T W Landamore Mrs B H Rix Mr S M Clancy Mrs J Leggett Mr D Roper Mr S Dunn Miss T E Lodge Mr N C Shaw Mr J J Emsell Mr I J Mackie Mr M D Snowling MBE Mr J F Fisher Mr Alan S Mallett Mr V B Tapp Mr R R Foulger Mr Andrew M Mallett Mr D C Ward Mr R F Grady Mrs T M Mancini-Boyle Mr J M Ward Mr I G Graham Mr I N Moncur Mr F Whymark Mr D G Harrison Mr G K Nurden Mr D B Willmott Mrs L H Hempsall Mr F O'Neill Also present was Mr J Sadler, one of the co-opted Members of the Standards Committee. In attendance were the Chief Executive, the Deputy Chief Executive, the Head of Democratic Services & Monitoring Officer, the Head of Finance and Revenue Services, and the Committee Officer (DM).

108 MR DAVID THOMPSON, FORMER COUNCILLOR FOR CATTON WARD

The Council stood for a minute’s silence in tribute to Mr David Thompson, former Councillor for Catton Ward from 1992 to 2015 and Chairman of the Council from 2000 to 2004. Tributes were paid to Mr Thompson.

109 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST UNDER PROCEDURAL RULE NO 8

No declarations were made.

110 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

Apologies for absence were received from Mrs J Cottingham, Mr G Everett, Mrs S C Gurney, Mr C Harrison, Miss S Lawn, Mr S A Vincent and Mrs K A Vincent. DRAFT

4

Council

8 December 2015

111 INTERACTIVE PRESENTATION BY THE COMMUNITY SAFETY MANAGER ON THE COUNCIL’S DUTIES UNDER THE GOVERNMENT’S PREVENT AGENDA

Members received a shortened, abridged version of the Prevent workshop from the Community Safety Manager. Section 26 of the Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015 placed a duty on Local Authorities to have “due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism”. The workshops would be rolled out to all staff in the new year. The Community Safety Manager talked about the connection between safeguarding and terrorism and that the key issue was to recognise when someone was vulnerable and becoming involved in extremist views and help them to avoid carrying on that path. Members raised several points of interest and questions about the issue which it was noted would be covered during the full workshop and many members expressed a wish to attend the workshop. Further details would be provided to Members and included in the Members’ Bulletin.

112 MINUTES

The Minutes of the meeting held on 3 November 2015 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.

113 ANNOUNCEMENTS

Members noted the civic engagements attended by the Chairman.

The Leader of the Council (Mr Proctor) reported that on 5 November he was one of 7 delegates from Norfolk and Suffolk who had attended a meeting with the Government to promote the case for Devolution. He also reported that earlier in the day he had attended the cutting of the sod to mark the start of the works on the Northern Distributer Route.

The Leader then referred to the impending retirement of Mr Malcolm Black the Council’s Administration Manager and Deputy Monitoring Officer. On behalf of Members, he thanked Malcolm for his long service and for the support he had given Members and stated he would be missed.

The Portfolio Holder for Communities and Housing (Mr Foulger) reported on his attendance at a recent meeting of the Norfolk Rail Policy Group. The Group had received a response from the Department of Transport to its letter setting out its vision for the new rail franchise from 2016. The views had all been taken on board with the exception of the wish to see a half hourly service between Norwich and Cambridge as it was claimed there was no business case for this. Further representations could be made to the Department of Transport at a later date and the case for the half hourly service might need to be re-made in the light of developments on Devolution.

DRAFT

5

Council

8 December 2015

The Portfolio Holder for Communities and Housing then reported on his visit to the new Saffron Housing Development at Hainford. The development consisted of 4 affordable rental properties and 4 shared ownership properties, which would be occupied by mid-December, and a further 6 units of market value properties which were still under construction. He commended the high standard of the development.

The Portfolio Holder for Communities and Housing informed Members that he had attended a meeting of the Rackheath Master Planning Board, as a substitute for the Portfolio Holder for Planning, at which a number of issues had been agreed including the terms of reference, the objectives and the area to be included. A series of future meetings had been arranged with the next meeting on 11 January 2016.

The Portfolio Holder for Environmental Excellence (Mr Fisher) reminded Members that visits to the Material Recycling Facility could be arranged for interested Members who should contact Sarah Bruton for details.

The Chief Executive reported that 6 Members of staff: Isabel Appleyard (Planning), Sara Utting (Democratic Services), Lorraine Houghton (Finance) Sarah Boughen (Corporate Services), Steve Scowen ( Economic Development) and Laura Crosby (Housing and Environmental Services) had taken part in the Local Authority Challenge for the East of England and East Midlands and came third overall. The team, acting as a newly appointed management team of a fictitious council, faced a series of challenges on current local government issues and was assessed on their performance. The team scored particularly well for their contact with the leader and for media interaction and were only 2 points off the runners up. They were commended for their support for partners, linking the council’s strategic objectives to partners’ ideas and visions and dealing with the media. They were calm, professional and solved nearly every problem thrown at them and their energy and enthusiasm and hard work had been inspirational. Council congratulated the team on its performance.

The Chief Executive reported that staff fundraising efforts had raised a total of £3237 for the chosen charities for 2015.

114 QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC

It was noted that there had been no questions received from the public.

115 PUBLIC SPEAKING

It was noted that there had been no requests received from the public to speak at the meeting.

DRAFT

6

Council

8 December 2015

116 OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE

The Minutes of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meetings held on 3 November and 17 November 2015 were received.

117 CABINET

The Minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 24 November 2015 were received.

Minute no: 73 - Greater Norwich Homelessness Strategy 2015/20

The Portfolio Holder for Communities and Housing invited Members to support the adoption of the Strategy. He drew attention to the ongoing work on prevention of homelessness and the use of private sector rented properties to avoid the use of costly bed and breakfast accommodation.

RESOLVED to adopt the Greater Norwich Homelessness Strategy 2015/20 - a copy of the Strategy is attached at appendix 1 to the signed copy of these Minutes Minute no: 76 - Greater Norwich Annual Growth Programme 2016/17

The Leader invited Members to adopt the Programme which incorporated the already approved Business Plans of the three partner councils.

RESOLVED

to approve the Greater Norwich Annual Growth Programme 2016/17 a copy of the Programme is attached at appendix 2 to the signed copy of these Minutes.

