Agenda, decisions and minutes

Members are asked to declare any interest and the nature of that interest which they may have in any of the items under consideration at this meeting.

Item 13 - Councillor Adam Brown advised the committee and the MO that he had a business relationship with a food operator that was mentioned in the report.

To confirm the minutes of the meeting of Cabinet held on 13^th July 2021

Amendments made for Item 14;

• Martin Mason, Managing Director of Trickers and the Chairman of Northampton Forward Board had not been given his title in the minutes.
• The project was to be scrutinised by a quantity surveyor not a quality surveyor.
• The s was removed from the end of meetings.

RESOLVED: That the minutes from the Cabinet meeting of the 8^th June were approved and signed as a true and accurate record.?

To receive communications from the Chairman.

The Chairman to advise whether they have agreed to any items of urgent business being admitted to the agenda.

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

a)    Noted the final outturn 2020-21 for all legacy Councils within West Northamptonshire in Appendix A of the report

b)    Noted the estimated reserves and balances brought forward from each legacy Council within West Northamptonshire in section 5 of the report

c)     Noted the early review of 2021-22 financial progress and associated financial risks by Directorate

d)    Noted the deliverability assessment of West Northamptonshire Council savings requirement for 2021-22 and 2022-23 in Appendix D of the report

e)    Agreed to the virement that transfers £2.0m from the central contingency budget to the Place directorate budgets that require this funding

REASONS: To ensure that the Authority complies with its financial regulations

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: None

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST DELCARED AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Malcolm Longley presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated.

Councillor Bowen noted that the language used in the report made it look as if the savings made had been from cuts and not from productivity improvement. It was felt that it was important to note that NCC’s recovery had been based on productivity.

Councillors made the following comments.

• The question of whether there were plans in place to deal with any gaps identified in the report was raised.
• An update on the suspense account was requested as it would give an indication as to the efficiency of the Council.
• It was queried as to why contingency had been placed against the highways overspend and not adult social services.
• With regards to vacancies within the finance team, how would this be dealt with in regards to overspend.
• A councillor queried why Covid funds that had been ring-fenced were being used.
• There had been little detail given with regards the overspend in Adult Social Care and the current care sector crisis.

Councillor Matt Golby made the following comments.

• The overspend that was shown in the report was that of the financial position this year.
• Assistance was being given to the care sector, updated figures could be provided if desired.
• The Adults directorate has the largest budget with regular updates provided.
• The committee and those present were reminded the Council was still dealing with an unprecedented situation.

Councillor Malcolm Longley made the following comments.

• Ring-fenced funds would only be used for the started purposes.
• So far £2.8 had been distributed amongst small business to aid in their recovery.

Martin Henry made the following comments.

• The committee was informed that there were various different funds related to Covid, and the report referenced many of these.
• There had been a £12.5-million-pound budget which was dedicated to Covid.
• Any grant funding that had not been allocated had been carried forward and earmarked with the intention to use it for covid issues, but many of those funds were not ring-fenced.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet;

1. Noted the final outturn 2020-21 for all legacy Councils within West Northamptonshire in Appendix A; 

2. Noted the estimated reserves and balances brought forward from each legacy Council within West Northamptonshire in section 5;  

3. Noted the early review of 2021-22 financial progress and associated financial risks by Directorate; 

4. Noted the deliverability assessment of West Northamptonshire Council savings requirement for 2021-22 and 2022-23 in Appendix D. 
5. Agreed to the virement that transfers £2.0m from the central contingency budget to the Place directorate budgets that require this funding

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

a)    Noted the provisional capital outturn position from all legacy WNC authorities for the financial year 2020-21

b)    Noted the proposed capital carry forwards for the GF and HRA capital programmes as detailed in appendices A and B of the repor

c)     Noted the latest capital budget and Medium-Term Financial Plan for the GF and HRA

d)    Noted the new schemes that had been approved since 1st April 2021 or were in the process of being approved.

