CABINET
MINUTES of a meeting held on 13th December, 2006.
Present: Councillor Ms. M.E. Alexander (Chairman);
Councillors R.F. Curtis, S.C. Egan, C.P. Franks, N.J. Gibbs, N.
Moore, Mrs. M.R. Wilkinson and C.J. Williams.
Also present: Councillors N.P. Hodges, A.J. Readman and
A.J. Williams
C2795
APOLOGY FOR ABSENCE -
An apology for absence was received from Councillor G. John due
to illness.
C2796
COUNCILLOR G. JOHN -
Cabinet requested that best wishes for a speedy recovery be
conveyed.
C2797
WELCOME -
The Chairman welcomed Members to the meeting and announced the
Cabinet Membership with portfolios as follows:
Margaret Alexander - Leader; Policy and Regeneration
Neil Moore - Deputy Leader; Finance, ICT and Property
Rob Curtis - Visible and Building Services
Nigel Gibbs - Education and Training
Stuart Egan - Social and Care Services
Margaret Wilkinson - Housing and Community Safety
Gwyn John - Leisure and Tourism
Chris Williams - Planning and Transportation
Chris Franks - Legal and Public Protection
Vacant - Human Resources.
C2798
MINUTES -
RESOLVED - T H A T the minutes of the meeting held on
29th November, 2006 be noted.
C2799
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST -
No declarations of interest were received.
C2800
REPORT OF HOUSING SUB-COMMITTEE - 26TH OCTOBER, 2006
(REFERENCE FROM SCRUTINY COMMITTEE (COMMUNITY WELLBEING AND SAFETY)
- 27TH NOVEMBER, 2006) -
The Scrutiny Committee (Community Wellbeing and Safety) had
received a report from the Housing Sub-Committee on 26th
October, 2006 and after due consideration made the following
recommendations to Cabinet:
RECOMMENDED - T H A T the recommendations contained in the
report be endorsed and the following be referred to Cabinet:
(d) Vale of Glamorgan
Private Sector House Conditions Survey -
(1) T H A T Cabinet be
requested to support a bid for capital funding to be submitted in
the sum of £80,000 for the 2007 - 2008 financial year to fund a
full Vale of Glamorgan Private Sector House Conditions Survey in
2007.
(2) T H A T notwithstanding
the above recommendation, officers investigate the possibility of
joint working with other local authorities regarding the production
of the Private Sector House Condition Survey.
(e) Section 180 Housing Act
1996 Voluntary Sector Funding Proposals -
(1) T H A T Cabinet be
requested to agree the following Section 180 funding
allocations
Home Access Trust - Accommodation Funding and Bond Board
Services. Money to be used to part fund salary of the Bond
Officer - £5,000.
Llamau Housing - JIGSO - Advice and assistance to single people
aged 16 plus who are homeless/threatened with homelessness to
include bond services, landlord/tenant support and generalist
housing advice - £12,000.
Vale Furniture Grant Project - to provide grants to homeless people
who cannot fund the purchase of furniture - £6,000.
(2) T H A T the Director of
Community Services in consultation with the Cabinet Member for
Housing and Community Safety be authorised to reallocate the
balance of £17,000 to fund the Rough Sleeper Count and any balance
of the fund carried forward to 2007/08 unless a suitable project
could be identified in the interim.
(k) Chartered
Institute of Housing Conference and Exhibition 19th -
21st June, 2007 -
T H A T Cabinet be recommended to consider nominating a member
of the Housing Sub-Committee to attend the Institute of Housing
Conference and Exhibition to be held on 19th -
21st June, 2007."
Cabinet, having considered the above
RESOLVED -
(1) T H A T the contents of
the report be noted.
(2) T H A T all references
to bids be referred to the Budget Working Group.
(3) T H A T approval be
granted for the Housing Sub-Committee to nominate a member of the
Sub-Committee to attend the Institute of Housing Conference and
Exhibition along with the Cabinet Member for Housing and Community
Safety to be held between 19th and 21st June,
2007.
C2801
CARDIFF BAY ADVISORY COMMITTEE - 15TH NOVEMBER, 2006
-
RESOLVED - T H A T the following report be noted:
Present:
|
Mr. J.P. Barry
|
Royal Yacht Association and Cardiff Yacht Club
|
|
Mr. T. Davies
|
Royal Yacht Association and Cardiff Bay Yacht Club
|
|
Mr. J. Harrison
|
Environment Agency
|
|
Councillor N. Howells
|
Cardiff County Council
|
|
Councillor H. Jarvie
|
Vale of Glamorgan Council
|
|
Mr. S. Jones
|
Penarth Quay Marina
|
Also present:
|
Mr. S. Howell
|
Cardiff Harbour Authority
|
|
Mrs. K. Bowen
|
Vale of Glamorgan Council.
|
1.
Appointment of Chairman -
In the absence of Councillor N.J. Gibbs (Chairman), and Mrs.
C. Dimond, Vice-Chairman, Mr. J. Harrison (Environment Agency) was
appointed Chairman for the duration of the meeting.
2.
Apologies for absence -
These were received from Councillor N.J. Gibbs (Chairman);
Mrs. C. Dimond (Vice-Chairman); Captain T. Auld and Mr. A.
Parker.
3.
Minutes -
RESOLVED - T H A T the minutes of the meeting held on
13th September, 2006 be approved as an accurate record,
subject to it being noted that under minute no. 7. resolution (a) -
recommendation R9 be deleted as this was not a matter for the
Cardiff Bay Advisory Committee.
4.
Matters arising -
Minute No. 6. Penarth Headland Link - Resolution
(2)
Members of the Committee had been advised of the Vale of
Glamorgan Council's Cabinet decision in respect of the matter in a
letter to all members on 10th October, 2006.
Minute No. 7. - Resolution (2)
Members of the Cardiff Bay Advisory Committee had been
informed of the decision of the Executive Committee of Cardiff via
a letter to all Members on 10th October, 2006.
5.
Cardiff Harbour Authority -
A progress report was received from Mr. Simon Howell in
respect of the following:
Barrage
Repairs to the Barrage embankment had been completed week
ending 10th November, 2006. The Crest Walkway Link
had also been completed and a wind turbine established which it was
reported was, the first in the Cardiff Bay area to be
erected. The draft bye-laws that had previously been
circulated for consultation were being amended to take into account
the Welsh Assembly Government's comments with the final draft to be
forwarded to WAG for approval of the amendments and then a further
consultation process to take place with the appropriate
consultees. It was envisaged that the consultation would take
place prior to Christmas and any comments would be presented to WAG
for final approval with the intention that the bye-laws came into
force by the summer of 2007.
Environment
There had been no water quality issues since the last
meeting of the Advisory Committee, oxygen levels in the Bay had
remained well above the statutory minimum level and no algae blooms
had been experienced. However, following the recent weather
conditions, large volumes of debris had been collected over the
past two months from within the Bay. The booms that collected the
debris had also been improved during the year making the collection
task more efficient.
General
It was noted that the contract to replace the surfacing of
the Roald Dhal Plasse would be completed within the next two
weeks. In respect of the proposed Olympic Standard Canoe
Slalom Centre planned to be constructed on the International Sports
Village, tenders were due to be returned in January 2007 with a
start date on site for May 2007. A Walk of Fame project had
been launched week commencing 6th November, 2006 that
would consist of slabs of Welsh slate engraved with the names and
hand prints of those selected by the public to receive the
honour. An Academy would be established to select the long
list of 100 persons that the public would vote on to determine who
the first 30 persons would be.
Negotiations with the Welsh Assembly Government on the
revisions to the Cardiff Harbour Authority Agreement had been
progressed with the intention that the consultation negotiations
would be completed by 28th February, 2007. Both
parties were content for the Harbour Authority to remain with the
Council indefinitely with a three year rolling Business Plan
providing the ongoing detailed plans.
The Cardiff Bay Advisory Committee were requested to
consider any issues that any member thought should be included in
the plan and these could be submitted to Mr Howell at the Cardiff
Harbour Authority.
At the last meeting of the Advisory Committee the Wave
Height monitoring situation had been discussed and Mr. Howell
advised that both Yacht Clubs had been engaged in separate meetings
with the Cardiff Harbour Authority on the matter.