Minute no: 79 - Purchase of Land North of Plumstead Road East

The Leader invited Council to support the purchase of land North of Plumstead Road East which would be a major project in terms of investment and in the delivery of an important road link. A range of options had been considered by both the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Cabinet and, whilst the Council would not be able to re coup all of the investment in financial terms, the proposed option was the best way forward.

DRAFT

7

Council

8 December 2015

RESOLVED

to agree to purchase the land for the price set out in the exempt appendix to the Cabinet Minute, plus associated costs.

118 PLANNING COMMITTEE

The decisions of the Planning Committee meeting held on 18 November 2015 were received.

119 LICENSING COMMITTEE

The Minutes of the Licensing Committee meeting held on 12 November 2015 were received.

The Chairman of the Licensing Committee invited Members to adopt the recommendations of the Licensing Committee.

Minute no: 8 – Licensing Act 2003 – Review of Licensing Policy

RESOLVED

to adopt the revised Policy – a copy of the Policy is attached at appendix 3 to the signed copy of these Minutes.

Minute no: 9 - Gambling Act 2005 – Gambling Policy Statement

RESOLVED

to adopt the revised Policy, including the table of delegations and, as a consequence, to request the Head of Democratic Services and Monitoring Officer to make the relevant amendments to the Constitution. a copy of the Policy is attached at appendix 4 to the signed copy of these Minutes. DRAFT

8

Council

8 December 2015

120 DEVOLUTION

The Leader reported that he had attended a meeting with the Government on 5 November together with other delegates from Norfolk and Suffolk to promote the case for Devolution. No further issues had been raised at this meeting other than those considered by the Council at its last meeting.

With regard to the issue of the geographical area, work was underway to evaluate the options of extending the area to include Cambridge and Peterborough. The issue of finance was also still evolving and further clarity was needed on the financial implications.

With regard to the issue of governance, there was currently no proposal by the Government to impose the election of a mayor but there was a need to look at all options for governance.

The Leader then referred to amendments being made to the Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill 2015-16 which effectively strengthened the position of the Government to impose Devolution and he stressed the need to seek agreement between partners on the progress of Devolution in the area to avoid this. Essentially there was continuing support for the Government’s Devolution proposals which would give more power and autonomy at a local level.

Members noted the latest position.

121 CHANGES TO COMMITTEES AND COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS

Planning Committee The Leader reported on changes to the chairmanship and membership of the Planning Committee with Mr Nurden replacing Mr Snowling on the Committee and Mr Moncur replacing Mr Snowling as Chairman. The Leader commended the role undertaken by Mr Snowling in chairing the Committee for a number of years. Other Members echoed these sentiments stating that it had been a privilege to work with Mr Snowling and they thanked him for his humor and the way in which he had chaired what could often be very difficult meetings.

RESOLVED

to endorse the replacement of Mr Snowling on the Planning Committee by Mr Nurden and the appointment of Mr I Moncur as Chairman of the Committee.

DRAFT

9

Council

8 December 2015

Place Shaping Panel

RESOLVED

to appoint the Portfolio Holder for Communities and Housing to the Place Shaping Panel.

Rackheath Master Planning Board

RESOLVED

to appoint the Portfolio Holder for Planning to the Rackheath Master Planning Board (the Portfolio Holder for Communities and Housing as substitute) – attendances at meetings being an approved duty for the payment of Members’ Allowances.

Broads Internal Drainage Board

RESOLVED

to endorse the appointment of Mrs Hempsall to replace Mr Shaw as one of the six members of the Broads Internal Drainage Board.

122 QUESTIONS FROM MEMBERS

It was noted that no questions had been received from Members in accordance with Procedural Rule 12.4.

123 MOTIONS

It was noted that no Motions had been received under Procedural Rule 13.

The meeting closed at 8:10pm DRAFT

10

Council

5 January 2016

CIVIC ENGAGEMENTS – 2015/16

Date Event Attended by

December 2015

3rd Christmas Fair hosted by Broadland Council’s Sports & Social Club at Thorpe Lodge

Chairman

3rd EDP Stars of Norfolk Awards at St Andrews Hall Chairman

4th Opening of new homes hosted by Saffron Housing at Chequers Meadow, Stratton Road, Hainford

Chairman

5th National Small Business Saturday – tour of some of Broadland’s independent shops and businesses

Chairman & Vice-Chairman

6th Civic Service hosted by the Chairman of Forest Heath District Council at St Peter’s Church, Brandon

Chairman

7th Christmas Dinner hosted by The County Towns Initiative with The Full Gospel Business Men held at the Brook Hotel, Bowthorpe

Chairman

9th Festive visit to the Delivery Office on Roundtree Way, Sprowston together with the Chairman of Norfolk County Council and the Lord Mayor of Norwich to thank the staff for all their hard work

Chairman

10th At Home Reception hosted by the Mayor of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk at the Town Hall in King’s Lynn

Chairman

14th Candlelit Church Service hosted by the Chairman of Breckland Council at the Church of St Mary, North Tuddenham

Chairman

16th Carol Service hosted by Thorpe St Andrew School & Sixth Form at Norwich Cathedral

Chairman

11

Overview & Scrutiny Committee

1 December 2015

Minutes of a meeting of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee held at Thorpe Lodge, 1 Yarmouth Road, Thorpe St Andrew, Norwich on Tuesday 1 December 2015 at 10.00 am when there were present:

Mr D G Harrison – Chairman Mrs C H Bannock Mr R F Grady Mr F O'Neill Mr D Buck Mrs L H Hempsall Mr V Ray-Mortlock Mr J J Emsell Miss T E Lodge Mrs K A Vincent Mr G Everett Mr G K Nurden Mr D C Ward Also in attendance were the Head of Democratic Services and Monitoring Officer, Head of Economic Development, Local Taxation Manager, Overview and Scrutiny Research Officer and the Committee Officer (JO).


Member Minute No & Heading Nature of Interest Mrs Bannock 102 - Committee Brief: Council

Performance Broadland Business Plan and Service Plan Updates

Member Champion for Sport, closely involved with Broadly Active.


Apologies for absence were received from Mrs Cottingham and Mr Tapp.

99 MINUTES

The Minutes of the meeting held on 17 November 2015 were confirmed and signed by the Chairman as a correct record.

100 PARTNERSHIP REVIEW GREATER NORWICH GROWTH BOARD

A Partnership Review conducted over 2013/15 had decided that the Greater Norwich Growth Board (GNGB) was too new a body to review. A review had therefore been included in the 2015/16 Committee Work Programme.