REASONS: This in accordance with the policy of the Council and constitution

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: None

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST DECLARED AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Malcolm Longley presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated. Councillor Longley noted that the first quarter had been a difficult one as the predecessor authorities were coming together and this would take some time to sort out. There had been 122 projects bought over to WNC from the predecessor authorities. Councillors were invited to email Councillor Longley with any queries about any of the projects.

Councillors made the following comments.

·         It was questioned what risks were attached to the Section 106 monies received.

·         Supply chains had been affected due to Brexit and some capital had to be re-phased. It was questioned whether there had been inflationary pressures.

·         How would the disposal policy be constructed with regards to assets?

·         Alongside strategy, how could councillors build social capital in their areas?

·         Could the asset list be made accessible to members if requested?

·         It had been agreed that after OAS all major builds would be discussed with councillors. An update on Old Lion Court was requested, with input from scrutiny.

·         Could there be an update on the re-development of Sponne Arcade.

Councillor Longley made the following comments.

·         With regard to re-phasing and material costs it was noted that there was a fixed-priced contract and as such there would be a risk.

·         Some projects had been re-evaluated.

·         There was no update on the Sponne Arcade redevelopment.

Simon Bowers added that an asset list was available, it was however, not as robust as was wanted, but he would be happy to share on request. The committee was advised that there was process in place as to how to dispose of items.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet;

1. Noted the provisional capital outturn position from all legacy WNC authorities for the financial year 2020-21 

2. Noted the proposed capital carry forwards for the GF and HRA capital programmes as detailed in appendices A and B 

3. Noted the latest capital budget and Medium Term Financial Plan for the GF and HRA 

4. Noted the new schemes that have been approved since 1^st April 2021 or are in the process of being approved

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

a)    Noted the content of the appendix covering the 1st quarter of 2021-22

REASONS: This report is for information and discussion only, there are no direct decisions to be made following the report.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: None

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST DECLARED AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

Chairman and Council Leader Councillor Jonathan Nunn presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated. The committee was reminded that this was an evolving list with many services which included new processes.

Councillor Golby made the following comments.

·         It was noted that with regards to ‘life chances’ most of the data was not yet available. It was hoped that more information could be provided in the next quarter.

·         A list of commentary could be provided if anyone would like to see it.

Councillors made the following comments.

·         Could more information be given with regard to the number of trees that have been planted as part of the Council’s green and clean incentive.

·         Some of the data provided, such as the percentages of referrals from Children’s Services was now old. The committee was asked when new data would be available.

·         At several points in the report ‘West Northants Data not available’ is stated. The question of when this would be available was raised.

·         Scrutiny briefings for the Children’s Trust were requested.

Councillor Fiona Baker that dates had been set for the Children’s Trust scrutiny meeting and a meeting with the Chief Executive of the Children’s Trust was being arranged.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet noted the contents of the report.

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

1.     Noted the contents of the report.

REASONS: Update paper for information only, no decisions required

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: None

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST DECLARED AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

Chairman and Council Leader Councillor Jonathan Nunn presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated. It was noted that transformation had become part of the culture of the Council with key pieces of work already underway.

Councillors made the following comments.

·         It was noted that equality impact, diversity and climate hadn’t been mentioned much in the report.

·         What had been the cost of the electronic management system, and what had been achieved by its purchase?

·         Future ways of working was mentioned which included restructure, could this mean potential redundancies?

The Executive Director of Corporate made the following comments.

·         The committee was advised that every directorate had a large amount of projects to put in place and the next report would be more detailed.

·         Work was being done on apprentice opportunities.

·         The electronic management system was a low level cost and had allowed more project management to take place.

Catherine Whitehead advised that she would be taking tour of management teams to discuss governance issues.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet; noted the contents of the report.

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

1.     Noted the contents and recommendations of the Ombudsman’s reports

REASONS: It is good practice to note the findings and recommendations of the Ombudsman and support their implementation across Council services, in order to improve customer experience, value for money and outcomes for residents.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: None

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST DECLARED AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Mike Hallam presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated.

Councillor Bob Purser noted that the report had not highlighted what the council had learned from previous complaints.  

