There were no apologies for absence.

To approve as a correct record, the Minutes of the meeting of Executive held on 13 October 2009.

RESOLVED:

That the minutes of the meeting held on 13 October 2009 were confirmed and signed by the Chairman as a correct record.

If any.

The Chairman warmly welcomed Richard Carr, Chief Executive to his first meeting of the Executive.

The Chairman then announced that she was going to vary the order of business and take Agenda Item No’s 13, 14 and 15 after Agenda Item 6, Public Participation.

To receive the following petitions in accordance with the Scheme of Public Participation set out in Annex 2 of Part A4 of the Constitution:

1.            Repair of the footpaths in Southfields, Shefford – A petition has been received from residents objecting at the state of the disrepair of the footpaths in Southfields, Shefford and asking that the highways section put repairs to the footpaths in Southfields at the top of their agenda.

2.            Objection to the withdrawal of the 97 bus service - A petition has been received from residents in Stotfold and Fairfield Park objecting to the withdrawal of the 97 bus service. The petition explains that the 97 bus service is the only one connecting Stotfold and Fairfield Park to Letchworth and Hitchin with all their services including the mainline railway station.   The petitioners consider it is essential for those without transport, for shopping, recreation, hospital and medical visits. The petition also states that many commuters do not wish to use their cars and many youngsters use the bus service.  

In accordance with the Scheme of Public Participation set out in Annex 2 of Part 4 of the Constitution the Executive received 2 petitions relating to highway matters.

(i)                 Objection to the withdrawal of the 97 bus service - Petition received from residents in Stotfold and Fairfield Park objecting to the withdrawal of the 97 bus service.

The Chairman advised that as a result of the Executive agreeing at its last meeting held on 13 October 2009 that support would only be withdrawn from the three poorer value for money bus services listed on page 31 of the Executive agenda (Minute E/09/76 refers), which did not include the number 97 bus service, it was agreed that the Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities would write a letter to the petitioner to advise that the Council continues to provide support for the 97 bus service.

(ii)        Repair of Footpaths in Southfields, Shefford

            Mr Michael  Butcher, presented a petition from residents objecting to the state of  dis-repair of the footpaths in Southfields, Shefford and requesting that the highways section put repairs to the footpaths in Southfields at the top of their agenda.  Mr Butcher in speaking about the problems associated with the condition of the footpaths circulated a number of photographs showing the problems.

            The Executive in thanking Mr Butcher for presenting the petition, advised that in order that due consideration could be given to the petition, the petition would be referred for more detailed deliberation to a future public Traffic Management Meeting with the Safer and Stronger Communities Portfolio Holder. Mr Butcher was advised that he would be notified of the date of this meeting at least two weeks in advance and as the lead petitioner would have a right to speak at this meeting. 

RESOLVED:

That the following petition be referred for detailed consideration to a future Traffic Management Meeting with the Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities:

Repair of the footpaths in Southfields, Shefford – Petition received from residents objecting at the state of the disrepair of the footpaths in Southfields, Shefford and asking that the highways section put repairs to the footpaths in Southfields at the top of their agenda.

To deal with general questions and statements from members of the public in accordance with the scheme of public participation set out in Appendix A to the Public Participation Scheme.

The Chairman anounced that there were were five requests to speak in accordance with the Scheme of Public Participation to be dealt with at the start of the following agenda items:

Item 14 - The Planning Obligations Strategy Supplementary Planning                   Document for Central Bedfordshire North

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Item 15 -  LDF (North):  Site Allocations Development Plan Document  

The report proposes a new process for Town Centre Management and the removal of Town Centre Management Committees from the Central Bedfordshire Constitution.

This item was deferred to a future meeting of the Executive.

This item was deferred to a future meeting of the Executive.

The report proposes priorities for the Job Growth Investment Programme, and seeks authority to progress legacy capital projects.

1. That approval be given to the following legacy capital projects to proceed:

(a)         Flitwick Town Centre Development Network Rail Progression Project (£100,000 GAF3 funded)

(b)         Brewers Hill Road Dunstable, Remediation Work (£100,000 EEDA funded)

(c)         Cranfield Technology Park Acceleration (£290,000 forward funding to be recouped from the developers).

2. That the priorities for Employment Site Acceleration, as set out in paragraphs 9 to 14 in the submitted report, be agreed.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Ken Matthews, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth and Regeneration proposing priorities for the Job Growth Investment Programme. The report also sought authority to progress three legacy capital projects.  Attention was drawn to the Chairman’s Briefing Note that contained revised Appendices to replace the Appendices circulated with the main agenda and re-phrasing for clarity the last sentence of Paragraph 11 on page 59 of the agenda.

Introducing the report the Portfolio Holder explained that the Council had a major challenge to create new jobs to support Central Bedfordshire’s ambitious growth targets which was set against the background of the current global and national recession. The submitted report set out details of how this would be achieved through strategic leadership and partnership working with other agencies, Appendix 1 provided a summary of the proposed approach.  £1m per annum had also been included in the Job Growth Investment Programme capital budget over 3 years to help achieve this. 