RESOLVED - T H A T the progress report be noted.
6.
Environment Agency Issues -
An update report was received from Mr. John Harrison in
respect of the following:
Fish Pass
The Environment Agency was considering reviewing the
existing fishery migration funding arrangements with CHA to promote
a more sustainable and natural regeneration within the rivers Taff
and Ely. It was the Environment Agency's aim to work with the
Cardiff Harbour Authority to establish a more sustainable solution
than to only re-stock the Bay with migratory fish. It was
further highlighted that the River Taff had more physical
obstructions than any other river in Wales. It was
suggested that a Fisheries Technical Officer from the Environment
Agency be invited to a future meeting of the Committee to advise on
technical matters once the revised measures had been agreed with
the CHA. The development of a natural solution would also
demonstrate partnership working with the Local Authorities along
the length of the Taff / Ely, Cardiff Harbour Authority and the
Environment Agency.
Illegal Fishing
It was reported that two people had been arrested for
illegal fishing of 4 female salmon who were about to spawn.
If they had been allowed to spawn then it is estimated that over
20,000 eggs would have been released which in turn would have
produced 600-800 fish capable of migrating.
Zebra Mussels
In view of the increasing number of Zebra Mussels affecting
the Bay area, it was suggested that increased efforts be made by
all agencies to consider how best to respond to the issue and that
all should be extremely vigilant. A number of other
authorities had been experiencing problems of this nature, in
particular, the Thames Valley and all agencies were continually
striving to establish appropriate measures of dealing with the
matter.
Mr Harrison also reported that the Environment Agency was
considering their enforcement position following a recent major
pollution incident in the Taff Fechan area where 23,000 fish had
been killed.
RESOLVED - T H A T the report be noted and Mr. Harrison be
thanked for the information provided.
7.
Penarth Quay - Request for Display of
Times-
A member of the public who had recently visited the Penarth
area had e-mailed the Clerk in respect of parking arrangements at
Penarth Quay. The e-mail stated that the problem that had
been encountered was that the payment for parking had to be made
before leaving the car, i.e. via Pay and Display the penalty for
exceeding the paid amount was £40. The member of the public
was reluctant to pay in this manner as there was no information
available on the departure and return times of the Water Bus Taxi
for the duration of the trip to Cardiff Bay.
Mr. Simon Howell reported by advising the Committee that the
capital costs for providing the Pay and Display system, whereby
parking was paid as one leaves the area, would be a capital funding
cost which for which no funding was available, plus the fact that a
person would have to be on hand if anyone lost their ticket or
other issues materialised. He therefore advised that it was
his intention to arrange for a display sign to be placed on the
board by the ticket machine advising car owners "intending to take
boat trips from the Barrage Quay to check return times prior to
obtaining a car parking ticket. Telephone numbers of
operators of water bus taxis and cruises would also be
displayed.
Members of the Committee accepted Mr. Howell's proposal in
respect of the matter and
RESOLVED - T H A T the Clerk write to the member of the
public advising of the intentions of the Cardiff Harbour Authority
to deal with the matter.
8.
Cardiff Bay Advisory Committee and Terms of Reference
-
At the last meeting of the Advisory Committee, a report had
been received from the Economic Scrutiny Committee of Cardiff
County Council into the future of the Cardiff Harbour
Authority. Cardiff County Council's Executive had on
14th September, 2006, subsequently agreed the
recommendations of the Scrutiny Committee of which two of the
recommendations in the report referred to the Cardiff Bay Advisory
Committee being that
Cardiff Harbour Authority and Cardiff Bay Advisory Committee
jointly undertake a review of the membership of Cardiff Bay
Advisory Committee in order that they can more appropriately
represent the stakeholders of the Bay and provide a useful forum
for communication and consultation;
Cardiff Harbour Authority and Cardiff Bay Advisory Committee
jointly consider the scope for the Cardiff Bay Advisory Committee
to play a wider role in relation to partnership working and
consultation.
In order to commence the above process, it was proposed that
discussions take place between the Clerk of the Advisory Committee
and Mr. S. Howell, Cardiff Harbour Authority with a view
to
re-visiting the rationale behind the existing membership and
terms of reference of the Advisory Committee;
consider / confirm whether all current individuals /
organisations remain relevant to the Advisory Committee;
consider whether there are any other relevant organisations /
individuals who could be considered for inclusion on the Advisory
Committee;
consider whether general "expressions of interest" should be
invited in order to ascertain whether there was any interest in
joining the Advisory Committee which might not have been addressed
as part of the exercise outlined above and careful consideration
would need to be given to how general expressions of interest would
be dealt with.
RESOLVED - T H A T the Clerk to the Advisory Committee
report back to a future meeting of the Committee with proposals on
the membership and terms of reference of the Cardiff Bay Advisory
Committee in respect of the recommendations made by the
Scrutiny Committee of Cardiff County Council as outlined
above.
9.
Any other business -
Boatyard facilities in Cardiff Bay
Mr. S. Jones, Marina Manager of Penarth Quays Marina,
highlighted the following.
Within Cardiff Bay there were four boatyards which were
located at Penarth Quays Marina, Cambrian Marine, Cardiff Bay Yacht
Club and Cardiff Yacht Club. The club facilities served club
members and were not available to the general public. The
Marina Yard was open to all Bay users but due to shore-side
development of the marina area, the boatyard was small and could
only accommodate some 15 vessels at a maximum that required to be
worked on at any time. The Cambrian Marine Yard was larger in
size at 1.25 acres but there was uncertainty over the future of the
yard as it may be lost to redevelopment in the near future.
The current boat numbers within Cardiff Bay was approximately 1,100
and previous predictions had showed the future capacity of the Bay
was likely to be in the order of 2,000.
Mr. Jones reported that at present, the boatyards within the
Bay were barely able to meet the demands from the current boat
population and as such, a number of vessels (particularly the
larger ones), had been having work undertaken at Portishead Head
Marina where there was more space. He wished the Committee to
be aware of the situation and that the lack of facilities would be
more than likely limit future growth of the boating population and
without space in his opinion, the development of marine related
industry within the Bay would be prevented. It was noted that
the Cardiff Harbour Authority had started to consider alternative
sites for new facilities but that the availability of suitable
sites was limited. Simon Howell referred to the fact that in
his opinion, the matter would have to be dealt with in the three
year Business Plan of the Cardiff Harbour Authority in any event,
and it was
RESOLVED - T H A T consideration of the matter be identified
for the three year Business Plan and Cardiff Bay Advisory Committee
note the concerns for future discussion.
C2802
CORPORATE PARENTING PANEL - 9TH OCTOBER, 2006
-
RESOLVED - T H A T the following report be noted:
Present:
Councillor Tony Hampton
Tony Young, Head of Children & Family Services
Councillor Gordon Kemp (Chair)
Councillor Margaret Alexander
Councillor Janice Birch
Sheila Kelly, Head of Inclusion & Access
Rhiannon Jones, Admin
Guest
Speakers: Irene Banfield,
Operational Manager Partnership & Service Development
Mair Williams. NCH
Joe Frearson, Operational Manager, Fostering, Adoption,
Residential & Leaving Care
Apologies:
Amanda Green, Children's Complaints Officer
Councillor Kemp was welcomed to his first meeting as Chair
of the group.
1. Minutes
and Matters Arising from 02 05 06
1.1
Accuracy: The minutes were approved as a
true record.
1.2 Matters
Arising: There are no matters arising
2. Report
Back from Cabinet (Cabinet Members to update Panel)
Western Vale Integrated Children's Centre
(WVICC)– The WVICC are looking for 1 further
member to serve on the Management Board. Irene
Banfield will clarify who is dealing with this
issue. Councillor Hampton informed the group that he
has contacted Llantwit Major, Cowbridge, St Athan and Rhoose to see
if anyone is interested.
Action
Mark Petherick to follow-up this issue
2.2 Lead
Director and Member for the Local Safeguarding Children
Board – noted that the Lead Member is Councillor Gordon
Kemp and the Lead Director is Bryan Jeffreys (Director of Learning
& Development). Noted that there are still issues to be
"ironed out". Tony Young informed the group that a meeting is
being held on 10.10.06 with James Cawley/Tony Young/Bryan Jeffreys
to address the issues regarding how safeguarding is appropriately
managed and the need to be clear regarding communication.