RESOLVED: That Cabinet; noted the content and recommendations of the Ombudsman’s reports

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

a)    Approved the West Northamptonshire Strategic Plan: Spatial Options Consultation Paper (Appendix A) for the purposes of public consultation as set out in the report.

b)    Approved the West Northamptonshire Local Development Scheme (Appendix B) which would have effect upon expiry of the call-in period for Cabinet decisions.

c)     Noted the responses to the consultation on the draft Statement of Community Involvement and adopted the Statement of Community Involvement with the amendments set out in Appendix C.

d)    Delegated to the Assistant Director: Growth, Climate and Regeneration, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Planning, Built Environment and Rural Affairs, authority to make minor editorial and presentational changes to the above documents in their final published form.

REASONS:

1.     The development plan (or local plan) is central to the planning system with a requirement in law that planning decisions must be taken in line with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Each local planning authority must identify their strategic priorities and have policies to address these in their local plans. It is essential that plans are in place and up to date. The preparation of the West Northamptonshire Strategic Plan is required to ensure that the new council has an up-to-date development plan, and the spatial options consultation is the key next step in the preparation of the plan.

2.     An LDS is required which sets out the Local Plans, which when prepared, will comprise part of the development plan for the area. The LDS must be made available publicly and kept up to date. For West Northamptonshire a new LDS is needed to set out the revised timetable for the West Northamptonshire Strategic Plan and also for the remaining stages of the Northampton Local Plan (Part 2).

3.     Local authorities are also required to have in place an up-to-date SCI. Consultation has been undertaken on the SCI. This report sets out the responses received during the consultation and proposes changes in response to the representations. If adopted it would set out how the Strategic Plan will be consulted upon, at the various stages of preparation.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: None

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST DECLARED AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None.

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Rebecca Breese presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated. The report presented an explanation of the scale of the housing requirements The committee was advised that there were a number of potential options. All of the options presented had been informed by any feedback that had been received. It was advised that further technical work was required and no firm decisions had been made yet and that consultations would take place on an 8-week timeframe starting in November. Several background reports would be presented and all responses brought back to Cabinet.

Councillors made the following comments. 

·         It was accepted that there would be a large amount of growth in the south of the county.

·         It was queried as to why there had been no involvement of ward members so far, and why officers who do not know the area well would make the decisions.

·         It was noted that the author of the report did not seem to be familiar with the south of the county.

·         The committee was reminded that the Cambridgeshire – Oxford Arc had not yet been defined.

·         It was accepted that this had been a consultation, but it was queried whether views from residents about this would be taken into consideration. Could there be a delay to look at other options?

·         The committee was reminded that consideration should also be given to transport, specifically public transport.

·         There had been concerns that this could transform the character of the area, and was felt to be very pro-Northampton, with not much consideration given to outside areas.

·         The report had advised that 33,000 new homes were needed and that half of these would be built in the countryside, there had been no urban capacity proposed in the report.

·         It was noted that the proposed development in south Northants would increase the proximity of Towcester and Northampton, with many of the roads in the area already at capacity.

·         It was felt that the local development scheme should ensure conformity and that an urgent review must take place.

·         The Fraser Road development was mentioned.

·         The committee was reminded that climate change should be discussed, as there needed to be radical changes made.

·         It was asked if the new settlements could include a transit site for travellers as needs had not been met in this area.

·         It was felt that there could have been further information on social values included in the report.

Councillor Rebecca Breese made the following comments.

·         The process would be a very detailed one and many workshops had taken place with the previous authorities.

·         The importance of transport, and specifically public transport, was understood.

·         All concerns and comments would be taken on board.

·         It was noted that this would be a large development scheme and several planning documents would be coming forward for investigation.

·         It was advised that the best way to have concerns noted would be to contact the investigators directly.

·         It was stated that the Fraser Road development was  ...  view the full minutes text for item 28.

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

1.     Received the results of the recent consultation on the A422 Farthinghoe Bypass and agreed the timescales for further work

REASONS:

·       To progress the delivery of the A422 Farthinghoe Bypass, which is a priority scheme for the Council.