The Committee was, therefore, asked to consider if a review was appropriate at the present time and if so to convene a Time and Task Limited Panel to undertake it.

After due consideration it was decided not to review the GNGB, as regular updates were provided through the Cabinet report process and the Member representative could update the Committee as and when it was appropriate.

12


1 December 2015

AGREED

to defer a review of the Greater Norwich Growth Board.

101 BROADLAND ECONOMY UPDATE

The Head of Economic Development provided an update on economic activity being undertaken in the District over the last quarter.

Work continued between the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and the Economic Development Department to co-ordinate business support. Since the start of the financial year businesses in the District had accessed funding through the LEP as follows:

• Small Grants - £84,330 to six businesses providing 12 new jobs

• Growing Business Fund - £869,320 to ten businesses providing 122 new jobs

Broadland had the lowest Job Seekers Allowance claimant’s rate in the county at 0.62 percent at the end of September. Economic Development was working with the Department of Work and Pensions and the Revenue and Benefits Team on a Job Club to assist those on benefits get work.

Broadland Business Breakfasts continued to be very successful. The last one, which was held on 14 October, had around 75 delegates.

Economic Development staff continued to provide advice and support for business across the Districts and averaged 30 business visits per month.

The Economic Success Panel had led a piece of work investigating broadband and mobile phone provision across the District. This work would feed into the roll out of Better Broadband for Norfolk, which was a scheme that the Council had, in principle, committed £560,000 of funding towards. A report on this would be made to Cabinet in the New Year.

Work with the Communications Team was also being undertaken to raise awareness of broadband performance in the District and the level of service that residents needed, as opposed to what the suppliers said they required.

Business training courses were now located at Carrowbreck House and very positively feedback had been received about the venue, which had also been used for a number of partner seminars and events over the last few months.

13


1 December 2015

On 12 September 2015, the Tour of Britain cycle race returned to Reepham, Cawston and Aylsham and had attracted large crowds.

The Broadly Active GP referral scheme continued to be successful and around 90 members attended the Annual Event Day in September at Hautbois Hall, where they had the chance to try a number of new sports. Broadland also ran the Norwich GP referral scheme, which was a small source of income.

A weight management Programme (Why Weight?) had been launched in Broadland. The scheme had been covered on Mustard TV and had gained national coverage when one of the clients had lost 30 stone.

The Tots2Teens programme had seen a significant increase in numbers during the summer. This had been popular with families in Housing Association accommodation and had strengthening the Department’s relationship with the Early Help Hub.

The Marriott’s Way race took place on Sunday 11 October 2015 and was more popular than ever with 450 runners. Some neighbouring businesses saw a huge increase in trade on the day.

A refreshed Apprenticeships Scheme had been launched in August 2015 and work was progressing well on an Improvement Plan required as part of the Ofsted process.

The Economic Development Department had recently set up a Working Group, which aimed to give young officers experience of a wider range of Council activities. The Group had expressed a wish to learn more about the democratic and decision making processes within the Council and attend Council meetings, where appropriate.

A Member had a number of questions about the business support and the youth training activities of the Department and the roles of the Council and the LEP in these areas. These issues would be taken up when the Performance Report was considered later in the meeting.

In response to a query about traffic issues in Blofield Heath arising from the construction of the Postwick Hub, the Head of Economic Development confirmed that he would contact County Council Highways and report back to the Member after the meeting.

AGREED

to note the report.

14


1 December 2015

102 COMMITTEE BRIEF: COUNCIL PERFORMANCE BROADLAND BUSINESS PLAN AND SERVICE PLAN UPDATES

The Committee was asked to consider the Council Performance Broadland Business Plan and Service Plan Update and identify areas and issues for the Performance Management Sub-Committee to investigate.

It was confirmed that there were no vacancies on the Performance Management Sub-Committee, as had been incorrectly stated in the covering report.

The following questions and issues were suggested for the Sub-Committee to investigate:

BROADLAND BUSINESS PLAN

Objective 1- To back Broadland businesses by providing information, help, advice and guidance to help them grow and prosper

• What were the environmental/conservation impacts of flooding in Broadland?

• What percentage of businesses signposted by the Economic Development Team successfully accessed LEP funding?

Objective 2 – To support the people of Broadland and their communities by increasing their skills and/or employment prospects

• What part did the Council play in accessing Small Grants and Growing Business Fund support through the LEP?

• What part of the funding was provided by Broadland? • Were the jobs created by this funding full time, permanent and in

Broadland? • Why did the Council maintain an involvement if it was the responsibility

of the LEP? • Who were the Growth Hub Advisors? • How was the Job Seekers Allowance claimant rate relevant? • If business support was the LEP responsibility, why was the Council

visiting businesses at a rate of one a day at what cost? • Please describe the business courses at Carrowbreck. • Why did the Council provide this service and not local collages and/or

the LEP • Who provided funding for business courses? • How long was each apprenticeship course? • What was the cost per annum of apprenticeship courses and how were

they funded? • What were the qualifications? • Were there any failures? • Could it be demonstrated that the courses were valued by employers?

15


1 December 2015

• Why were construction courses offered when they were delivered by CITB and the LEP?

• What special skills did the remaining courses offer that could not be secured on the job?

• How many who completed the courses secured full time employment? • How much did the Council’s support of the LEP cost? • How was the LEP accountable to the Council? • Who were the Council’s representatives on the LEP? • How did Enterprise Zones benefit the Council? • What standards did the Council apply to make sure housing was

satisfactory and fit for purpose?

Objective 3 - To minimise waste and maximise recycling • How were households being educated to recycle properly?

(Policies at other local authorities might provide ideas to stop incorrect bin use).

• Why had the level of missed bins remained consistent and not improved?

• How sustainable was the food waste scheme once Government funding stops?

• How likely was it that the scheme would be rolled out further in the next financial year?

Objective 4 - To improve energy efficiency and increase the uptake of renewable energy throughout the district

• What regulations were in place to ensure that new developments were energy efficient?

Objective 5 - To keep Broadland clean and tidy

• What assessment had been done in respect of increased fly tipping resulting from plans for closing Recycling Centres?

• A review should be conducted of Recycling Centre policies in respect of the range and quantity of what would be accepted at Recycling Centres.

• What was the cost of fly-tipping to the Council compared to the income made from large item collection?

• What had led to the significant decrease in fly tipping compared to the national increase?