2.3 Residential Unit – A
residential unit (Wentworth House) has been set up in Penarth with
Castle Care. The aim of the unit is to bring children who are
placed in external placements back to the Vale. The unit
provides a good standard of accommodation, it is working well and
they are very committed. There are a total of 4 placements at
the unit and there are currently 3 young people residing at the
unit. The placements are short to medium term to enable to
assist young people in preparing for independence.
2.3.1 A meeting was held with the provider and
Sheila Kelly on 09 10 06 regarding education provision within the
establishment at no extra cost. The purpose is to enable
children who are excluded and accommodated to have a form of
education with the aim of returning to mainstream
school.
2.3.2 Savings– Tony Young informed the group
that by the end of this financial year the Vale should have a net
saving on the total cost. Noted that it will be significantly
lower than the current average market rate.
Serious Case Review – Cabinet report was referred to Scrutiny
on 02 10 06. The report has been considered by the Vale of
Glamorgan ACPC who has produced, developed and implemented an
Action Plan in order to address the 12 recommendations and sub
recommendations.
Budget – noted that a report went to Cabinet on 20 09
06.
Children First – A report went to Cabinet on 06 09 06.
Noted that this report was not called in to Scrutiny.
3. Issues
from Scrutiny Committees (Scrutiny Members to update
Panel)
3.1 Councillor Birch
informed the group that Scrutiny is gathering evidence from the
Voluntary Bodies and the Health Service and their response
regarding the budget action plan which will be going to Scrutiny on
23 10 06.
3.2 Councillor Alexander
informed the group of James Cawley's critical comments regarding
Scrutiny's attitude in terms of the overspend in Children's
Services and that Scrutiny should be more challenging.
Councillor Alexander felt that Scrutiny had been exhaustive in its
Scrutiny of out of county placements. When asked to comment,
Tony Young added that he was not aware of this advice from the
Director.
4. NCH vale
of Glamorgan Short Breaks Ty Robin Goch – Inspection Report – Irene
Banfield & Mair Williams
4.1 The Inspection
report was previously circulated.
4.2 Brief
Background – A number of years service was provided by
South Glamorgan and then subsequently by the Vale of Glamorgan for
residential short breaks at Barry Hostel. The CSIW had
introduced regulations for standards for care homes. Barry
Hostel was assessed against these regulations and none of the
standards were fully met. A decision was made to look for
another provider and to develop a new build.
4.3 The Vale of
Glamorgan tendered for a new provider and a new building. NCH
became the new provider and the services were transferred in June
2004. Noted that Mair Williams is the Project
Manager.
4.4 The build was
completed last summer and was opened n October 2005.
4.5 Latest
Inspection Report
4.5.1 The service is now in Ty Robin Goch and is
inspected twice yearly by the CSIW (1 announced and 1 unannounced
visit). The CSIW have very rigorous standards and they go
through every point of the minimum standards. The main
function of the service is to maintain children and young people at
home with their families. Ty Robin Goch currently cares for
33 young people who are mostly from Barry. Mair presented the
report
4.6 Panel
discussion and Questions
4.6.1 Councillor Alexander queried whether the
service will be setting up a pre-school at Robins Lane. Mair
Williams replied that the building is designed for this function
and has a playroom. Noted that this was included in the
original brief but had to be put on hold due to the budget
issue. The service is currently full and 33 children is the
capacity at the current time. Irene Banfield added that there
had been 14 children at Barry Hostel and it had been envisaged that
25 children would be using Ty Robin Goch.
4.6.2 In the past there were a lot of emergency
placements and Panel queried whether this was still the case?
Mair Williams informed the group that this is not the case any more
and they receive much more planned stays.
4.6.3 Councillor Kemp referred to Section 8 of
the report and the visit made by the Occupational Therapist and the
issues regarding not having an up to date Fire Risk Assessment
(FRA). Mair Williams informed the group that the FRA was in
place at the time of the inspection, as they would not have been
allowed to open the establishment. The Fire Service has
completed a complex FRA and the CSIW have been informed.
Noted that the building now has a professionally designed sensory
room which was not there at the time of the inspection.
4.6.4 Noted that "topical ointment" is a very
robust and vigorous medical procedure which is signed off by the
GP.
4.6.5 Councillor Birch felt that the standards
have improved. Mair Williams welcomed Members to visit the
building.
4.6.6 Irene Banfield informed the group that the
Vale of Glamorgan have been asked to make a presentation to the All
Wales group on 10.10.06 as a model of good practice.
4.6.7 Councillor Hampton had received an e-mail
from Lorna Cross, Estates regarding Peterswell Road being a
residential facility. This could be for Adult Services or an
independent provider as Tony Young was not aware of this
request.
5.
Children's Complaints Officer & Handbook for Looked After
Children – Amanda Green
5.1 Noted that Amanda
Green has sent her apologies as she is attending a review for
children.
ACTION
Any reports to be circulated with the minutes
5.3
Spurgeons – Councillor Alexander understood that
Spurgeons were inundated with cases at the time when they
"folded". Tony Young felt that Amanda Green was better placed
to answer this question in terms of numbers and
usage.
Tony Young informed the group that the contract with Spurgeons
was due to expire. The Vale was aware that the Commissioner
issued guidance on complaints and advocacy and it was felt that
this was an opportunity to discuss with Health and Sheila Kelly
regarding a broader service. There was also the issue of
sustainability of the budget and the Vale was unable to commit to a
3-year contract without a clear outcome of the current budget
discussions. Spurgeons therefore withdrew and the remaining
budget is being used to spot purchase advocacy arrangements with
either Tros Gynnal or Barnardos.
5.3.2 Panel queried what will happen to children
with advocacy issues. Tony Young informed the group that the
need for advocacy arises from the Social Worker or the child will
make an appointment to see Amanda Green. If a child requests
an advocacy service via a Social Worker, the SW will see their
manager and if appropriate will make arrangements to purchase
it.
5.3.3 There is a regulation in the Children Act
for Local Authorities to provide an independent visitor service for
children Looked After or subject to a Care Order – this is still in
place and Spurgeons are providing this service at their base in
Cardiff.
6. Reports
of the Children's Commissioner
Sheila Kelly reported that a response had been made to the
Children's Commissioner's recommendations and that this had been
reviewed. There was currently no request from the Commissioner for
any update.
7. Report on
Three Special Needs Schools in the Vale of Glamorgan – Sheila
Kelly
7.1 Sheila Kelly made a
presentation to the Cabinet Advisory Group regarding the 3 special
needs schools. There will be a meeting with head teachers on
18 10 06 and depending on their views it will be taken to Head
Teachers for consultation.
Noted that in 1996 there were 5 special needs schools but now
there are 3:
7.2.1 Ashgrove – looking at
developing respite provision at Ashgrove which will enable to keep
families together and avoid expensive out of county
placements
7.2.2 Maes-y-Dyfan – there are
currently 100 pupils at Maes-y-Dyfan
7.2.3 Erw'r Delyn – there has
been a decrease – now has 50 pupils.
7.3 Noted there is a
growth in number of children with autism. There was a lengthy
discussion regarding autism and the detection of autism.
7.4 Education currently
support 30-40 young people in mainstream schools.
8. Report of
the VOG Fostering Inspection by the CSIW – Joe Frearson
Joe Frearson made a presentation (see attached) regarding the
overview of the latest inspection. Noted it was a joint
inspection between the CSIW and the Joint Review. There are
33 standards that need to be met and Fostering are inspected by the
CSIW annually.
.1 It was noted that the Vale loses approximately
10 carers per year.
8.3 Panel
Discussion and Questions
Do files include PEPs?– Joe Frearson
informed Panel that this is a separate document and should be
completed via the fieldwork team 20 days from the
placement.
Health Passport– Noted it would
contain a full medical history but would not have detailed notes
i.e. general information such as jabs, allergies etc.
Sensitive information will not be divulged. Councillor Birch
queried information regarding HIV. Tony Young informed Panel
that there is a clear protocol in Health to manage blood borne
virus issues and this would be governed by Health's protocol and
tight arrangements.