·       The recommendation reflects the results of the consultation and scheme assessment work and the need to examine the points raised in the detailed consultation comments in more detail.

·       The timescales for further work are based on the processes to be followed to gain statutory and funding approval for a major highway scheme.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS:

1.     Following the identification of funding to progress the scheme by the former County Council and South Northamptonshire Council, further work to develop four northern route options was undertaken in 2020.

2.     A plan showing the four northern route options, with the 2016 southern route included for comparison, can be found at Appendix A of the report.

3.     A Scheme Assessment Report provided a technical overview of the routes. The desktop environmental impact assessment showed that the impacts of the four northern routes were very close:

·       Northern Routes V0 and V1 scored best on Landscape impacts

·       Northern Route V1 scored worse than the other routes on Materials Waste impacts

·       Northern Route V3 scored best on Road Drainage – Groundwater Impact

·       Northern Route V0 scored worst on Road Drainage Flood Risk/Surface Water impacts

Overall Northern Routes V0 and V3 scored slightly better than routes V1 and V2.

4.     The Scheme Assessment Report can be found on the website at

https://www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/councilservices/northamptonshire-highways/majorhighway-projects/Pages/a422-farthinghoe-bypass-consultation.aspx

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST DECLARED AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Phil Larratt presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated. The committee was informed that there had been clear support for the bypass, specifically the northern route, and this had been shared with local ward members. The paper outlined the next steps and the issues that were raised during consultation. Lessons had been learned and the project had been undertaken in a robust, safe and sensible way and would not be rushed. Once the route is agreed then a business case would be developed, with the opening estimated for 2028. Officers had been asked to consider interim options due to it being a dangerous area with narrow roads and footpaths, this could also help with the business case and could add to the economic case. The committee was assured that every opportunity was being taken to secure investment.

Councillor Adam Brown noted that the timescales were frustrating but that Cabinet and WNC were putting their whole weight behind it.

Councillors made the following comments.

·         The bypass was important and it was good to see interim measures were being looked at.

·         It was noted that the report had stated that costs could rise, this had been laid out for people to see easily.

·         Could WNC also look at other areas where roads had outlived their purpose?

Councillor Phil Larratt agreed that it was important to be honest about costs and that further information should be available in about a months’ time.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet;received the results of the recent consultation on the A422 Farthinghoe Bypass and agreed the timescales for further work.  

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

a)    Approved the Food Safety Service Plan for the year 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022

b)    Approved the Food and Feed Standards Service Plan for the year 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022

c)     Approved the Spray Paint Enforcement Plan for 2021-22

d)    Approved the Tobacco Enforcement Plan for 2021-22.

REASONS:

The recommendations are necessary to meet with the requirements of the Food Standards Agency and relevant legislative requirements.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: None

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST DECLARED AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: Councillor Brown advised that one of the businesses listed on the report was a supplier to a business listed on his Register of Interests (non-pecuniary).

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor David Smith presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated. It was advised that Covid had had some impact and services were now getting up to speed. The report had also advised that work was being carried out with food standards agencies.

A Councillor noted that there were currently 340 outstanding inspections and there had been no details in the report about getting this number down.

The Executive Director of Place & Economy advised that many of the officers had been doing work that wasn’t in their remit during Covid, and as such some objectives had not been met. This would be continually monitored.

Councillor Adam Brown advised the committee and the MO that he had a business relationship with a food operator that was mentioned in the report.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet;

1. Approved the Food Safety Service Plan for the year 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022 
2. Approved the Food and Feed Standards Service Plan for the year 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022 
3. Approved the Spray Paint Enforcement Plan for 2021-22 
4. Approved the Tobacco Enforcement Plan for 2021-22. 