• How had the success of the Top Dog scheme been measured? • Had parishes with high dog fouling rates seen a decrease in fouling

and how was that being demonstrated? • What action was being taken to remove fouling in hedgerows? • What was the cost to parishes to provide dog bins and how could that

cost be shared? • Would charging for shopping bags lead to an increase in fouling? • What were the improvements being made to enable the Council to

take part in the Clean Britain awards next year? • What was the Council doing to address litter left at campsites?

16


1 December 2015

Objective 6 - To generate and commit investment to ensure development provides the necessary infrastructure, homes and opportunities for Broadland residents

• There was a risk of failing to provide sufficient infrastructure to support new developments, which would impact on businesses, waste, congestion and health and wellbeing.

Objective 7 - To maximise the delivery of homes people can afford

• What steps were being taken by the Council to make house buyers aware of the necessary surveys before buying a house?

• How many dwellings with extant planning permission in the District were available to be delivered?

Objective 9 - To understand people’s housing problem and help them solve it

• Had it been decided to use dip sampling to measure complex case demand on the Housing Options Team?

• What would be the benefit of dip sampling? • Had the provision of housing for people with mobility/age/disability

issues been looked at? • Had there been an assessment of the number of bungalows needed in

the District? • What was the cost of temporary accommodation for the Council in

comparison with neighbouring local authorities? • What was the Council doing for communities where local services were

oversubscribed due to new developments?

Objective 10 To address the needs of the older population to ensure they can continue to live independently

• What measures were being taken to deliver the type and size of housing older people wanted?

• Was the Handyperson Scheme going to continue to be delivered? Objective 12 - To effectively manage our finances

• Were any innovative ways to pay Council Tax and Business Rates being used?

• The report should state the percentage of Council Tax and Business Rates that was expected to be collected, as well as what had actually been collected

• Arrears figures should also be included in the report.

Objective 13 - To use system thinking principles to improve services, maximise new income streams and deliver savings and efficiencies

• How many departments still required Systems Thinking interventions? • How were the changes made following interventions being measured?

17


1 December 2015

Objective 14 - To maximise staff engagement • What progress had been made with exploring alternative approaches

to the long-term funding of the PRP Scheme? • More details on the engagement levels in the staff survey were

required (it was suggested that a staff representative attend the Performance Management Sub-Committee for discussion of this issue).

Objective 15 - To promote healthy lifestyles and encourage behaviour change

• How could Broadly Active stimulate other locally based sport activities? • Broadly Active could be raised at the Norfolk Health Overview and

Scrutiny Committee to encourage GPs to refer more patients. • There was a lack of information about how the risks identified in the

report were being addressed.

Objective 16 - To help support and protect vulnerable residents • How much of a risk was this discretionary budget and how would

vulnerable people be supported without it?

SERVICE PLANS

Corporate Services - Facilities • How were health and safety issues being addressed in regard to

delivery vehicles to Thorpe Lodge? • Can a Member representative be included on the Health and Safety

Panel?

Corporate Services - Human Resources • When would the issue regarding the timeliness and accuracy of

financial reporting of the payroll be addressed?

Planning Department • Why was the report not completed? • What efforts were made to obtain a report?

The above items would be considered by a meeting of the Performance Management Sub-Committee on date to be arranged.

The Head of Democratic Services and Monitoring Officer responded to a number of issues raised by Members in respect of the 2015 Elections.

103 CORPORATE EQUALITIES GROUP

The Member representative provided the meeting with an update on the meeting of the Corporate Equalities Group held on 11 November 2015.

18


1 December 2015

104 OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE WORK PROGRAMME

It was agreed that as a review of the Greater Norwich Growth Board had been deferred, the review of Your Norwich would be brought forward from March to January 2016.

The meeting closed at 12.45 pm.

19

Planning Committee

16 December 2015

DECISIONS ON APPLICATIONS – 16 DECEMBER 2015

App’n No Location Description of

Development

Decision

20150991 Land adj St Mary’s Care Home, North Walsham Road, Crostwick

18 No new supported retirement bungalows and 20 no allotments

Authority delegated to the HoP to APPROVE subject to the satisfactory completion of a legal agreement within 6 months and subject to conditions If the legal agreement is not completed within 6 months, planning permission will be refused

20151644 1 to 4 Station Road, Swannington

Demolition of 4 existing units and development of 10 residential units together with associated access (outline)

Authority delegated to the HoP to APPROVE subject to the satisfactory completion of a legal agreement within 6 months and subject to conditions If the legal agreement is not completed within 6 months, planning permission will be refused

20151127 5A Blackberry Court, Sweet Briar Retail Park, Hellesdon

Variation of condition 2 of planning permission 911769 – to vary the restriction on the retail goods to be sold

APPROVED subject to conditions

20151556 Land adjacent to 6 Church Farm Close, Weston Longville

Demolition of existing agricultural building and erection of residential dwelling with detached garage/store


20

Planning Committee

16 December 2015

20151583 20151583 –

Sprowston Retail Park, Salhouse Road, Sprowston

(1) Alterations to building facade and associated walkway / entrances; (2) Extension and sub-division of units 7 and 8; (3) Construction of mezzanine floor in Units 7A and 7B; (4) Addition of mezzanine floor in Unit 8


20151430 Honey Suckle Lodge, Hall Road, Hainford

Change of use of land from agricultural to residential curtilage to create driveway and walls with entrance gates (part retrospective)


20151215 Lakeside Manor, Fakenham Road, Lenwade

(1) Change of use of land to residential curtilage; (2) Siting of garage and static caravan (retrospective)

REFUSED

HoP = Head of Planning

21

Standards Committee

4 December 2015

Minutes of a meeting of the Standards Committee held at Thorpe Lodge, 1 Yarmouth Road, Thorpe St Andrew, Norwich on Friday 4 December 2015 at 10am when there were present:

Mr R J Knowles – Chairman

Elected Members Co-opted Parish and Town Council Members Mr R F Grady Mr V J Pennells Mr D G Harrison Mr J A Sadler Mr K G Leggett MBE Mrs M Temple Also in attendance were the Head of Democratic Services & Monitoring Officer, Administration Manager & Deputy Monitoring Officer, Electoral Services Manager and the Senior Committee Officer.


Member / Co-opted Member

Minute No & Heading Nature of Interest

Mr Grady, Mr Harrison, Mr Knowles and Mr Pennells, Mr Sadler and Mrs Temple

All items Parish / Town Councillors

2 MINUTES

The Minutes of the meeting held on 9 August 2013 were confirmed and signed by the Chairman as a correct record and the notes of the (inquorate) meeting held on 9 October 2015 were received.