As a result of the Executive considering the three capital investment projects brought forward from the legacy authorities a member questioned whether there were any on-going revenue costs associated with these projects proceeding.  The Portfolio Holder advised that there were no revenue implications arising from the Flitwick and Brewers Hill Road, Dunstable projects.  Any associated revenue implications from the Cranfield project would be included as part of recouping costs from the developers.

Concluding the general discussion members asked to be kept informed of progress with the programme.

Reason for decisions:  To enable progress with delivering job growth and new investment in Central Bedfordshire.

RESOLVED:

1.                  That approval be given to the following legacy capital projects to proceed:

(a)         Flitwick Town Centre Development Network Rail Progression Project (£100,000 GAF3 funded)

(b)        Brewers Hill Road Dunstable, Remediation Work (£100,000 EEDA funded)

(c)         Cranfield Technology Park Acceleration (£290,000 forward funding to be recouped from the developers).

2.                  That the priorities for Employment Site Acceleration, as set out in paragraphs 9 to 14 in the submitted report, be agreed.

The report seek Executive approval to proceed with the externally East of England Development Agency funded capital programme for 2009/10

1. That approval be given to the expenditure in 2009/10 of £595,000 capital funding from the EEDA Economic Participation Programme allocated to Central Bedfordshire Council for the seven projects set out in the Project Initiation Documents attached at Appendix A to the submitted report.

2. That the delegated authority be given to the Director of Sustainable Communities, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth and Regeneration, to approve the remaining unallocated capital of £79,493 for 2009/10.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Ken Matthews, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth and Regeneration seeking approval to proceed with the externally funded East of England Development Agency (EEDA) capital programme for 2009/10.

The Portfolio Holder advised the Executive that EEDA was providing £674,493 capital grant to Central Bedfordshire Council for 2009/10 towards the delivery of activity as detailed in Appendix A to the submitted report. The Economic Participation Capital Programme for Central Bedfordshire was designed to increase prosperity by providing opportunity to raise levels of economic activity. It was noted that the Economic Participation Capital Projects had been approved by both the Local Strategic Partnership’s Economy and Environment Thematic Partnership and EEDA.

During the ensuing discussion the Portfolio Holder for Corporate Resources questioned the revenue on-costs of the capital projects that would fall upon the Authority.  The Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth and Regeneration advised, as far as he was currently aware, that there were no additional revenue costs arising from the projects.

Reason for decisions: To take advantage of the external funding made available by EEDA to assist in the delivery of Council and Local Strategic priorities and ensure delivery by March31^st 2010 or the funding may be withdrawn.

RESOLVED:

1.            That approval be given to the expenditure in 2009/10 of £595,000 capital funding from the EEDA Economic Participation Programme allocated to Central Bedfordshire Council for the seven projects set out in the Project Initiation Documents attached at Appendix A to the submitted report.

2.            That the delegated authority be given to the Director of Sustainable Communities, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth and Regeneration, to approve the remaining unallocated capital of £79,493 for 2009/10.

The report proposes a process for a reduction in the normal salting network if extenuating circumstances are experienced that make it impossible to continue to salt the publicised Priority 1 network.

1. That in exceptional circumstances, approval be given to reduce the standard Priority 1 salting network (47% of roads) to a reduced network of solely A and B roads (19%) to be named the Priority 1A network and that this new network be included within the Winter Maintenance Service Plan for 2009-10.

2. That Sections 4.4.3 and 4.4.4 of the Bedfordshire Highways Winter Service Plan be replaced with the wording detailed in Appendix C of the submitted report for the 2009 – 2010 winter season.

3. That Bedfordshire Highways, in conjunction with unitary press officers, develop an education campaign to explain how to get about in adverse weather conditions.

4. That Bedfordshire Highways, in conjunction with press officers, develop a process whereby the instigation of Priority 1A salting and snow clearance is advertised to road users across Central Bedfordshire.

5. That approval be given for Central Bedfordshire School Transport service to adopt a formal procedure for the winter of 2009 – 2010 using the valuable experiences gained during 2008 – 2009 winter season.

6. That agreement be given for Central Bedfordshire to complete the web development whereby educational establishments can access weather information, specific road conditions and the actions that Bedfordshire Highways are taking with respect to salting and snow clearing.

7. That during any new depot procurement process, approval be given to Central Bedfordshire Council undertaking a reassessment of salt stock levels taking into account the events experienced during recent winter periods.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor David McVicar, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities proposing a process for a reduction in the normal salting network if extenuating circumstances are experienced that make it impossible to continue to salt the publicised Priority 1 network. The purpose of the proposed change was to protect the Council, as far as possible, against any 3rd party litigation in the event that the Authority, in exceptional circumstances, is forced to reduce salting to a limited network of roads at any time in the future.

Councillor McVicar explained that the Winter Maintenance Service Plan sets out a formal process for undertaking the Council’s winter maintenance duty. The plan outlines the Council’s service standards and procedures in providing this service; it also serves as part of the Council’s evidence in the defence of any third party claims arising from incidents occurring on the road network during winter. 