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

a)    Endorsed that the conservation area boundaries as set out in appendix E of the report be designated as conservation areas.

b)    Endorsed that the proposed changes to the Hellidon conservation area appraisal and management plan and Spratton conservation area appraisal and management plan in response to representations, as set out in appendices A to D of the report be approved.

c)     Endorsed that further minor editorial changes be made to the Hellidon conservation area appraisal and management plan and Spratton conservation area appraisal and management plan including to reflect the fact that the documents will be in their final adopted form.

d)    Endorsed that the conservation area appraisal and management plans for Hellidon and Spratton be adopted as supplementary planning documents.

e)    Endorsed the local list entries for Hellidon and Spratton set out in appendix F of the report.

f)      Endorsed that article 4(1) directions for Hellidon and Spratton, in accordance with the proposals in the conservation area appraisal and management plans, be made subject to consultation (appendices G and H of the report).

g)    Agreed to “make” the article 4(1) directions contained at appendix J of the report.

h)    Agreed to consult upon the article 4(1) directions contained at appendix J of the report.

REASONS:

1.     Hellidon and Spratton Conservation Areas

This course of action will put measures in place to help safeguard the heritage of Hellidon and Spratton.

2.     Article 4(1) Directions for conservation areas at Weedon Bec, Flore, Everdon, Little Everdon, Staverton, Kilsby, Welford and Pitsford (2021)

The introduction of article 4(1) directions within conservation areas allows the council to manage change within historic areas on a case-by-case basis through the planning system. If the article 4(1) directions are made and confirmed it will therefore help to preserve and enhance the character and appearance of conservation areas. Consultation is required as part of the legal process for making and confirming article 4(1) directions.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS:

Hellidon and Spratton Conservation Areas

1.     The alternative options would be not to endorse the designation of the conservation area boundaries and the adoption of the Hellidon conservation area appraisal and management plan and Spratton conservation area appraisal and management plan as a supplementary planning documents, not to endorse the candidates for the local list, and not to ‘make’ the article 4(1) directions.

2.     Not endorsing the boundary designations, the adoption of the appraisal and management plans, not endorsing the candidates for the local list, and not ‘making’ the proposed article 4(1) directions would leave the council without valuable tools with which to protect and enhance the special architectural and historic interest of these villages.

Article 4(1) Directions for conservation areas at Weedon Bec, Flore, Everdon, Little Everdon, Staverton, Kilsby, Welford and Pitsford (2021)

Not “making” and “confirming” the article 4(1) directions would leave the council without valuable tools with which to preserve and enhance the special architectural and historic interest of these villages.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST DECLARED AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Phil Larratt presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated. The committee was informed that several amendments would be made to the reports. The importance of Article 4 was discussed which would allow features of historical value to be looked at case by case. It was noted that Daventry District Council had been the authority to make the most use of this article in the past.

A Councillor asked what WNC could do to ensure that the same level of care was given to historical urban areas.

Councillor Rebecca Breese noted that residents take pride in their communities if well designed.

Councillor Adam Brown advised that the process had started in NBC and that if necessary the process could be stopped; this would be a decision for Cabinet.

Councillor Phil Larratt advised that conservation areas had recently been looked at using article 4, and that parish councils would have a key role in this.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet;

a)    Endorsed that the conservation area boundaries as set out in appendix E be designated as conservation areas.

b)    Endorsed that the proposed changes to the Hellidon conservation area appraisal and management plan and Spratton conservation area appraisal and management plan in response to representations, as set out in appendices A to D be approved.

c)    Endorsed that further minor editorial changes be made to the Hellidon conservation area appraisal and management plan and Spratton conservation area appraisal and management plan including to reflect the fact that the documents will be in their final adopted form.

d)    Endorsed that the conservation area appraisal and management plans for Hellidon and Spratton be adopted as a supplementary planning documents.

e)    Endorsed the local list entries for Hellidon and Spratton set out in appendix F.

f)     Endorsed that article 4(1) directions for Hellidon and Spratton, in accordance with the proposals in the conservation area appraisal and management plans, be made subject to consultation (appendices G and H).

g)    Agreed to “make” the article 4(1) directions contained at appendix J.

h)    Agreed to consult upon the article 4(1) directions contained at appendix J

RESOLVED: Cabinet;                        

a)    Noted the work to date on securing £6.2m of Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme grant allocation for West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire, and the next steps required to progress the project.

b)    Approved the use of the ring-fenced Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme grant funding of £6.2m to deliver innovative flood resilience measures across the two catchments, one in each of West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire, as set out in the report.