3 INTRODUCTION TO THE STANDARDS REGIME

The Committee received a presentation by the Head of Democratic Services & Monitoring Officer introducing the standards regime for the benefit of new Members. It was agreed that a copy be emailed to committee members following the meeting.

One key point to note was appointment of the Electoral Services Manager as the Deputy Monitoring Officer, following the retirement of the Administration Manager on 18 December 2015.

In response to a question on the rationale for changing the Code of Conduct, the Head of Democratic Services & Monitoring Officer advised that there had

22

Standards Committee

4 December 2015

been a number of high profile cases nationally which had resulted in significant costs and the view had been reached that an industry had been built up around Standards for England. Interestingly, cases had taken 15-18 months to be dealt with but since matters had been returned to local level, a deadline of 3 months had been imposed.

4 MEMBERS’ INTERESTS

The Committee received a report by the Head of Democratic Services & Monitoring Officer providing an update on Members’ interests in compliance with the Localism Act 2011.

The Committee was pleased to note that all 47 District Councillors had completed and returned their Register of Interest forms and, at the time of writing, there were no outstanding forms from the parish / town councillors. It was acknowledged that this level of success was as a result of the high level of resource supplied by the administration and committee teams.

5 MONITORING OFFICER’S ANNUAL REPORT 2014-15

The Committee received a report by the Head of Democratic Services & Monitoring Officer summarising the more significant activities during 2014-15 and commenting on other current issues relevant to the Monitoring Officer’s work for the Council

The Committee was pleased to note that:

• there had been no ‘reportable incidents’ during the period 2014/15;

• the systems of internal control administered by the Monitoring Officer were adequate and effective during 2014/15 for the purposes of the latest regulations;

• the range of action taken to address complaints received about Member conduct at parish / town council and District Council level had been dealt with in a timely and proportionate manner with satisfactory outcomes achieved and

• the Council continued to provide support and guidance to a small number of parish councils who had encountered difficulties during the period to which the report related. Whilst the Council was not legally required to provide such support it was considered extremely important in continuing to foster good relations with Broadland’s parish and town councils.

During 2014/15, the number of standards complaints was low and no hearings of the Standards Committees were required. The main area of

23

Standards Committee

4 December 2015

involvement had related to dealing with parish / town council issues.

6 THE ROLE OF THE INDEPENDENT PERSON

The Committee received a report by the Head of Democratic Services & Monitoring Officer explaining the role of the Independent Person within the Standards regime for the benefit of new Members.

It was noted that Alastair Roy was the Independent Person for Broadland and he also acted for the Broads Authority and Norwich City Council.

7 OBSERVATIONS AT COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Mr Sadler reported on his observations at recent committee meetings advising that there had been no issues of concern.

The Committee noted that the Administration Manager & Deputy Monitoring Officer would be retiring from the Council on 18 December and wished him well for the future.

The meeting closed at 10:45am

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www.broadland.gov.uk

DEMOCRATIC SERVICES

Broadland District Council Thorpe Lodge, 1 Yarmouth Road, Norwich, NR7 0DU Tel: 01603 430428 Email: [email protected]

COUNCIL

5 January 2016

Final Papers

Item

Details Page No

9 Overview and Scrutiny Committee To receive the Minutes of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting held on 15 December 2015

27 – 39

10 Cabinet To receive the Decisions List of the Cabinet meeting held on 5 January 2016 The following items require consideration:

40– 41

(1) Item no: 10 - Possible use of Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) to Acquire Land for a Burial Ground in Acle to refuse the application to CPO the parcel of land to the north of Pyebush Lane, Acle and recommend that any further CPO request be accompanied by a comprehensive consultation of Acle residents.

40

(2) Item no: 11 – Drayton Neighbourhood Plan to approve the submission of the Neighbourhood Plan, based on the assessment detailed within the Cabinet report, and send written notice of this decision to Drayton Parish Council.

40

(3) Item no: 13 – Council Tax Reduction Scheme 2016/17

to

(1) note the Equality Impact Assessment;

and

(2) approve the proposed amendments to the current Council Tax Reduction Scheme to be applied to the 2016/17 Scheme.

40

25

mailto:[email protected]

(4) Item no: 14 –Potential Changes to Council Tax Discounts to terminate the current levels of discount for Class A and B Second Home Discounts (currently 5 percent). To terminate the Class C discount on properties vacant for up to three months (currently 100 percent) and to terminate the Class D discount available for vacant properties undergoing major repair work or structural alteration (currently 50 percent for up to 12 months).

41

26


15 December 2015

Minutes of a meeting of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee – Review of Cabinet Agenda held at Thorpe Lodge, 1 Yarmouth Road, Thorpe St Andrew, Norwich on Tuesday 15 December 2015 at 10.00 am when there were present:

Mr D G Harrison – Chairman Mr J J Emsell Mr Alan Mallett Mr V B Tapp Mr G Everett Mr G K Nurden Mr D C Ward Mrs L H Hempsall Mr F O'Neill Miss T E Lodge Mr V Ray-Mortlock

Mr S Clancy, Mr R Foulger, Mr A Proctor and Mrs T Mancini-Boyle attended the meeting for item 108 - Budget Questions for Cabinet.

Also in attendance were the Head of Democratic Services and Monitoring Officer, Head of Planning, Head of Housing and Environmental Services, Head of Finance and Revenue Services, Policy Officer, Local Taxation Manager and the Committee Officer (JO).

Mr I Barnard and Mrs P James (Clerk of Acle Parish Council) were in attendance for Item 109 - Possible use of Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) to Acquire Land for a Burial Ground in Acle.


Member Minute No & Heading Nature of Interest Mrs Hempsall 109 - Possible use of Compulsory

Purchase Order to Acquire Land for a Burial Ground in Acle

Local choice non pecuniary interest, Member of the Broads Authority, left for the decision.

Mr Nurden 111 - Brundall Neighbourhood Plan

Local choice non pecuniary interest, Member of the Brundall Parish Council.

Miss Lodge 112 - Council Tax Reduction Scheme

Local choice, pecuniary interest, household was in receipt of Council Tax Reduction Support.

Mr Harrison 113 - Potential Changes to Council Tax Discounts

Disclosable pecuniary interest as a landlord, did not vote on this item.


Apologies for absence were received from Mrs Bannock, Mr Buck, Mrs Cottingham, Mr Grady and Mrs Vincent.