Carers Files – Noted that Social
Workers are encouraged to use SWIFT. Some of the front sheets
are out of date and Panel acknowledged the delay could be a couple
of weeks.
Education – Noted that Children First
have moved to Haydock House and therefore communication should
improve.
Health and Safety– Noted that 1 carer
out of 84 did not have a health and safety check.
Recruitment Campaign- Panel felt that
the recruitment scheme is good and noted that the Vale is
recruiting better than other Local Authorities and are attracting
people back. The Vale has 27 initial visits to make as result
from the last campaign.
Case File Recording – The Vale is
aware of this issue and recently launched a Case File Management
system.
8.3.8 Noted that the Vale is meeting 31 out of
the 33 standards. Panel acknowledged it was a very good
report and the fostering service is well managed and felt that
congratulations should be passed to Scott Ruddock, Team Manager for
Fostering.
9. Issue
from Head of Service
9.1 Green
Paper - Noted that children aged 16+ have right to remain
in foster care and children over 18 until they are 21. This
will have a cost implication.
9.2 Press
Release MAPPA Arrangements
9.2.1 Document was circulated for
information. There is a quarterly reporting arrangement in
the Vale for the protection of the public from dangerous
offenders. The regional arrangement has produced an annual
report which will accompany the press release on 23.10.06.
9.2.2 ACTION
Tony Young to provide copies of the report to
Corporate Parenting Panel once received and to provide an update on
the current position in the Vale.
9.2.3 Councillor Hampton queried funding.
Tony Young informed the group that when the report is published the
Vale will have an opportunity at the consultation round (currently
in early stages).
10. Future Reporting
System – Mark Petherick
Mark Petherick circulated a format of a proposed new reporting
system and asked whether Corporate Parenting Panel would like to
adopt it. It would formalise Corporate Parenting Panel.
Noted that the minutes are currently sent to Cabinet.
Councillor Hampton had a concern regarding confidential information
in Amanda Green's reports regarding complaints being shared with
Cabinet. Mark Petherick reassured Panel that confidential
information is not reported to Cabinet.
10.2 ACTION
Item to be deferred to next meeting for fuller
discussion
Terms of Reference to be circulated and endorsed by
Cabinet
11. Future
Dates
Agreed for meetings to be held 11am – 1pm (but do not need to
finish with lunch).
11.2 Frequency – meetings
are to be quarterly therefore the next meeting needs to be arranged
for December.
11.3 ACTION
Mark Petherick to ask Members for their availability
during December – Councillor Hampton is not available on
Wednesdays
12. Future Agenda
Items
Local Safeguarding Boards – Tony Young
Joint Commissioning – Tony Young
Update Report on the developing partnership with Housing –
Tony Young
C2803
CABINET ADVISORY COMMITTEE - VISIBLE SERVICES - 23RD
NOVEMBER, 2006 -
RESOLVED - T H A T the following report be noted and officers
submit reports, as detailed, to future meetings of the Cabinet:
Present:
Cllr. G.A. Cox (Chairman)
Cllr. A.M. Ernest (Building Maintenance)
Keri Hutchings (Cabinet Support Officer)
Miles Punter (Head of Visible Services)
Clifford Parish (O.M. Waste Management &
Cleansing)
Apologies for Absence:
Cllr. H.J.W James, Cllr. T.H. Jarvie, and Nicola
Williams
(a)
MINUTES-
Recommended – That the minutes of the meeting held on
27th April 2006 be approved.
(b)
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST-
None were declared.
(c)
Potential Residual Waste Treatment Technologies:
The committee were presented with a report of the latest
guidance on appropriate treatment technologies for residual waste
following the Welsh Local Government Association's (WLGA) member
briefing session on new technologies (May 2006).
The report considers the most current guidance on new
treatment technologies for residual waste that will be required for
the council to meet that statutory Biological Municipal Waste (BMW)
landfill diversion targets. The report is attached at appendix
A.
Recommended – That Cabinet be requested to consider
the following recommendation:
1.
THAT a report be prepared for Cabinet detailing progress on the
future waste disposal options for the Vale of
Glamorgan.
Reason for Recommendation/s
1.
To ensure that the Council considers new waste disposal
technologies for the treatment/disposal of residual
waste.
(d)
Review of Waste Management & Cleansing's Public Toilet
Provision – Possible New Public Convenience at Penarth Headland
Link / Cardiff Bay Barrage;
A report was presented to the committee on the proposed
course of action to be taken regarding a potential public
convenience (PC) on the Cardiff Bay Barrage due to an expected
increase in tourism. At an earlier meeting of the committee
(274/06) it was requested that additional PC provision was to be
considered at the Barrage. A meeting was held on the 4/7/06 with
the Cardiff Harbour Authority to ascertain their interest in the
proposal of additional PC provision. The report is attached at
appendix B.
Recommended – That Cabinet be requested to consider
the following recommendation:
1.
THAT until issues relating to the Penarth Headland Link are
resolved no action is taken at this time in respect to the possible
provision of a new PC at the Barrage.
Reason for Recommendation/s
1.
THAT without the Headland Link the existing service provision is
considered adequate.
(e)
Waste Management Services Peer Review:
The committee received a report to inform them of the
actions that are to be taken to address the areas for improvement
identified within the Peer Review report. The report is attached at
appendix C.
Recommended – That Cabinet be requested to consider
the following recommendation:
1.
THAT Cabinet Advisory Committee endorses the proposed Action Plan
to address the areas for Improvement identified within the Peer
Review.
Following extensive discussion of the report, the Committee
recommend the following additions:
2.
That Cabinet notes the success of the Peer Review for the Council
at both Officer and Councillor level.
3.
That Regional Co-operation regarding Waste Technologies becomes a
standing item on the agenda for the Cabinet Advisory Committee for
Visible Services
4.
That Composting waste is considered at a future
meeting.
Reason for Recommendation/s
1.
To ensure that the actions for improvement are incorporated into
the Council's waste management policies and
practices.
2.
To recognise the work by both Officers and
Councillors.
3.
To enable the committee to progress matters.
4.
To enable the committee to progress matters.
EXCLUSION OF PRESS AND PUBLIC -
RESOLVED - T H A T under Section 100A(4) of the Local
Government Act 1972, the press and public be excluded from the
meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that
they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined
in Part 4 of Schedule 12A (as amended) of the Act, the relevant
paragraphs of the Schedule being referred to in brackets after the
minute heading.
(f)
Roundabout Sponsorship and Maintenance:
The committee received a report regarding roundabout
sponsorship and maintenance and the relevant issues surrounding
them. A contract had been completed with Immediate Solutions for
the sponsorship of roundabouts and entry to the Vale signs.
Presently, there are a number of companies who had entered into a
contract to sponsor potential sites. The contract stipulates that
improvements would be carried out to each site utilising the funds
received. However, the ability to carry out improvements was
largely dependant upon the take up of the sponsors.
The Sponsorship of entry signs to the Vale was ongoing and
approval from the Welsh Assembly Government had been obtained. A
request had been made for Vale entry signs on the M4 to be
progressed, which had also been approved by the Assembly. A request
has been made for alternative sources of sponsorship be considered
for street lighting columns and benches. It was proposed that this
is progressed at a later date when all of the available roundabout
and entry sites have been sponsored.
With regard to horticultural maintenance of the roundabouts
the initial response from advertisers has been disappointing as it
was expected that better funding streams for maintenance would
become available. The Parks and Grounds Maintenance Division are
currently evaluating their improvement and existing work programme
to implement possible improved maintenance in the future.
Recommended – That Cabinet be requested to consider
the following recommendation:
(1) That Cabinet
Advisory Committee for Visible Services endorse the content of this
report.
(2) This report
is referred to Cabinet for approval.
Reason for Recommendation/s
(1) In order to
address the issues.
(2) In order to
address the request from Cabinet for reports on the further
sponsorship of infrastructure and M4 signs.
ITEMS WHICH THE CHAIRMAN HAD DECIDED WAS URGENT
–
RESOLVED - T H A T the following item which the Chairman had
decided was urgent for the reason given, be considered.
(g)
Kerbside Green Waste Collection – Purchase of Reusable
Bags.