REASONS:

1.     The recommendations proposed align closely with the objectives established in the WNC Corporate Plan 2021-2025.

2.     The recommendations proposed align with the Northamptonshire Local Flood Risk Management Strategy and will see the significant improvement in flood resilience of communities in two priority catchments, with learning to be applied to future flood risk management work across both councils.

3.     The recommended course of action is in line with the objectives, outputs and benefits expected from the Flood and Coastal Risk Innovation Programme (FCRIP), to develop and test new approaches to improving flood resilience.

4.     The recommendations above are required to progress the flood resilience measures as submitted to the FCRIP.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: None

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST DECLARED AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Phil Larratt presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated.  The flood tool kit was mentioned as a way to help people prepare should flooding occur, various solutions were discussed in the report, such as nature based solutions, flood wardens and making properties more resilient. There had been discussions between the council and Anglian Water.

Councillors made the following comments.

·         Some areas such as Far Cotton had not been mentioned in the report. Would Far Cotton be first on the list to receive assistance of any flood money received from the government.

·         The flood mobile had been useful, with regards to further resilience would there be grants provided for people to put these practices into place.

·         The committee was asked whether flood proofing would be more green.

Councillor Pinder Chauhan noted that this money had been allocated to flood resilience as it could be the only funding they receive.

The Assistant Director Assets noted that the funding had been given specifically for flood resilience and a more permanent solution would be required for Far Cotton.

Councillor Phil Larratt noted that the report was not about stopping flooding but about community resilience.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet;

1. Noted the work to date on securing £6.2m of Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme grant allocation for West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire, and the next steps required to progress the project.
2. Approved the use of the ring-fenced Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme grant funding of £6.2m to deliver innovative flood resilience measures across the two catchments, one in each of West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire, as set out in the report

The Chairman invited Parish Councillor Yvonne Swallows to speak on item 16. Cllr Swallows made the following points:

• The committee was informed that Moulton parish council would be against the building of a new school on this site.
• There would be a substantial increase in traffic in the area, especially as the road chosen is a dead end. The A43 could also have an increase in the amount of traffic making roundabout access difficult, which would also make it more dangerous.
• The ‘good transport and safe walking routes’ idea would not work for this site.
• The school site chosen is next to woodland that could also be impacted.
• As an academy school with its own policies in place, the question as to whether the school could pick and choose who to admit was raised.
• The question of whether the council had looked into other sites was asked.
• The committee was reminded that Moulton already had a secondary school.

The Chair then invited Oliver Harris to speak on Item 16 on behalf of NSB as the Project Manager for the Trust.  Mr Harris made the following comments.

• The committee was informed that Northampton Schools for Boy’s is now a multi academy site.
• Proposals for other sites had been submitted, but it was noted that wherever the school is placed there would be an effect on the residents of that area.
• The need for transport adjustments was discussed as important.
• The committee was informed that NSB would attempt to mitigate impacts as far as possible.
• NSB has a good academic record, and it was felt that there would be no reason for the new school to not be the same.
• It was agreed that the support from the people of Moulton would be important.

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Baker presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated. Councillor Baker made the following comments;

• A good case had been put forward and a good school had been chosen to lead this project.
• There had been several queries which were sent back to planning for responses.
• The committee and public were reminded that it was the job of the Council and of Councillor Baker to provide a secondary school.
• The Department of Education had completed a consultation with regards to the site.
• It was advised that as of September 2022 many extra spaces would be needed to accommodate students.

Councillor Larratt made the following comments.

• Meetings had taken place with local members, during which traffic implications had been discussed.
• It was agreed that it was important to keep traffic flowing in the area and try to avoid congestion.
• It was noted that access to the site would need to be looked at.
• There were concerns about young people crossing the A43 in order to get into the school grounds, as such the correct crossing facilities would have to be implemented.