The Executive was advised that the winter of 2008/09 showed that it was not possible at all times to keep the Priority 1 network free of ice and snow.  

Even with unlimited salt supplies, outside influences can dictate only undertaking salting and snow clearance on a more limited network of strategic roads.  Even then, extreme scenarios may dictate that keeping a limited network free of ice and snow is impossible. 

During the general discussion that followed the Portfolio Holder, whilst acknowledging that meeting differing expectations on winter salting was difficult, clarified that the Authority does not salt footpaths.  In terms of the cost of winter salting, the Portfolio Holder advised that this was incorporated in a fixed sum paid to Amey under the Council’s managing agent contract. In extreme cases where it is essential that snow ploughs have to be used, the additional cost would fall to the Council.  In addition, should there be a severe cold snap like the winter of 2008/09 that causes a significant number of additional pot holes, the unexpected expenditure would fall upon the Council.

Concluding the discussion it was noted that an education campaign was being developed to explain how to get about in adverse weather conditions.

Reason for decisions: So that a process is formally agreed by Executive in order to prevent, as far as possible, any 3rd party litigation in the event that the Authority is forced to reduce salting to a limited network of roads at any time in the future.

RESOLVED:

1.      That in exceptional circumstances, approval be given to reduce the standard Priority 1 salting network (47% of roads) to a reduced network of solely A and B roads (19%) to be named the Priority 1A network and that this new network be included within the Winter Maintenance Service Plan for 2009-10.

2.      That Sections 4.4.3 and 4.4.4 of the Bedfordshire Highways Winter Service Plan be replaced with the wording detailed in Appendix C of the submitted report for the 2009 – 2010 winter season.

3.      That Bedfordshire Highways, in conjunction with unitary press  ...  view the full minutes text for item 101.

The report proposes approval of the policy that sets out the principles within which the Planning Enforcement and Appeals Team will use the planning enforcement function of the Council.

That Planning Enforcement Policy set out at Appendix A to the submitted report be approved.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Tom Nicols, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Development seeking approval of a policy that sets out the principles within which the Planning Enforcement and Appeals Team will use the planning enforcement function of the Council.

The Portfolio Holder advised that the policy explains breaches of planning control and sets out the procedure for investigating these breaches, notifying parties and prioritising action. It also explains what enforcement action will be taken when all else fails and it is expedient to do so.

During the ensuing discussion members asked that the Policy be circulated to Parish and Town Councils.

Reason for decisions: To enable the Council to adopt a Planning Enforcement Policy which is line with recommendations in the Government’s “Enforcing Planning Control: Good Practice Guide for Local Authorities”, the Department of Communities and Local Government’s “Review of Planning Enforcement” in 2006, and advice given by the Planning Advisory Service’s  “Managing planning enforcement” in 2008.

RESOLVED:

That the Planning Enforcement Policy, as set out at Appendix A to the submitted report, be approved.

The report proposes that the Council comments on the scenarios for housing and economic growth.

1.                  That comments be made on the proposed Scenarios identified by EERA in the consultation on the East of England Review, as set out in paragraphs 11 - 25 of the submitted report, specifically:-

(a)               that the Council will only support a continuation of current Regional Plan growth rates with the provision of supporting infrastructure and a recognition of the policy split between the growth areas and other parts of Central Bedfordshire;

(b)               that the Council expresses its opposition to the siting of any regional scale settlement within Central Bedfordshire

(c)               that a Green Belt be designated to the South-East of Milton Keynes to protect nearby villages from coalescence with Milton Keynes.

2.                  That a joint response regarding the future of the Bedford/Marston Vale Growth Area be submitted with Bedford Borough Council.

3.                  That the detailed responses to the consultation questions, as set out in Appendix A of the submitted report, be forwarded to EERA.

4.                  That delegated authority be given to the Director of Sustainable Communities, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Development, to submit any further supporting evidence to EERA.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Tom Nicols, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Development seeking comments on the scenarios for housing and economic growth identified by EERA in the consultation on the East of England Review.

The submitted report considered the four scenarios and proposed response which related to the rate of housing and economic growth in Central Bedfordshire and Luton for the ten years from the end of the current East of England Plan period in 2021 to 2031 and where the growth might be located.

As part of its deliberations the Executive also received the comments and resolution of the Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee from its meeting on 27 October 2009 where the Committee supported the recommendations detailed in the officer's report but had stressed that all growth should be supported in a sustainable way.

Reason for decisions: So that the Council influences the content of the Review of the Regional Plan. 

RESOLVED:

1.            That comments be made on the proposed Scenarios identified by EERA in the consultation on the East of England Review, as set out in paragraphs 11 - 25 of the submitted report, specifically:-

(a)               that the Council will only support a continuation of current Regional Plan growth rates with the provision of supporting infrastructure and a recognition of the policy split between the growth areas and other parts of Central Bedfordshire;

(b)              that the Council expresses its opposition to the siting of any regional scale settlement within Central Bedfordshire

(c)               that a Green Belt be designated to the South-East of Milton Keynes to protect nearby villages from coalescence with Milton Keynes.