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15 December 2015

107 MINUTES

The Minutes of the meeting held on 1 December 2015 were confirmed and signed by the Chairman as a correct record.

Minute No: 102 - Committee Brief: Council Performance Broadland Business Plan and Service Plan Updates.

The Committee was informed that the Health and Safety Panel was a staff forum with responsibility for health and safety as an employer and as such elected Members had no role on the Panel.

A Member suggested expanding on a question regarding the involvement of Broadland in youth training, when the Local Enterprise Partnership might be better qualified to deliver it. It was agreed that this issue would be brought back to the Committee at a later date.

108 BUDGET QUESTIONS FOR CABINET

Cabinet made the following responses to the Committee’s questions:

THEME: Council Funding

(1) Would Cabinet consider a review of Business Rates and Reliefs with a view to generating greater income, without prejudice to the start-ups and smaller businesses we wished to support?

The Government was extending the Small Business Rate relief for a further year which helped our small businesses and start-ups. The Council's Discretionary Reliefs Policy was recently reviewed and additional support was given to Community Interest Companies and child care providers. Any Discretionary Relief not funded by central Government was a cost to the Council. Broadland would proceed with caution in respect of Business Rates, as they could be subject to change in the future.

(2) Could we consider advertising Broadland as a business friendly area to attract more to Broadland? What active promotion did we already undertake?

The Council worked with Norfolk County Council and UK Trade and Investment with identifying suitable sites in Broadland for interested businesses. Inward investment was a priority for the Greater Norwich Growth Board (GNGB) and was a partner the Council was working with others to develop a promotional tool. Public transport was to be an essential element of the Rackheath Master Plan to ensure good links

28


15 December 2015

to assist businesses.

(3) Would Cabinet undertake research needed for bringing start-up business units, increasing business opportunities including industrial units? In addition consider land available alongside the Norwich Northern Distributor Road (NNDR).

The Council was working with its partners in the Business Rate pool to identify stalled sites and support the bringing on stream of these sites with the funding in the pool.

(4) How did Cabinet ensure that Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money allocated supported the District to deliver its infrastructure priorities?

As part of the GNGB the District's priorities were included in the Annual Growth Plan agreed by all the Councils in the GNGB. In addition funding had been set aside to support and work with local town and parish councils to bring forward infrastructure in their areas. The pooled funding would help deliver not only the NNDR, but also a whole range of infrastructure over Greater Norwich.

(5) Would Cabinet consider introducing an administration fee to parish/town councils wishing to deposit CIL funds into the Council's investment scheme?

The Council already invested other funds on behalf of town and parish councils and had not charged a fee and had no intention of doing so in the future.

THEME: Capital Funds

(6) Had the Council considered further partnership working to get more for our money?

The Council reviewed its partnership working regularly to ensure value for money and a recent paper was presented to the Service Improvement and Efficiency Committee (SIEC) on this. The Council would always consider partnership working where it was appropriate for us to so. The Overview and Scrutiny Committee could work jointly with SIEC on areas of mutual interest also.

(7) Have we considered investing for income? (Including income generated projects).

The Council's funds were invested following the Council's agreed

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15 December 2015

Treasury Management Strategy which considered risk and security. This was reviewed annually to consider all options available to the Council.

Any investment in income generating projects would require thorough option appraisals as any drain on the Council's reserves in a period of reducing central support would need to bring returns almost immediately.

(8) Had Cabinet considered capitalising its assets and/or sell Thorpe Lodge and rent it back to invest the money?

The Council has very few assets and any sale generated capital receipts and any rental comes from revenue funding.

A Member suggested that it would not be financially efficient to sell and then rent Thorpe Lodge.

(9) Had the Council considered buying through consortiums, working with our partner districts and service providers? How did the Cabinet see the future of procurement through consortium progressing?

The Council was in discussions with other Councils about working in a procurement consortium. However, this may be an additional cost to the Council but a saving in time working on procurement processes. The Council did have a record of working with other councils on contracts such as the recent banking contract and was currently discussing a joint procurement for insurance.

(10) Apart from statutory services, had Cabinet considered a policy of only investing capital if it produced a return?

All projects should have a business case to assess the level of return to the Council, and the risks associated with any scheme. However some decisions even though a return was not guaranteed were positive from a policy point of view to meet the objectives of the Business Plan.

THEME: Service Specific Finances

(11) Could the Council pass further statutory functions to other bodies such as parish councils?

Any decision of transfer of functions would involve transfers of funding and might not be possible under legislation.

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15 December 2015

(12) Were Broadland’s charges consistent with other councils, if not should we raise them?

The Council raised its fees and charges each year and did have regard to other councils however; the demographics and demand on other councils might be different to our own and therefore have a different charging regime.

(13) Did the Council offer business support for training and other services?

The Council did work closely with local businesses especially with the Council's apprentice scheme and offered a whole range of courses including Accountancy, Management and Leadership at subsidised rates to businesses in Broadland. Broadland was also one of the most successful local authorities in Norfolk at accessing grants for businesses from the Local Enterprise Partnership.

(14) Can we turn non-statutory services into more income generating services? Such as:

a. Handyperson Scheme - a review was being undertaken and options to maintain the service when funding from Norfolk County Council ceased would be considered by Cabinet next week.

b. Car parking - a major review was being undertaken. This would take account of the required balance between income generation and ensuring it was business friendly.

c. Business sponsorship - there was a need to be careful regarding sponsorship for statutory services, as the Council had an enforcement role and this could lead to a conflict of interests.

d. Tree Preservation Orders – an option appraisal would be required, but it was unlikely that this area would be worth pursuing as a source of income.

(15) Could Broadland look into increasing the monetarisation of services?

Any ideas need a robust business case and checks with Legislation.

THEME: Innovative Ideas

(16) What was the future of Broadland Growth Ltd? Was there scope to increase our level of development and increase income from property development?

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15 December 2015

Any increase in the level of development would require sound business cases and additional funding from partners rather than using Council resources. Carrowbreck was proceeding well with the development of high quality Passivhaus dwellings. Other development options, including Dementia Care Homes were also being looked at.

(17) Should the Council consider selling Bure Valley railway and/or the car parks?

Options were being considered, but there must be benefit to the Council in the longer term and it was important that revenue savings or income result from any sale not just capital receipts.

(18) Would Cabinet consider consolidating funding to acquire suitable accommodation for residents presenting as homeless in place of temporary accommodation?