Stuart Timmiss noted that the site analysis had been one step in the programme, with the lease subject to planning and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 33.

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

1.     Approved the re-procurement of the facilities management service and maintenance contracts as set out in the report.

REASONS:

·       To ensure that the Council complies with statutory and regulatory duties.

·       To ensure that Council properties are safe and fit for use.

·       Maximising cost-effectiveness.

·       To minimise depreciation of Council assets

·       Provide customers and staff of the Council with buildings which are fit for purpose and welcoming.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS:

1.     Insourcing of the service. Insourcing decisions are often made to obtain control of a critical production or competency; conversely outsourcing decisions are often made to reduce ‘noncore’ in-house operations and to reduce some costs, typically by taking advantage of specialist providers, the ability of supplies to aggregate demand and thus produce economies of scale, competitive market forces, and by reducing employment costs. Insourcing can make sense in some cases, notably where the Council has sufficient demand to sustain a level of staffing and expertise in the services in question, and when quality of outsourced provision hard to control. However, the existing contracts for these services have generally operated well, and insourcing would be likely also create significant new costs associated with pension liabilities.

2.     Disaggregation of the contracts into small lots. The current  rocurement strategy relies on aggregating all specific service contracts requirements into single contracts with single specialist suppliers for each field. This is in order to attract the greatest commercial interest from the market and obtain additional value and/or reduce cost through efficiency of scale, and minimise the administrative burden on the Council. This approach has previously attracted significant market interest and has provided exceptionally competitive rates. A disaggregation would increase the time and processes requirement for administration of the contracts and is Page 302 likely to increase the contract costs too, particularly for small remote sites. It is considered it strikes the right balance between the different levels of packaging services.

3.     Aggregation of the contracts into one or a small number of multi-service contracts. To deliver such an aggregated service is likely to require the principal provider to let a number of subcontracts for specialisms. As outlined above, it is considered that the proposed set of contracts enables specialist suppliers to bid, without the overheads which come from having a large entity seeking to co-ordinate the units actually providing services. The division into specialist areas also increases the potential for bids from small and medium businesses (‘SMEs’) and local suppliers.

4.     Use of a Council-owned or jointly-owned entity (e.g. West Northamptonshire Norse Limited). These are traditionally known as Teckal companies, after the exemption in public procurement law which allows direct awards to entities controlled by a body such as the Council. This falls somewhere between the insourcing and outsourcing options, having benefits such as on pension liabilities and potential for profit generations from third parties, but without the competitive pressure of a procurement. It would take time and staff resource the Council does not currently have to pursue this approach at this time. It is intended  ...  view the full decision text for item 34.

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Malcolm Longley presented the report copies of which had been previously circulated. The committee was informed that there were many contracts coming together and that WNC were keen to get the best option.

A councillor made the following comments.

·         There had been no mention of the analysis of cost consequences.

·         Social value and climate impact had not been mentioned in the report.

Councillor Adam Brown noted that the National Insurance rise would impact the council financially.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet; approved the re-procurement of the facilities management service and maintenance contracts as set out in the report

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Lizzy Bowen presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated. The money offered to WNC for this project had been one of the largest in the UK. The committee was advised that the council would need to provide £400,000 for the project the rest would come from the Towns Fund.

The project would include an extension to the building and garden path creating an educational garden route. The Council had provided a robust business case in order to secure this funding. The committee was informed that the museum itself had been required to find some of its own funding, which they had done.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet;

a)    Approved the business case for the Extension of 78 Derngate project, in order to draw down on £400,000 of Towns Funding.

b)   Delegated authority to the Head of Major Projects and Regeneration to finalise the Grant Funding Agreement with 78 Derngate Trust.

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

1.     delegated authority to the Assistant Director Assets and Environment to vary the terms of the agreement for lease between the Council and the Delapre Abbey Preservation Trust relating to the 19th Century Stable Block, as set out in the report.