2.            That a joint response regarding the future of the Bedford/Marston Vale Growth Area be submitted with Bedford Borough Council.

3.            That the detailed responses to the consultation questions, as set out in Appendix A of the submitted report, be forwarded to EERA.

4.            That delegated authority be given to the Director of Sustainable Communities, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Development, to submit any further supporting evidence to EERA.

The report proposes consideration of this Development Plan Document (DPD) in advance of consideration by Council for formal adoption. This follows the recent Public Examination and Inspector's Report.

RECOMMENDED:

That the Core Strategy and Development Management Policies Development Plan Document, as set out in the submitted report, be approved.

Prior to consideration of the report, and in accordance with the Scheme of Public Participation, the Executive received observations in relation to the report from Mr Emery, Chairman of Potton Town Council who spoke about the principles that the Council had adopted when making choices about site allocations  and the process for consulting with residents.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Tom Nicols, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Development proposing the Core Strategy and Development Management Policies Development Plan Document (DPD).  The document provided guidance and an overall strategy for development. 

Councillor Nicols introducing his report advised that the DPD was a statutory document, part of the Local Development Framework (LDF) and would form part of the Development Plan.  Public Examination of the document had taken place during June and July 2009 following several periods of public consultation.  The outcome had been favourable to the Council with the Inspector determining the DPD to be “sound”.  The Executive was advised that it was not possible to make further amendments to the DPD, at this stage the Council could only agree to accept it or reject it altogether and start the process again from the beginning.

The Portfolio Holder concluded by commending both current and former legacy members and officers for the considerable amount of work that had gone into producing the strategy.

Reason for decision: To ensure the Council complies with the statutory requirement to produce a Development Plan through the production of the Local Development Framework (North).

RECOMMENDED:

That the Core Strategy and Development Management Policies Development Plan Document, as set out in the submitted report, be adopted.

The report proposes the adoption of the Planning Obligations Strategy Supplementary Planning Document alongside the adoption of the Core Strategy and Development Management Development Plan Document for Central Bedfordshire North.

1.      Where the results of the public consultation on the updates to the Planning Obligations Strategy are not currently relevant the comments be retained and used as part of the full review to be carried in the new year.

2.      That subject to the Council’s adoption of the Core Strategy and Development Management Development Plan Document on 19 November 2009, the Planning Obligations Strategy Supplementary Planning Document for Central Bedfordshire North be approved.

Prior to consideration of the report, and in accordance with the Scheme of Public Participation, the Executive received observations in relation to the report from Mr Emery, Chairman of Potton Town Council who spoke about the principles that the Council had adopted when making choices about site allocations  and the process for consulting with residents.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Tom Nicols, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Development proposing the adoption of the Planning Obligations Strategy Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) alongside the adoption of the Core Strategy and Development Management Development Plan Document for Central Bedfordshire North.

The Portfolio Holder advised members that in order for the Planning Obligations Strategy Supplementary Planning Document to be adopted alongside the adoption of the Core Strategy and Development Management Development Plan Document for Central Bedfordshire North, and enable development to continue to contribute towards new infrastructure requirements in the area, Executive’s approval of the amended document for adoption was required.  It was noted that work was to commence on a combined Planning Obligations Strategy for the whole of Central Bedfordshire in 2010 which would require Executive approval later in the new year.

Concluding the general discussion the Portfolio Holder paid tribute to officers and members of predecessor authorities for the amount of work that had gone into producing the document.

Reason for decisions: So that the Planning Obligations Strategy Supplementary Planning Document can be adopted alongside the adoption of the Core Strategy and Development Management Development Plan Document for Central Bedfordshire North, and enable development to continue to contribute towards new infrastructure requirements in the area.

RESOLVED:

1.            Where the results of the public consultation on the updates to the Planning Obligations Strategy are not currently relevant, the comments be retained and used as part of the full review to be carried out in the new year.

2.            That, subject to the Council’s adoption of the Core Strategy and Development Management Development Plan Document on 19 November 2009, the Planning Obligations Strategy Supplementary Planning Document for Central Bedfordshire North be approved.

The report proposes consideration ofthis draft Development Plan Document (DPD) in advance of consideration by Council for pre-submission public consultation and submission to the Secretary of State.

RECOMMENDED:

That, subject to the removal of Wrestlingworth (Site Ref H009), the sites, attached at Appendix 2 to the submitted report, be approved as the basis of the draft submission version of the Site Allocations Development Plan Document.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Tom Nicols, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Development seeking consideration of a list of Sites supported by the Sustainable Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee as the basis of a draft Site Allocations Development Plan Document (DPD), which would be considered by Council for pre-submission public consultation and submission to the Secretary of State.  An addendum to Appendix 2 of the report setting out the list of sites recommended by the Development Strategy Task Force was also tabled.  The column heading in the table titled “Detail of Proposal” had been re-worded as follows for clarity:-

‘Detail of Proposal (From the submissions of the site promoters.  Where a submission did not provide details, or where a site area has been reduced, the numbers have been re-calculated at 30 dwellings per hectare.  Employment figures reflect the requirements of the Core Strategy)’.