Urgent by reason of the need to place an order for a
product to permit delivery prior to April 1st
2007
The Cabinet Advisory Committee for Visible Services received
a report from the Waste Development Manager of the intention to
purchase reusable green waste bags in readiness for improvements in
the kerbside green waste service planned for 2007. The report is
attached at appendix D.
Recommended – That Cabinet be requested to consider
the following recommendation:
1.
To order 40,000 reusable green waste bags.
2.
The provision of a further report to the Executive detailing the
arrangements for the introduction of a fortnightly kerbside
collection system from April 1st 2007.
Reason for Recommendation/s
(1) TO permit
the use of the sustainable waste grant for the purchase of reusable
bags.
(2) TO allow
Cabinet to consider all details associated with the introduction of
a fortnightly green waste collection service for
2007.
(h)
Forward Work Programme
Urgent by reason of the need to progress matter
prior to the next Advisory Committee meeting.
(hi)
Victoria Park
Recommended – That Cabinet be requested to consider
the following recommendation:
1.
That an update report on Victoria Park is brought before the
committee at the next meeting
Reason for Recommendation/s
1.
To inform the committee.
(hii)
Flower Beds in Penarth
Recommended – That Cabinet be requested to consider
the following recommendation:
1.
That Penarth Town Council be contacted with the view to improve
flower beds in and around Penarth.
Reason for Recommendation/s
1.
To improve the Area.
(hiii)
Green Cone
The committee extensively discussed the issues relating to
'Green Cone' which is a natural system that reduces food waste to
its natural components of water, carbon dioxide and a small
residue. This solar heated unit takes all cooked and uncooked food
waste, which decomposes under sunny conditions.
Recommended – That Cabinet be requested to consider
the following recommendation:
1.
That this system is inconsistent with the composting policy for the
Vale of Glamorgan at the present time, and as such will not be
pursued at the current time.
Reason for Recommendation/s
1.
To inform Cabinet.
C2804
CABINET ADVISORY COMMITTEE - BUILDING MAINTENANCE - 28TH
NOVEMBER, 2006 -
RESOLVED - T H A T the following report be noted and officers
submit reports, as detailed, to future meetings of the Cabinet:
Present:
Cllr. A.M Ernest (Chairman)
Cllr. J.W. Thomas (Housing & Community Safety)
Cllr G.A. Cox (Visible Services)
Steven Morris (Head of Building & Vehicle
Services)
John Gleeson (OM Building and Vehicle Services)
Adam Edwards (Education and Public Building
Manager)
Simon Bowden (Building Cleaning and Security
Manager)
Mark Petherick (Cabinet Officer)
Sarah Hicks (Cabinet Assistant)
Apologies for Absence:
Cllr H.J.W. James
(a)
MINUTES-
That the minutes of the meeting held on the 2nd
October, 2006 be approved.
(b)
DECLARATIONSOF INTEREST –
None were declared.
7
Cabinet Advisory Committee Update Report
The Cabinet Advisory Committee for Building Maintenance
received a report from the Head of Building and Vehicle Services to
update members on the progress relating to recommendations
contained within previous reports. The report is attached at
appendix 1.
Recommendation – that Cabinet be requested to consider
the following proposal(s):
(1) That Cabinet
note the performance results arising from the review period for the
Empty Property Management and Control Procedure.
(2) That Cabinet
note and affirm the performance management systems adopted the
Cleaning Service.
(3) That Cabinet
note the position in respect of the review of security arrangements
for offices and depots and that this matter will no longer be
reported to the Cabinet Advisory Committee for Building
Maintenance.
(4) That Cabinet
note the current position on progress relating to the TRIBAL action
plan for Building Services and that regular progress reports be
submitted to the Cabinet Advisory Committee for Building
Maintenance.
Reasons for Recommendations
(1) To advise
Cabinet on the outturn performance indicators relating to empty
property management.
(2) To apprise
Cabinet of the performance management systems adopted by Cleaning
Services.
(3) To update
Cabinet on security arrangements for offices and depots and respond
to the transfer of the client role to Property
Services.
(4) To apprise Cabinet
on progress in respect of actions within the TRIBAL action plan for
Building Services and facilitate regular future progress
updates.
ITEMS WHICH THE CHAIRMAN HAD DECIDED WERE URGENT-
RESOLVED – That the following item which the
Chairman had decide was urgent for the reason given, be
considered.
Urgent by reason of proposed arrangements as a result of
Cabinet Minute No 2746
(d) Building Services
Participation in the Council's Capital Building Programme:
The committee received a report to propose an agreed
mechanism for the involvement of Building Maintenance in the
Council's Capital Building Programme as a result of Cabinet Minute
No 2746 which waives the £100k threshold for the issuing of work to
Building Services. The report is attached at appendix
2.
Recommendation – that Cabinet be requested to consider the
following proposal(s):
(1) That Cabinet
endorse the proposed framework for Building Services involvement in
the Council's Capital Building Programme.
(2) That future
reports on the market testing of the service be provided to the
Cabinet Sub-Committee for Building Maintenance.
Following extensive discussion of the report, the Committee
recommend the following addition:
(3) That paragraph 6
of the report is amended as follows:
Schemes up to £50,000 may be offered to Building
Services, where it is deemed to be value for money, and the core
work content will be undertaken by direct resources. If it is
the intention to partly or fully sub-let the required works, this
will be subject to the approval of the Property
Section.
Reasons for Proposals
(1) To seek
Cabinet approval for the proposed framework.
(2)&(3) To keep Cabinet appraised of the market testing
performance of Building Services.
Urgent by reason of this initiative issue requires to be
progressed to achieve proposed implementation date.
(e) Partnering within
the Building Maintenance DSO
The committee received a report to seek Cabinet
endorsement to explore and develop suitable partnering options in
respect of the repair and maintenance service for void
properties.
The report is attached at appendix
3.
Recommended – That Cabinet be requested to consider
the following proposals
(1) To endorse
the aims of Building Maintenance in exploring and developing
suitable partnering options in respect of void repair
works.
(2)
To agree that further investigation into the viability of
partnering opportunities within other service areas of the division
be undertaken.
(3) To support
the adoption of the principles and methodology of PRINCE 2
(Projects IN Controlled Environments) for all project management
aspects of the partnering process.
Reasons for Proposals
(1) To
demonstrate a proactive approach in addressing critical areas of
the consultant's action plan, particularly in terms of satisfying
'value' concerns and turn around times.
(2) To maximise
the benefits that can be realised from strategic alliancing and to
invest these savings into other areas of the business, e.g.
planned/cyclical works.
(3) To recognise PRINCE
2 as the standard method for project management and provide a
flexible and adaptable approach for the recommended
projects.
Urgent by reason of the need to supply the Cabinet Advisory
Committee for Building Maintenance with information prior to the
next meeting.
(f)
Presentation – Building Cleaning (Performance Related Pilot Scheme
– Rhws Primary School)
The Committee received a presentation regarding
'Building Cleaning – performance related pilot scheme. The
presentation is attached at appendix 4.
Recommended – That Cabinet be requested to consider the
following proposals
10 That the content held within the
presentation is noted.
(2) That a further
cluster of schools be added to the project to be implemented during
the next financial year.
Reasons for Proposals
(1) To keep members
informed.
(2) To continue the
success of the work already undertaken.
C2805
WALES CHARTER FOR MEMBER SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT (CX) (SCRUTINY -
CORPORATE RESOURCES) -
The report outlined the current position regarding the Council's
submission for Wales Charter for Member Support and Development
status and sought approval of the revised Member Development
Strategy. In July 2003 the Welsh Local Government Association
had published its first Member Development Strategy for
Wales. As part of that Strategy it had been agreed to develop
a new Charter to provide a framework for provision and development
of Member Development and Support Services and facilities within
Councils.
The Council had had a strategy in place since November
2003. However, attached to the report was a revised Member
Development Strategy for consideration by Cabinet. The
revised Strategy and Member Development Charter had been subject to
consideration by the All-Wales Member Support Officer Network (on
which the Council was represented) and the Welsh All-Party Task and
Finish Group. The Strategy had also taken full account of the
findings and recommendations of the Review of the New Political
Structures published by the Local Government and Public Services
Committee on the Welsh Assembly Government in 2003.