REASONS:

1.     Agreeing to extend the longstop date in the Agreement for Lease and making the other changes would:

2.     Maximise the opportunity to see the plan for the Delapre Abbey site implemented, and also help sustain the Delapre Abbey Preservation Trust, thus securing important public benefits and community resources.

3.     Make it more likely that public expectations will be fulfilled.

4.     Minimise the risk of costs falling on the Council to restore and manage the 19th Century Stable Yard.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS:

1.     WNC could refuse consent to the extension of the longstop date in the agreement to lease. This is not recommended as it as it would cause uncertainty and discourage DAPT from proceeding with their plans to bring the premises back into use. The vision for the 19th Century Stable Block is part of DAPT wider vision for Delapre Abbey which would be adversely impacted if the stables were not developed.

2.     WNC could also consider whether to develop the site itself. However, no viable alternative uses other than those proposed by DAPT have been identified. The buildings are in a poor state of repair and would require substantial capital investment which has not currently been provided for. In addition to this, any future use of the site would need to be sympathetic to the wider services offered at Delapre Abbey so as not to have a detrimental impact on overall viability.

3.     WNC could let the stables as storage, but it is likely the income set against the cost of maintenance would not make this a financially viable option.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Malcolm Longley presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet; That delegated authority be given to the Assistant Director Assets and Environment to vary the terms of the agreement for lease between the Council and the Delapre Abbey Preservation Trust relating to the 19^th Century Stable Block, as set out in the report

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

a)    Noted the contents of the report

b)    Approved, for consultation purposes only, the LCTRS outlined in this report for West Northamptonshire for the year 2022-2023.

REASONS:

To enable a consultation process to take place on a proposed Local Council Tax Reduction Scheme for West Northants Council for the financial year 2022-23 and for the final scheme to be approved and in place by 31 January 2022.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: None

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Malcolm Longley presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated.

Councillor Fiona Baker advised on the care leavers council tax reduction as some of the tasks they had been asked to complete were not achievable.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet;

1. Noted the contents of this report 
2. Approved, for consultation purposes only, the LCTRS outlined in this report for West Northamptonshire for the year 2022-2023

RESOLVED: Cabinet;

a)    Considered and approved the proposal to capital fund the replacement of the Library Management System and associated hardware.

REASONS:

·       The Library Management System is a key requirement for delivering the statutory library service

·       The current contract must end on 31st March 2022 and cannot be extended. A replacement must be procured in order to ensure continuity of service.

·       The associated equipment for running the Library Management System is now 9 years old and at end of life. Replacing the equipment now will ensure that it is compatible with the new system, compatible with West Northants and North Northants IT Roadmaps and future proofed.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: None

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST AND DISPENSATIONS GRANTED: None

The Chairman advised the committee that the appendix to this item was exempt and should anyone wish to discuss it then the committee would have to go into private session.

At the Chairman’s invitation Councillor Adam Brown presented the report, copies of which had been previously circulated. The committee was informed that Library Management System would end next year and as such it was important for a new contract to be in place. The council would not be filling its statutory requirements If the contract were not put into place.

RESOLVED: That Cabinet; Considered and approved the proposal to capital fund the replacement of the Library Management System and associated hardware.

The following report(s) contain exempt information as defined in the following paragraph(s) of Part 1, Schedule 12A of Local Government Act 1972.

Paragraph 3 – Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including the authority holding that information).

Members are reminded that whilst the following item(s) have been marked as exempt, it is for the meeting to decide whether or not to consider each of them in private or in public. In making the decision, members should balance the interests of individuals or the Council itself in having access to the information. In considering their discretion members should also be mindful of the advice of Council Officers.

Should Members decide not to make a decision in public, they are recommended to resolve as follows:

“That under Section 100A of the Local Government Act 1972, the public and press be excluded from the meeting for the following item(s) of business on the grounds that, if the public and press were present, it would be likely that exempt information falling under the provisions of Schedule 12A, Part I, Paragraph 3 would be disclosed to them, and that in all the circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.”