Prior to consideration of the report, and in accordance with the Scheme of Public Participation, the Executive received the following questions and statements in relation to the report:-

1.            Mr Alan Gunn – Objecting on behalf of residents to the inclusion of Site H090 in Wrestlingworth because of the proximity to important archaeological monuments; and that development would damage the character and appearance of the Wrestlingworth Conservation area.

2.            Mr David Bainbridge, Bidwells, representing the Trustees of Bedford Estate – Questioned why a site at Swaffield Close, Ampthill had not been included in the proposed site allocations list and because of its absence requesting that the recommended sites for Ampthill not be accepted.

3.            Mr David Bruce, Shillington – Objection on behalf of Shillington residents to the inclusion of Site H006 in Shillington for two reasons.  The Shillington Parish Plan states two sites, including Site H006, as examples of green field sites that residents do not want to lose.   The Task Force identified 400 as the target for numbers of housing sites it aimed to find but had recommended 50% more sites, residents considered that the removal of site H006 would not cause a shortfall.

4.            Mr John Garman, Wrestlingworth – Referred to a proposed development for 18 properties 65 yards from Site H090 in Wrestlingworth which had been presented to the Parish Council on Friday 6 November 2009.

A letter was then tabled from Clifton Improvement and Preservation Society objecting to the proportion of proposed allocation of houses in Clifton and asking that the Clifton allocations be reconsidered in the context of the total distribution of sites.

Responding to the questions and comments put to him Councillor Nicols drew attention to the process that had started in early 2007 by the former Mid Beds District Council to develop the Site Allocations DPD.  He explained that around 440 potential sites were subject to large scale, high quality public consultation during 2008; the results of the consultation were used as part of the process of defining the final list of potential sites. The Portfolio Holder also referred to the significant member input throughout the process,  ...  view the full minutes text for item 106.

The report proposes that Central Bedfordshire Council provide capital funding to Aragon Housing Association, up to £175k, to undertake the conversion of an existing sheltered scheme to Extra Care Housing.

That approval be given to funding of up to £175k, from the approved Affordable housing capital budget, to Aragon Housing Association to fund the conversion of Wingfield Court, Ampthill to Extra Care type housing.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Tom Nicols, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Development proposing that Central Bedfordshire Council provide capital funding to Aragon Housing Association (HA) to undertake the conversion of an existing sheltered scheme to Extra Care Housing.

The Portfolio Holder advised members that the proposal was in line with the strategic direction outlined in both the former Bedfordshire County Council’s, ‘Older Persons Strategy and the ‘Supporting People Strategy’ both broadly supported by the former District councils. It was noted that the approved capital budget included funding to support affordable housing developments. The criteria for allocating funds from this budget was developed in essence to focus support on schemes meeting Council priorities and where other external funding was unlikely to be achieved.

Reason for decisions: Aragon HA is unable to access other public funding to enable this project to proceed. The proposal is very much in line with the Council’s objectives.

RESOLVED:

That approval be given to funding of up to £175k, from the approved Affordable housing capital budget, to Aragon Housing Association to fund the conversion of Wingfield Court, Ampthill to Extra Care type housing.

This report proposes that the Executive endorse the annual report (2008/09) of the Adult Safeguarding Board for Bedfordshire covering the last twelve months of the County Council’s operation and the period leading up to creation of two new unitary local authorities.

1. That the Safeguarding of Vulnerable Adults Annual Report for 2008/09, as set out at Appendix A to the submitted report, be noted.

2. That the priorities and improvement plan that have been put in place, as set out on pages 14-16 of the submitted report, be agreed.

3. That elected member commitment to safeguarding including attendance at the safeguarding training programme be endorsed.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Mrs Carole Hegley, Portfolio Holder for Social Care and Health seeking endorsement of the annual report (2008/09) of the Adult Safeguarding Board for Bedfordshire covering the last twelve months of the County Council’s operation and the period leading up to creation of two new unitary local authorities.

Members were advised that the draft report has been considered and agreed by the Safeguarding Adults Partnership Board following widespread contributions from partner agencies, including Central Bedfordshire Council, NHS Bedfordshire, Bedfordshire and Luton Mental Health Trust, Bedfordshire Police, Bedford Hospital Acute Trust and the Care Quality Commission.  It was noted that the report was being presented to the senior executive forums of each partner organisation.

Reason for decisions: In May 2008, the Commission for Social Care Inspection judged safeguarding services in Bedfordshire to be adequate with uncertain prospects for improvement.  Having scrutinised the arrangements the Council inherited, officers believe this to have been a generous judgement and the Council should not underestimate the scale of the task in improving the safeguarding arrangements from the current position to one of excellence.  It is important, therefore that the Safeguarding Adults Partnership Board is supported with its improvement plan which will ensure that the Council meets its statutory duty to safeguard vulnerable adults and older people.

RESOLVED:

1.            That the Safeguarding of Vulnerable Adults Annual Report for 2008/09, as set out at Appendix A to the submitted report, be noted.