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED - T H A T the revised Member Development Strategy be
deferred to allow full consultation with all Council
Members.
Reason for decision
To apprise Members and seek their comments.
C2806
ONEVALE PROGRAMME (CX) (SCRUTINY - CORPORATE RESOURCES)
-
The report provided Cabinet with progress on the OneVale
Programme and it was noted that future progress reports would be
provided on a quarterly basis. Cabinet had approved the
OneVale Business Case on 5th October, 2005 and the
programme had started in earnest on 1st January,
2006. The report highlighted that there were to date nine
core streams to the OneVale Programme which were detailed as:
Customer Contact
Business Process Re-engineering (BPR)
Information Management
Property
HR and Payroll
Finance
Procurement
ICT
Programme and Change Management.
OneVale was a large and ambitious programme and was developed in
order to provide a better service to the Council's customers and as
a means of preparing the Council for the challenges of the
21st Century. The Chief Executive also highlighted
four milestones that were due to be achieved in December 2006 as
follows:-
The opening of "Contact OneVale" as from 4 December 2006 for all
Visible Services enquiries (service requests and general
enquiries). In addition, the Contact Centre was also taking general
enquiry calls for Electoral Registration. From January 2007, the
Contact Centre would be taking service requests, information
provision and general enquiry calls for Public Housing Maintenance
and Repairs and Building Control. The Contact Centre was currently
located at the Business Support Centre and would re-locate in
2007.
The establishment of an integrated transactional HR and Payroll
Team called TransAct as of 4 December 2006. The purpose of TransAct
was to carry out all the administrative and transactional
activities from the point of application for a post right through
to termination.
The implementation of the core Human Resources (uamnHHR) system as
of 6 December 2006. This would be a key component of the HR suite
of applications in adopting a structured approach to managing
workforce information.
The implementation of the Council's new bi-lingual Web Site from 18
December 2006.
The total capital investment that had been calculated over the
first five years of the programme was £14.8 million. The net
revenue cash impact for the programme was a cumulative reduction in
expenditure of £17.3 million over 10 years. The cash flow
position of the programme showed a positive inflow of £2.5 million
and represented a nine year pay-back period and, thereafter, annual
savings of £2 million would continue.
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED -
(1) T H A T the progress in
respect of the OneVale Programme including costs be noted.
(2) T H A T OneVale Council
staff be thanked for their support to the OneVale Programme.
(3) T H A T the following
proposed programme plan for Oracle modules 2007 / 2008, as detailed
in paragraph 17, of the report be approved:
"
|
Oracle Modules
|
Benefits
|
|
Financials
|
The current financials Powersolve system will need
replacing by April 2008. The Oracle financials family of
applications automates and streamlines all financial business
processes, for enterprise-wide daily business intelligence that
will allow the Council to make more informed decisions, improve
operations and reduce costs. Benefits include :-
·
Information/control of procurement.
·
Accurate management information.
·
Fully integrated financial data.
·
Flexible financial reporting capabilities.
|
|
HR Self Service
|
Oracle HR Self Service is a fundamental component to Oracle's
"end to end" HR strategy, the benefits being :-
· Cut the cost out of HR transactions.
· A single point for all day to day people
management activities.
· Enable HR specialists to focus on core
strategic issues.
|
|
i-Recruitment
|
Oracle I-Recruitment is a full-cycle recruiting solution that
fully automates the entire recruitment process, the benefits being
:-
Automates entire the "end to end" recruitment cycle.
· Provides easy to use functionality for the
job seeker.
· Integrates with other Oracle applications so
that it streamlines the entire recruitment
process.
· Improves analysis on recruitment
practices.
|
"
(4) T H A T the tendering
for future external support as outlined in paragraph 23 of the
report be authorised and delegated authority be granted to the
Chief Executive in consultation with the Deputy Leader and Director
of Finance, ICT and Property to accept the more economically
advantageous tender(s) subject to the value of the tenders not
exceeding £1.25 million.
(5) T H A T the report be
referred to the Scrutiny Committee (Corporate Resources) for
consideration.
(6) T H A T all Members of
the Council be afforded the opportunity to visit "Contact OneVale"
and to contact the Chief Executive's office to confirm
arrangements.
Reasons for decisions
(1) To note progress of the
OneVale Programme.
(2) To thank staff.
(3) To agree next year's
plan for Oracle implementation.
(4) To procure external
support to ensure the proposed 2007/08 programme was delivered.
(5) To allow the Scrutiny
Committee (Corporate Resources) to consider the contents.
(6) To apprise Members.
C2807
CYMORTH PLAN 2007/08 - REVIEW AND EXIT STRATEGY (DCS) (SCRUTINY -
COMMUNITY WELLBEING AND SAFETY) -
The purpose of the report was to review the Cymorth Plan Exit
Strategy and to inform the Cabinet of any potential shortfalls in
funding.
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED - T H A T at the request of the new Cabinet Member for
Social and Care Services, the item be withdrawn in order for all
matters to be duly considered.
C2808
VALE OF GLAMORGAN UNITARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 1996 - 2011: BACKGROUND
PAPER ON PLANNING OBLIGATIONS (DEER) (SCRUTINY - ECONOMY AND
ENVIRONMENT) -
Cabinet was updated on the current position relating to a draft
Background Paper on Planning Obligations which had previously been
reported to Cabinet on 20th April, 2005. A copy of
the report to Cabinet on 20th April, 2005 was attached
at Appendix A to the report and a copy of the draft Background
Paper was attached at Appendix B. The draft Background Paper
and the report to Cabinet of 20th April, 2005 advised of
the Council's general approach to seeking and implementing Planning
Obligations. The draft Paper also advocated the levying of a
charge which was equivalent to 2% of the value of the Planning
Agreement to cover the Council's administrative costs in overseeing
the implementation of the obligations contained within the
agreement.
Paragraph 11 of the earlier report had advised that many local
planning authorities had appointed specific officers to negotiate,
implement and administer Planning Obligations, resulting not only
in a more consistent approach but also improved community
benefits. It was envisaged that the 2% administration charge
could be used to fund such a post. However, following further
consideration it had been considered that a 2% administration
charge based on the value of the agreement was not an appropriate
way forward and as consequence of further research a preferred
option would be to include a clause in all Planning Agreements to
require the payment of a fee to cover costs incurred in
negotiating, implementing and monitoring such agreements. The
report recommended that the fee be set at 20% of the value of the
planning application fee and a fee of £150 recommended as the
minimum amount chargeable. Appendix C to the report provided
details of the procedure note and fee schedule which detailed the
suggested approach.
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED - T H A T the following resolutions be approved subject
to consultation with the Planning Committee:
(1) T H A T the principle of
including within all planning Agreements a provision or clause for
the payment of a fee to the sum of 20% of the value of the relevant
planning application fee, subject to a minimum fee of £150 upon
completion of the Agreement and prior to the release of the
relevant planning permission be endorsed.
(2) T H A T the above fees
also apply to planning Agreements, which were submitted on
unilateral Agreements.
(3) T H A T in the event of
the application in question being a free re-submission of a
previous planning permission with a related planning Agreement, the
fee will be the sum of 20% of the value of the original planning
application fee or the minimum fee of £150, whichever the
greater.
(4) T H A T works be
progressed on a service level standard to deal with all aspects of
Planning Agreements.
(5) T H A T the percentage
fee applied be reviewed on an annual basis.
(6) T H A T the proposed fee
structure apply to all resolutions of Planning Committee, requiring
planning Agreements from 1st January, 2007 and any
unilateral Agreements submitted for consideration to the Council
from 1st January, 2007.
Reasons for Recommendations
(1) To assist in meeting the
costs of drafting and monitoring all planning Agreements relating
to developers within the Vale of Glamorgan.
(2) To ensure that the
proposed fees also apply to unilateral Agreements which require
assessment and subsequent monitoring.
(3) To ensure that the
proposed fee system includes clauses for re-submission.
(4) To provide confidence to
all parties involved in planning Agreements that work relating to
Agreements will be dealt with in an efficient and expeditious
manner.
(5) To ensure that the
appropriateness of the fees applied are kept under review.