The spending review had proposed changes to temporary accommodation funding and the Council would need to model the impact of those changes on the current Private Sector Leasing Scheme to assess whether it would be financially viable to continue or expand our current Scheme.

(19) Should we utilise the outside space at Carrowbreck House to generate income?

The Council was considering all options as to regards the house and its surrounding grounds.

It was emphasised that the Council would always consider options to generate income and/or make savings but they would need a strong business case as resources were limited.

A Member noted that the Local Authority Mortgage Scheme had achieved two objectives: helping first time buyers in the District and generating interest of 4.45 percent for the Council.

(20) What plans did Cabinet have to improve and promote tourism in Broadland, thus generating further income?

With the Tourism Officer located in the Economic Development Team there were more opportunities to liaise with business and tourism. The Council encouraged tourism as a business and an employer in the District, with advice, assistance and support in kind.

The Chairman thanked Cabinet for attending the meeting and answering the

32


15 December 2015

Committee’s questions.

CABINET REPORTS

109 POSSIBLE USE OF COMPULSORY PURCHASE ORDER (CPO) TO ACQUIRE LAND FOR A BURIAL GROUND IN ACLE

The report presented a request by Acle Parish Council for Broadland District Council to make a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for a parcel of land located to the north of the existing cemetery in Acle for the provision of a burial ground extension.

Cabinet had rejected a similar request from the Parish Council in September 2015. However, the Parish Council was no longer requesting to extend the Recreation Ground and had reduced the size of the cemetery extension Accordingly, the area of land they were seeking had been reduced from approximately 3.5 acres to 1 acre.

The Head of Planning had met with the owner of the land and he had confirmed that he was still not willing to sell it to the Parish Council.

The Head of Planning had also looked at possible alternative sites, but he considered the site that the Parish Council was seeking to acquire to be the most appropriate one.

The Parish Council would fully reimburse Broadland for any costs covered by Broadland in making a CPO for the land.

In response to Members’ queries the Head of Planning confirmed that the principle of the CPO request had not materially changed except in size and that the alternative sites would be too expensive because of the cost of associated infrastructure such as parking and access. The land was high quality Grade 1 agricultural land.

The Head of Planning also confirmed that Sport England was highly likely to object to a Planning Application for extending the Burial Ground boundary into the Recreation Ground and this objection would be very hard to argue against, due to the lack of recreational space in the parish.

It was noted that the Parish Council had already been granted Planning Permission for a cemetery on the land, although this conferred no other rights over the land.

Mrs James, the Clerk to Acle Parish Council, advised the meeting that Acle needed a new cemetery as it had a growing population, good facilities and was popular with older people. There was a demand for burials in the village

33


15 December 2015

and the existing cemetery had few spaces left. The Parish Council had looked at various sites, but extending the existing cemetery was the best option. Residents were attached to the cemetery and to have it over two sites would be distressing. It was not considered that the loss of land would make the farm unviable and residents strongly supported the Parish Council with 137 signing a petition in support of the scheme and only six people, including District and County Councillors, against it.

Mr Barnard (supporting the owner of the land), informed the meeting that the Fishley Estate, had formerly had a good relationship with the Parish Council and had given a considerable amount of land to the Parish in the past. However, it did not wish to lose any further land from the estate and this request for a CPO was unacceptable.

Burials were in decline, with only 20 percent of people being interred in this way. He suggested that if this was such an important issue for the Parish Council why had it not been included in the Village Plan or the Neighbourhood Plan? No consultation on this matter had taken place and district and county councillors did not support it. Moreover, the land was only suitable for single depth burials. The churchyard could be brought back into use for burials and had enough spaces for the next 100 years. He confirmed that he would discuss issue with the Bishop of Norwich shortly.

It was noted that the Parish Council was unaware that the Church was considering reusing the churchyard.

Members suggested that better use could be made of the existing cemetery space and it was also suggested that the Parish should negotiate further with the landowner and offer a more attractive price for the land.

However, it was also emphasised that the cost of acquiring the land would be a burden on the precept payers of Acle.

RECOMMEND TO CABINET

Option (3)

to refuse the application to CPO the parcel of land to the north of Pyebush Lane, Acle.

110 DRAYTON NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN

The report presented a proposed Neighbourhood Plan from Drayton Parish Council.

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15 December 2015

It was considered that the Neighbourhood Plan had met the criteria set out by Government legislation and it was, therefore proposed, that Broadland District Council approve the Plan.

If approved a six week public consultation would then take place.


Option (1)

to approve the submission of the Neighbourhood Plan, based on the assessment detailed within section four and send written notice of this decision to Drayton Parish Council.

111 BRUNDALL NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN – EXAMINER’S REPORT

The Report presented the independent Examiner’s report on Brundall Neighbourhood Plan.

Broadland had approved the Plan on 18 June 2015 and this had been followed by a statutory six week consultation period.

The Examiner had considered the representations received in drafting her report, which had concluded that subject to certain modifications the Plan met the conditions and statutory requirements and could therefore proceed to a Referendum.


Option (1)

to approve each of the Examiner’s recommendations, making modifications as detailed within the report, and progress the Neighbourhood Plan to proceed to a Referendum within the Neighbourhood Area (the civil parish of Brundall).

112 COUNCIL TAX REDUCTION SCHEME

The report presented a revised Council Tax Reduction Scheme, following the request by Cabinet at the 24 November 2015 meeting to take greater account of the responses received during the six week public consultation period.

Following the revision the report now recommended the adoption of four proposals relating to: Benefit Rules; using the gross Universal Credit award; provisional CTR award and reducing the maximum backdate period.

35


15 December 2015

Members were requested to note that an Equality Impact Assessment had been carried out for the Scheme.


Options (1, 2)

(1) to note the Equality Impact Assessment;

and

(2) to approve the proposed amendments to the current Council Tax Reduction Scheme to be applied to the 2016/17 Scheme.

113 POTENTIAL CHANGES TO COUNCIL TAX DISCOUNTS

The report proposed reducing the current levels of Council Tax Discount allowed on vacant properties and second homes in the District, which the Council had had discretion to vary since 1 April 2013.

This review would provide the Council with the opportunity to reduce discount levels and the number of empty dwellings by charging owners more Council Tax, as well as to increase revenue at a time of financial pressure.

The changes proposed were to terminate the current levels of discount for Class A and B Second Home Discounts (currently 5 percent). To terminate the Class C discount on properties vacant for up to three months (currently 100 percent) and to terminate the Class D discount available for vacant properties undergoing major repair work or structural alteration (currently 50 percent for up to 12 months).