2.            That the priorities and improvement plan that have been put in place, as set out on pages 14-16 of the submitted report, be agreed.

3.            That elected member commitment to safeguarding including attendance at the safeguarding training programme be endorsed.

The report provides a summary of the options proposed in the Green Paper for adult social care ‘Shaping the Future of Care Together’.  The Green Paper highlights the challenges faced by the current care system and the need for radical reform, to develop a National care service that is fair, simple and affordable for everyone.

1.  That Central Bedfordshire welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the public debate on the future  funding of care and support and would endorse the need for more detailed and financially illustrated options to demonstrate fairness, simplicity and affordability  for local people.  

2.  That the response to  the  Government on the Green Paper  of local    people involved in consultations held in Central Bedfordshire be supported.

3.  That Central Bedfordshire would strongly recommend  further debate about the roles of local and central government in delivering the requirements of the Green Paper  before a White Paper is published. 

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Mrs Carole Hegley, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health setting out a summary of the options proposed in the Green Paper for adult social care ‘Shaping the Future of Care Together’ together with revised recommendations circulated with the Chairman’s briefing note setting out a proposed response to the Green Paper. 

The Portfolio Holder introducing her report explained that The Green Paper highlighted the challenges faced by the current care system and the need for radical reform in order to develop a National care service that is fair, simple and affordable for everyone. It was noted that The Green Paper also sets out a number of questions for consultation which would inform the White Paper to be published in 2010.  It was noted that Central Bedfordshire Council and its partners carried out local consultation events to get the views of local stakeholders and it was proposed that the findings form the basis of the Council’s response to the Green Paper. 

Reason for decisions:So that Executive considers the fundamental reform of care and support proposed in the Green Paper, which will have far reaching implications for the way in which care and support is both provided and funded in the future and approve the proposed response to the Green Paper following local consultation events.

RESOLVED:

1.      That Central Bedfordshire welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the public debate on the future  funding of care and support and would endorse the need for more detailed and financially illustrated options to demonstrate fairness, simplicity and affordability  for local people.  

2.      That the response to  the  Government on the Green Paper  of local    people involved in consultations held in Central Bedfordshire be supported.

3.      That Central Bedfordshire would strongly recommend  further debate about the roles of local and central government in delivering the requirements of the Green Paper  before a White Paper is published. 

The report proposes the adoption of the attached Corporate Commissioning and Procurement Strategy 2009/10.

As part of its deliberations the Executive also considered the comments and recommendations from the Corporate Resources Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting held on 2 November. The recommendations were accepted in their entirety except the third bullet point.  The Executive agreed that monitoring implementation of the Strategy should be incorporated as part of the overall quarterly performance report to the Committee,not the CBMT management report.

RESOLVED:

1. That the Corporate Commissioning and Procurement Strategy, attached to the submitted report, be approved.

2. That the Portfolio Holder for Corporate Resources, in liaison with the Director of Corporate Resources, be authorised to review the Corporate Commissioning and Procurement Strategy annually.

3. That the recommendations of the Corporate Resources Overview and Scrutiny Committee from its meeting held on 2 November, as set out at Appendix B in the Chairman’s Briefing Note, be accepted except the third bullet point being amended to:

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Maurice Jones, Portfolio Holder for Corporate Resources proposing a Corporate Commissioning and Procurement Strategy for 2009/10.

The Portfolio Holder explained that the Strategy sets out broadly what is required of the Council in order to achieve best value in all of its commissioning and procurement activity.  It would also serve as a main platform for the delivery of the Council’s Strategic Plan.

In response to comments the Portfolio Holder assured members that the  strategy would be disseminated throughout the organisation. A Commissioning and Procurement Steering Group would be set up which would report progress quarterly to Central Bedfordshire Management Team and annually to the Executive.

As part of its deliberations the Executive also considered the comments and recommendations from the Corporate Resources Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting held on 2 November 2009. The Portfolio Holder accepted the recommendations in their entirety, except the third bullet point.  The Executive agreed that monitoring implementation of the Strategy should be incorporated as part of the overall quarterly performance report to the Committee,not the CBMT management report.

Reason for decisions: So that the Council has an agreed Corporate Commissioning and Procurement Strategy as recommended in the National Procurement Strategy.

RESOLVED:

1. That the Corporate Commissioning and Procurement Strategy, attached to the submitted report, be approved.

2. That the Portfolio Holder for Corporate Resources, in liaison with the Director of Corporate Resources, be authorised to review the Corporate Commissioning and Procurement Strategy annually.

3. That the recommendations of the Corporate Resources Overview and Scrutiny Committee from its meeting held on 2 November, as set out at Appendix B in the Chairman’s Briefing Note, be accepted except the third bullet point being amended to:

The report provides information on the budget position as at 30 September 2009 to enable decisions to be taken on resource allocation and service delivery

1. That the report setting out the latest budget projections for the year and also that further work is ongoing to establish the likely outturn for 2009/10 be noted.