(6) To allow for the
appropriate commencement of the new fee structure relating the
planning Agreements.
C2809
APPROVAL OF HIGHWAY ASSET MANAGEMENT PLAN (DEER) (SCRUTINY -
ECONOMY AND ENVIRONMENT) -
The Highway Asset Management Plan was presented for
approval. The report noted that all Welsh Unitary Authorities
were required to produce a Highways Asset Management Plan and the
Operational Manager (Highway Maintenance) had taken the lead in the
production of the HAMPs across Wales. Copies of the full
Highway Asset Management Plan were available for inspection in the
Council's Group Rooms, Members Room and the Cabinet
Office.
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED - T H A T the Highway Asset Management Plan be
approved.
Reason for decision
In order that the Highway Asset Management Plan can be
approved.
C2810
VALE OF GLAMORGAN COUNCIL - CARBON MANAGEMENT PLAN (DEER) (SCRUTINY
- ECONOMY AND ENVIRONMENT) -
Members were advised that at a Cabinet meeting on 7th
September, 2005 (Minute No. C2046), it had been agreed that the
Council would participate in the Carbon Management Plan Initiative
and the report before Cabinet provided an update on progress.
A Carbon Management Working Group had been set up and comprised
of representatives from all relevant services. Appendix 1 to
the report contained a table of meetings that had taken place
during the year, together with details of meetings planned for the
future. The meeting on 8th June, 2006 had
represented a re-launch of the Carbon Management Plan.
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED -
(1) T H A T the need to
reduce carbon emissions by modifying Council activities be
acknowledged.
(2) T H A T the progress
that had been made in developing the Carbon Management Plan and the
need to consider the allocation of resources to achieve carbon
emission reduction be noted.
Reasons for decisions
(1) Participation in the
Plan would assist the Council to reach the Policy Agreement
targets.
(2) The Council had been
warned that all policy agreement targets had to be reached in order
for the Welsh Assembly Government to release all of the £1.4
million award.
C2811
CONSULTATION ON THE DRAFT TECHNICAL ADVICE NOTE 5 ANNEX: THE
ASSESSMENT OF DEVELOPMENT PLANS IN WALES UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF
THE HABITATS REGULATIONS (DEER) (SCRUTINY - ECONOMY AND
ENVIRONMENT) -
The report advised Cabinet of the Council's formal response to
WAG in respect of the consultation draft of the Technical Advice
Note 5 Annex. A copy of the Annex had been placed in the
Members Room for reference.
Planning Policy Wales, March 2002 had set out the land use
planning policies for the Welsh Assembly Government and they were
supplemented by a series of Technical Advice Notes.
Procedural advice had also been given in National Assembly for
Wales/Welsh Office circulars. The draft TAN5 Annex had been
prepared to provide planning guidance on how to implement the
Habitats Regulations for land use plans in Wales. Members
were advised that within the Vale of Glamorgan Council's boundary
there were two European sites, namely the Severn Estuary and
Dunraven Bay near Southerndown. TAN5 Annex advised that Local
Planning Authorities might have to take into account other European
sites outside their administrative boundaries if it was determined
that a Local Development Plan was likely to have a significant
effect on them. The Welsh Assembly Government had invited
organisations and interested parties to comment on the draft Annex
to TAN5 and it was therefore in the interests of the Council to
make a positive contribution to the development of national
planning policies. Officers had considered the draft TAN5
Annex and minor comments had been suggested at Appendix 1 to the
report which would form the basis of the Council's formal
response.
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED - T H A T subject to the consideration of the report by
the Planning Committee the comments attached to the report at
Appendix 1 be submitted to the Welsh Assembly Government as the
Council's formal response to the consultation on the draft TAN5
Annex.
Reason for decision
To advise Members of the consultation exercise and to enable the
Council's representations to be made to the Welsh Assembly
Government on the draft TAN5 by 18th December, 2006.
C2812
HOME TO SCHOOL TRANSPORT - SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL AND TENDERED
SERVICES (DEER) (SCRUTINY - ECONOMY AND ENVIRONMENT) -
The report provided Cabinet with the outcome of the independent
assessor's re-evaluation of the routes identified by the Scrutiny
Committee (Economy and Environment) and the subsequent decision of
Cabinet on 6th September, 2006 to re-evaluate a number
of routes. The report also advised of the need to tender for
further routes for the coming academic term as detailed in the body
of the report. The routes that were requested for further
assessment were as follows:
"4.1 Michaelston-Le-Pit to St Cyres
Comprehensive School – The assessor had previously recommended
re-assessing this route. The reassessment took place on the
23rd November and due to excessive traffic on the
Pen-y-Turnpike Road the route failed to comply with the guidelines
as a safe walking route to school. The pupils travelling from
Michaelston Le Pit should now be accommodated by taxi service at
additional cost to the Council's School Transport budget. In
addition, the assessor considered whether the "Salmons Leap"
footpath route was available to children, but concluded that given
the weather and ground conditions prevalent during this time of
year the route was unsuitable.
4.2 Eglwys Brewis to
Llantwit Major Comprehensive School – The independent assessor did
not believe that this route needed re-assessing given that the
Council had implemented his previous suggestions to make the route
safe by constructing a footway through Harding Close. He did
however, undertake a reassessment in light of Cabinet's previous
resolution and declared the route safe. No further action is
therefore required in respect of this route.
4.3 St Donats to Llantwit
Major Comprehensive School – The assessor reassessed this route and
again declared the route as safe in accordance with the
guidelines. No further action is therefore required in
respect of this route.
4.4 Llysworney to Cowbridge
Comprehensive School – I also took the opportunity of requesting
that the independent assessor undertake an assessment of the
walking route from Llysworney to Cowbridge Comprehensive
School. Following assessment the route in question was deemed
unsafe. As a consequence the Council will need to provide
free school transport bus passes on the Village Bus service to any
pupils who attend Cowbridge Comprehensive School and reside in
Llysworney. There are no financial implications arising as a
consequence of his finding as the Village Bus Service is already
subsidised by the Council."
Copies of the Assessment report were awaited and would be
circulated to Members on receipt. In addition to the above
the report also advised Cabinet of other recent matters that
related to home to school transport which had required
consideration by officers.
A request has been made by Sully Community Council to stop
children from alighting at the official bus stop in the vicinity of
Minehead Avenue, Sully, and requesting a new school bus stop
between Burnham Avenue and Minehead Avenue. It was the
opinion of the Community Council that such an amendment would be
safer for pupils given that they would be more likely to use the
zebra crossing. The request had been denied by officers due
to concerns relating to highway safety. The independent
assessor had also raised similar concerns, and it was the
Director's intention to write to the Community Council to explain
the Council's position. It was also proposed that the
Director would correspond with parents to request that they
instruct their children to use the crossing provided. Cabinet
were advised that once the pupils had left the vehicle, parents
assumed responsibility for their children's actions.
It had been necessary to introduce a further route from the
Western Vale to Ysgol Bro Morgannwg due to a new pupil requesting
transport provision from this location. It was therefore
considered that this represented a good opportunity to split the
current two convoluted routes into three less onerous
services. The
decision was also considered reasonable and appropriate given
that two recent minor accidents had occurred in the lanes during
the term.
Further to a lack of drivers and a dispute with their Landlord,
E.S.T. Bus Ltd had given notice on three services with effect from
22nd December 2006. It was therefore intended to
re-tender the S15 service Wick to Brynteg Comprehensive School, the
S23 service Sigingstone to Cowbridge Comprehensive School and the
P95 service Corntown to St Brides Major C/W Primary School in time
for the new academic term January 2007.
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED -
(1) T H A T the findings of
the independent assessor in respect of the following routes to
school be endorsed:
(i) Michaelston
Le Pit to St Cyres Comprehensive School.
(ii) Llysworney to
Cowbridge Comprehensive School.
(2) T H A T the Eglwys
Brewis to Llantwit Major Comprehensive School and St. Donats to
Llantwit Major Comprehensive School findings be deferred for
further information to be presented to Cabinet.
(3) T H A T the changes in
home to school transport provision in respect of Michaelston Le Pit
to Cyres Comprehensive School and Llysworney to Cowbridge
Comprehensive School be introduced with immediate effect.