Members considered that there should be no discounts for Class A and B second homes, but thought that the Class C discount should remain unchanged as there could be many issues and problems that could leave a home empty for three months. Similarly, they considered that vacant properties should continue to receive a 50 percent discount for up to 12 months as major work could take a considerable amount of time.


Option (1, as amended)

to terminate the current levels of discount for Class A and B Second Home Discounts (currently 5 percent). To retain the Class C discount on properties vacant for up to three months (currently 100 percent) and to retain the Class

36


15 December 2015

D discount available for vacant properties undergoing major repair work or structural alteration (currently 50 percent for up to 12 months).

114 PRIVATE SECTOR LEASING SCHEME REVIEW

The report reviewed the Council’s Private Sector Leasing Scheme (PSLS) and sought a decision about future staffing arrangements for it.

Since its inception in 2012 the PSLS had developed into 34 properties with 39 self-contained homes. Over the past 18 months the scheme had assisted 102 households and prevented the equivalent of 2,420 weeks of external temporary accommodation.

Financial analysis of the scheme comparing it with externally managed and traditional temporary accommodation demonstrated that it was by far the most cost effective option.

However, the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement had confirmed that Management Fees would be abolished and an up-front grant would replace them from April 2017, which meant that they might be based on an average and if the number of cases was to rise above that average costs for the Council would rise.

The report, therefore, proposed that the Private Sector Liaison Officer’s temporary post be extended for one year from 31 March 2016, due to uncertainty about receipt of the Management element of Temporary Accommodation from central Government.

The Committee was very impressed by the Scheme, which was superior to the alternative bed and breakfast accommodation.

In response to a request, the Head of Housing and Environmental Services confirmed that if further information was available on the life outcomes of people who had been provided with accommodation through the Scheme, it would be reported back in the next update.


Options (1 and 2)

(1) to note the report;

and

(2) approve the extension of the scheme for a future 12 months through to

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15 December 2015

31/03/17.

115 BROADLAND HANDYPERSON+ SERVICE

The report considered the options available for retaining the Handyperson+ Service, after Norfolk County Council funding ceased on 31 March 2016. The service cost approximately £40,000 a year to run and provided small household repairs for residents over 65.

The Handyperson+ Steering Group had considered means to increase income at its meeting on 24 September 2016 and had agreed the following criteria changes:

• Remove the free labour service for the over 75s (unless they were in receipt of specific benefits).

• Increase the charge from £12 to £15 per hour with a maximum labour charge of £30.

• Materials would be charged for, if not grant eligible.

• Visits per household would be limited to 2 per year.

• Labour would remain free for those in receipt of certain benefits.

• No grants would be available after the end of March 2016.

Since the report was written, Norfolk County Council had given approval to a roll-over of grant monies remaining at the end of March 2016 to enable a service extension, dependant on the availability of dementia adaptation grants.

Also it was hoped that money from Supporting People could be used to support the Handyperson+ Scheme, as it fitted well with their work in providing early help for older people.

Prior to the introduction of the current service a budget of £10,000 was available to pay a private contractor to run the service. This budget was still available, and if used with the income generated from the changes and funding sources above it should be possible to fund the Handyperson+ Service at no additional cost to the Council.

Members were concerned that no funding had been forthcoming from the Clinical Commissioning Group for the service, as it played a key role in helping people to remain living independently and it was suggested that the

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15 December 2015

Council’s representatives raise this issue at the Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee.


Options (1, 2 and 3)

(1) to note the success of first year of the Handyperson+ Service;

and

(2) to endorse the changes to the fee structure and the proposal to extend the service for a further year as agreed by the Steering Group;

and

(3) approve the proposed approach to funding the service in the future.

116 ANNUAL AUDIT LETTER

The Committee noted the External Annual Audit Letter for the year ended 31 March 2015.

Under the Controls, Themes and Observations section a query was raised about reference to ‘significant deficiencies in internal control’. It was confirmed that this point would be clarified after the meeting.

117 EXCLUSION OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC

RESOLVED

to exclude the Press and public from the meeting for the remaining business because otherwise, information which was exempt information by virtue of Paragraphs 1 and 3 of Part I of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, as amended by the Local Government (Access to Information) (Variation) Order 2006 would be disclosed to them.

118 EXEMPT MINUTES

The exempt Minute of the meeting held on 24 November 2015 was noted.

The meeting closed at 12.40.

39

CABINET MEETING – 5 January 2016 Decision List

ITEM & HEADING DECISION 10 Possible use of Compulsory

Purchase Order (CPO) to Acquire Land for a Burial Ground in Acle

Lead Officer Phil Courtier

RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL

to refuse the application to CPO the parcel of land to the north of Pyebush Lane, Acle and recommend that any further CPO request be accompanied by a comprehensive consultation of Acle residents.

11 Drayton Neighbourhood Plan



to approve the submission of the Neighbourhood Plan, based on the assessment detailed within the report, and send written notice of this decision to Drayton Parish Council.

12 Brundall Neighbourhood Plan – Examiner’s Report


RESOLVED

to defer consideration of this matter to the Cabinet meeting on 19 January 2016 meeting and seek a formal response from Brundall Parish Council on the changes proposed in Examiner’s report.

13 Council Tax Reduction Scheme

Lead Officer Jill Penn


to

(1) note the Equality Impact Assessment;

and

(2) approve the proposed amendments to the current Council Tax Reduction Scheme to be applied to the 2016/17 Scheme.

40

14 Potential Changes to Council Tax Discounts



to terminate the current levels of discount for Class A and B Second Home Discounts (currently 5 percent). To terminate the Class C discount on properties vacant for up to three months (currently 100 percent) and to terminate the Class D discount available for vacant properties undergoing major repair work or structural alteration (currently 50 percent for up to 12 months).

15 Private Sector Leasing Scheme Review

Lead Officer Richard Block

RESOLVED

(1) to note the report;

and

(2) approve the extension of the scheme for a future 12 months through to 31/03/17.

16 Broadland Handyperson+ Service

Lead Officer Richard Block

RESOLVED

(1) to note the success of first year of the Handyperson+ Service;

and

(2) to endorse the changes to the fee structure and the proposal to extend the service for a further year as agreed by the Steering Group;

and

(3) approve, in principle, the proposed approach to funding the service in the future, subject to the preparation of a detailed business plan

17 Annual Audit Letter


RESOLVED

to note the Annual Audit Letter 2014/15.

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