2. That the virements, as set out in paragraphs 17 and 18 of the submitted report, be approved.

3. That the additional action plans savings of £0.025m, as detailed in the submitted report, be approved.

4. That Directors be instructed to identify further actions to address the forecast overspend.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Maurice Jones, Portfolio Holder for Corporate Resource setting out the budget position as at 30 September 2009 to enable decisions to be taken on resource allocation and service delivery. The report set out details of the budget projections for the year end whilst noting that further work was ongoing to establish the likely outturn for 2009/10 and identified additional action plans savings of £0.025m.

Reason for decisions: To report to members that robust budget monitoring has been undertaken since day one to ensure spend was delivered to budget and that resources have been allocated appropriately.

RESOLVED:

1.            That the report setting out the latest budget projections for the year and also that further work is ongoing to establish the likely outturn for 2009/10 be noted.

2.            That the virements, as set out in paragraphs 17 and 18 of the submitted report, be approved.

3.            That the additional action plans savings of £0.025m, as detailed in the submitted report, be approved.

4.            That Directors be instructed to identify further actions to address the forecast overspend.

Following the work of the Fees and Charges Member Working Group, this report sets out the Fees and Charges recommended to apply from 1^st April 2010.

That the Fees and Charges schedule for 2010/11, outlined in Annex 2 of the report circulated with the Chairman’s Briefing Note and page numbered 87 – 134, be approved subject to the Fees and Charges Policy being approved by Council on 19 November 2009.

The Executive considered a report circulated with the Chairman’s briefing note from Councillor Maurice Jones, Portfolio Holder for Corporate Resources proposing a schedule of Fees and Charges to apply from 1 April 2010.

The Portfolio Holder reminded the Executive that at its last meeting held on 13 October 2009 it had recommended a Fees and Charges Policy for approval by Council (minute E/09/86 refers).  Members noted that due to the Committee timing process, the proposed Fees and Charges schedule being considered for 2010/11 could only be agreed subject to Council approving the Fees and Charges Policy at its meeting of 19 November 2009. 

The Executive was advised that the proposed Fees and Charges were all discretionary and had been compiled following extensive examination and discussion with Service Managers by the Fees and Charges Member Working Group. 

Reason for decisions:  To enable the Council to publish its Fees and Charges for 2010/11 as soon as possible.

RESOLVED:

That the Fees and Charges schedule for 2010/11, outlined in Annex 2 of the report circulated with the Chairman’s Briefing Note and page numbered 87 – 134, be approved subject to the Fees and Charges Policy being approved by Council on 19 November 2009.

The report presents a review of the 2009/10 Capital Programme and proposes a revised 2009/10 Capital Programme to the Executive for recommendation to the Council for approval.

RECOMMENDED:

1.                  That the Revised General Fund Capital Programme for 2009/10, attached as Appendices B1 to B5 to the submitted report together with a tabled revised Appendix B2, be approved.

2.                  That the Revised Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme for 2009/10, attached at Appendix E to the submitted report, be approved.

3.                  That the total net capital spend, limited to £17.5M, be split equally between borrowings and the use of capital receipts.

RESOLVED:

That progression of the following projects for which Business Cases and/or Project Initiation Documents, attached as Appendices F1 to F3 to the submitted report, be approved:

-Biggleswade Town Centre Masterplan

-Integrated Environmental Improvement Project

-Performance Management System

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Maurice Jones, Portfolio Holder for Corporate Resources setting out the results of a review of the 2009/10 Capital Programme and a revised 2009/10 Capital Programme, together with revised appendices A, B2 and 7 which were tabled at the meeting. The report also sought approval for three capital schemes to proceed.

Introducing the report Councillor Jones explained that the review of the 2009/10 Capital Programme and of the schemes identified as slippage from 2008/09, reported to the Executive in July 2009 (minute E/09/25 refers),  had been carried out to ensure that the Council has a robust and deliverable capital programme for the remainder of 2009/10.  

The Executive was advised that as a result of the review and the combined measures outlined in the report, overall, the 2009/10 outturn position would remain broadly within parameters of affordability. Councillor Jones advised that the capital schemes and projects that had been revised were not being abandoned and would be carried forward.  Members were also advised that there could still be further movement and as such the revised capital programme could still be subject to change.  Councillor Jones concluded by proposing that the total net capital spend should be limited to £17.5M and be split equally between borrowings and the use of capital receipts

Reason for decisions: To ensure that the Council has a robust and deliverable Capital Programme for the remainder of 2009/10.  To obtain approval for the progression of schemes slipped from 2008/09. To obtain approval for the progression of a number of specific schemes in the Capital Programme.

RECOMMENDED:

1.                  That the Revised General Fund Capital Programme for 2009/10, attached as Appendices B1 to B5 to the submitted report together with a tabled revised Appendix B2, be approved.

2.                  That the Revised Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme for 2009/10, attached at Appendix E to the submitted report, be approved.

3.                  That the total net capital spend, limited to £17.5M, be split equally between borrowings and the use of capital receipts.

RESOLVED:

That progression of the following projects for which Business Cases and/or Project Initiation Documents, attached as Appendices F1 to F3 to the submitted report, be approved:

-Biggleswade Town Centre Masterplan

-Integrated Environmental Improvement Project

-Performance Management System

The Report advises the Executive of the actions being taken by the Council in response to Lord Laming’s Report March 2009 following the death of baby Peter.

That progress to date in responding to Lord Laming’s recommendations, as detailed in the submitted report, be noted and the Central Bedfordshire Action Plan endorsed.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Mrs Anita Lewis, Portfolio Holder for Children Families and Learning advising members of the actions being taken by the Council in response to Lord Laming’s Report March 2009 following the death of baby Peter. The report also sought endorsement of the Central Bedfordshire Action Plan that had been put in place for safeguarding children in Central Bedfordshire.

The Portfolio Holder informed members that Central Bedfordshire Council had responded in a timely way to the recommendations made by Lord Laming. A detailed action plan had been put in place describing how it is acting, with its partners, to implement those recommendations. The action plan also set out how local safeguarding performance was being monitored through the Council’s management teams and through appropriate multi agency partnerships.

Reason for decision: To ensure there is appropriate Executive oversight of the Council’s response to Lord Laming’s recommendations, ensure the Council is compliant with national guidance, best practice recommendations and current and emerging legislation and guidance and to ensure that vulnerable children and their families and in particular those in need of protection, are safe and protected as a result of the services delivered within Central Bedfordshire.

RESOLVED:

That progress to date in responding to Lord Laming’s recommendations, as detailed in the submitted report, be noted and the Central Bedfordshire Action Plan endorsed.

The report requests that Executive approve the legacy project to replace Roecroft Lower School as a 300 place school on a new site at an estimated cost of £5.8m and approves a variation of the original implementation date from 1 September 2010 to 1 September 2011.

1.                  That approval be given to the project to replace Roecroft Lower School as a 300 place Lower School on a new site in Stotfold at an estimated cost of £5.8m.

2.                  That a modification to the original implementation date from 1 September 2010 to 1 September 2011 be approved.

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Mrs Anita Lewis, Portfolio Holder for Children, Families and Learning seeking approval to a legacy project to replace Roecroft Lower School as a 300 place school on a new site at an estimated cost of £5.8m. Approval was also sought to a variation of the original implementation date from 1 September 2010 to 1 September 2011 to reflect the revised programme for the project and to satisfy the legal duty to implement the proposals.

The Portfolio Holder reported that approval was required to enable the enlargement and relocation of Roecroft Lower School to progress to completion ready for occupation of the new school buildings in September 2011.  In addition to providing an increase in the number of Lower school places the report detailed the additional benefits that would be achieved by the project.

Reason for decisions: To ensure that the Council is able to meet its Statutory Obligations to secure sufficient Lower School places in the Stotfold area; to comply with the Legal requirement to seek a modification to the original implementation date set out in the previously approved Statutory Notices.

RESOLVED:

1.                  That approval be given to the project to replace Roecroft Lower School as a 300 place Lower School on a new site in Stotfold at an estimated cost of £5.8m.

2.                  That a modification to the original implementation date from 1 September 2010 to 1 September 2011 be approved.

The report proposes approval of Project Initiation Documents for schemes in the 2009/10 Capital Programme.

That approval be given to the Project Initiation Documents for the Countryside Access Service’s Capital Programme for 2009/10 (as part of the revised 2009/10 Capital Programme being submitted to Council on 19 November  for approval), namely:

• Appendix A – Rights of Way and Countryside and Heritage Sites – structural improvements to bridges, surfacing and structures (£475k)
• Appendix B – Outdoor Access and Greenspace improvement projects (£224k)
• Appendix C – Heritage Lottery Fund – the Swiss Garden (£50k).

The Executive considered a report from Councillor Stephen Male, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Skills seeking approval of Project Initiation Documents for 3 schemes related to the work of the Countryside Access Service in the 2009/10 Capital Programme to proceed.

During consideration of the report comments were made that the proposed projects contained some inherited assets from the former County Council.  As the disaggregation of assets between Central Bedfordshire and Bedford Borough had yet to be settled a member questioned whether the Authority would be liable for the proposed schemes in the event that the asset was transferred to the Borough Council. It was clarified that the assets at this stage were jointly owned by Central Bedfordshire and Bedford Borough, should an asset transfer to the Borough liability would transfer too.

Reason for decision: To obtain approval for the progression of a number of specific schemes in the Capital Programme for 2009/10.

RESOLVED:

That approval be given to the three Project Initiation Documents for the Countryside Access Service’s Capital Programme for 2009/10 (as part of the revised 2009/10 Capital Programme being submitted to Council on 19 November  for approval), as follows:

• Rights of Way and Countryside and Heritage Sites – structural improvements to bridges, surfacing and structures (£475k)
• Outdoor Access and Greenspace improvement projects (£224k)
• Heritage Lottery Fund – the Swiss Garden (£50k).

To receive the Forward Plan for the period 1 December 2009 to 30 November 2010.  (to follow)

The Forward Plan for the period 1 December 2009 to 31 December 2010 was received.