(4) T H A T the position
relating to the inappropriateness of the request for the provision
of a new bus stop between Burnham and Minehead Avenue, Sully be
endorsed, and that Sully Community Council be advised of Cabinet's
resolution in this matter.
(5) T H A T the introduction
of an additional service route from the Western Vale to Ysgol Bro
Morgannwg and amendments to existing routes be endorsed.
(6) T H A T the decision to
re-tender Services P95, S15 and S23 be endorsed.
(7) T H A T a further report
be submitted to Cabinet on the results of the re-tendering of
Services P95, S15 and S23.
(8) T H A T the Hayes Road
safe route to Sully School, be re-examined and a report be
presented to Cabinet.
(9) T H A T a copy of the
report be referred to the Scrutiny Committee (Economy and
Environment) for information purposes.
Reasons for Recommendations
(1) To inform Cabinet of the
outcome of the route assessments.
(2) To inform Members.
(3) To ensure the provision
of Home to School Transport given the findings of the route
assessments.
(4) To endorse the stance
taken in respect of the request to relocate the school bus stop in
question, and to advise Sully Community Council of Cabinet's
position in this matter.
(5) To endorse the changes
proposed for Home to School Transport for the Western vale to Ysgol
Bro Morgannwg.
(6) To endorse the
re-tendering of Services P95, S15 and S23.
(7) To inform Cabinet of the
results of the re-tendering exercise.
(8) To advise Members.
(9) To keep the Scrutiny
Committee (Economy and Environment) informed on matters relating to
Home to School Transport.
C2813
LAND TO THE NORTH OF THE RAILWAY LINE, RHOOSE DRAFT DEVELOPMENT
BRIEF: RESULTS OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION EXERCISE (DEER) (SCRUTINY -
ECONOMY AND ENVIRONMENT) -
A consultation exercise had been undertaken in respect of the
draft Development Brief and approval was sought for various
amendments to be made to the document. The amended
Development Brief was attached at Appendix B to the report.
RESOLVED - T H A T the item be withdrawn in order for the
Cabinet to undertake a site visit as previously agreed and to
investigate the issues further.
C2814
SICKNESS ABSENCE SUMMARY - HALF YEAR AND QUARTERLY ABSENCE APRIL -
SEPTEMBER 2006 (DLD) (SCRUTINY - CORPORATE RESOURCES)
-
Information in respect of the April - September 2006 period in
the context of sickness trends since April 2002 was presented to
Cabinet. The whole authority figure for April - September
2006 based on available data was
|
Average Lost Days/Shifts per FTE
|
5.20
|
|
Sick Rate, FTE
|
4.86
|
|
Lost days
|
19407.52
|
A previous Cabinet had endorsed an extension of the reporting
tables in the format as detailed in the report and Members were
requested to note the information within the attachment. The
report highlighted that in terms of the original Council target of
10 days the actual outturn of 5.20 days/shifts at the conclusion of
quarter 2 as disappointing given the historically high incidents of
absence in quarter 3 and 4. However, during the period for
the previous year (2005/06) the half year outturn was 6.01 days
which indicated a continuing reduction in overall sickness
levels. However, in accordance with Minute No. C2613, Chief
Officers had set their sickness targets for 2006/2007 as
follows:
|
|
Actual Average Days Lost Per FTE
Half year 2005 / 2006
|
Actual Average Days Lost Per FTE
Half year 2006 / 2006
|
2006 / 2007 target days per FTE
(2005 / 2006 Targets in brackets)
|
|
Chief Executive
|
2.14
|
8.25
|
7(7)
|
|
Finance, ICT & Property
|
3.38
|
2.82
|
8.5(9)
|
|
Legal & Regulatory
|
6.80
|
5.03
|
11(12.5)
|
|
Schools
|
4.79
|
3.44
|
9(9)
|
|
Education (Civic)
|
1.80
|
1.61
|
8(7)
|
|
Community Education
|
4.99
|
7.22
|
9(10)
|
|
Libraries
|
4.18
|
1.85
|
9(8)
|
|
Human Resources & Equalities
|
3.58
|
3.84
|
8(8)
|
|
Housing
|
7.46
|
8.11
|
11(11)
|
|
Community Services
|
7.68
|
8.34
|
17(17)
|
|
Catering
|
8.21
|
7.32
|
9(9)
|
|
Visible Services
|
10.42
|
8.11
|
15(15)
|
|
Building - Cleaners
|
5.87
|
9.89
|
14(15)
|
|
Building Services
|
7.68
|
5.39
|
15(12)
|
|
Leisure Centres
|
7.46
|
8.30
|
13(13)
|
|
Support Services / Planning & Transportation / Economic
Development & Leisure Other
|
8.05
|
4.78
|
11(12)
|
|
Chief Officers
|
0.79
|
1.29
|
6(7)
|
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED - T H A T the contents of the report be noted.
Reason for decision
To provide Members with the sickness absence figures and trends
in line with corporate aims and objectives.
C2815
THE ENVIRONMENT ACT 1995 - THE AIR QUALITY (WALES) REGULATIONS 2000
(AS AMENDED) LOCAL AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT (DLRS) (SCRUTINY -
CORPORATE RESOURCES) -
Cabinet approval was sought to carry out statutory consultation
in respect of the Council's latest review and assessment of air
quality (Round 2 - Update and Screening 2006) prepared in
accordance with statutory guidance and to inform Cabinet of the
outcome of recommendations as detailed in the minutes of Cabinet
held on 21st June, 2006.
On 21st June 2006 Cabinet had resolved
(1) THAT the Review and
Assessment of Air Quality (Round 2 – Detailed Assessment 2005
(Sulphur Dioxide)) be approved and circulated for
consultation.
(2) THAT Sulphur Dioxide
Monitoring be continued in the vicinity of Aberthaw Power Station
and the outcome reported to Cabinet.
(3) THAT based on the
evidence no AQMA be declared in the vicinity of Aberthaw Power
Station.
(4) THAT a report be
submitted to Cabinet in 6 months detailing progress on the results
of the Sulphur Dioxide monitoring and that the list of consultees
be reviewed and updated.
In respect of resolution (1) – Statutory consultation was
carried out and responses were received from the Welsh Assembly
Government, Vale of Glamorgan Local Health Board and Bridgend
County Borough Council. The Welsh Assembly Government
accepted the conclusions of the report and agreed with the decision
of Cabinet not to declare an AQMA for sulphur dioxide (SO2) in the
vicinity of Aberthaw Power Station whilst the remaining respondents
offered no comments.
Resolution (2) - The Council had continued to monitor
sulphur dioxide levels in the vicinity of Aberthaw Power Station
and to date there had been 7 exceedances of the 15 minute mean (266
ug/m3 not to be exceeded more than 35 times per year) and 1
exceedance of the I hour mean (350 ug/m3 not to be exceeded more
than 24 times per year). RWE Npower also continued to monitor
sulphur dioxide levels and to date there have been no exceedances
of the 15 minute mean.
Resolution (3) - No AQMA was declared in respect of
SO2.
The report also highlighted that the latest review and
assessment of air quality prepared in accordance with statutory
requirements was included at Appendix 1 to the report. The
findings of the report were as follows:
"
It is unlikely that National Air Quality Objectives will be
exceeded in the Vale of Glamorgan in respect of six of the seven
pollutants of interest, namely, carbon monoxide, benzene,
1.3-butadiene, lead, sulphur dioxide and particulates (PM10).
The exception to the above is nitrogen dioxide in the Cogan/Merrie
Harrier areas. Monitoring has demonstrated high levels of this
pollutant in these areas. This has been exacerbated by work
carried out at the Barons Court to signalise the junction as part
of a Section 278 Agreement with IKEA. This work is due to be
completed by the end of November 2006 and further monitoring will
be carried out to determine if any improvement in traffic
congestion and air quality has been experienced."
A draft report had already been provided to WAG with a provision
that the Council did not wait the further 12 month data before
undertaking a detailed air quality assessment in respect of
Nitrogen Dioxide should there not be a reduction in the levels
monitored in the Cogan/Merrie Harrier areas. The
recommendations of the report were detailed as:
"
Monitoring for sulphur dioxide is continued in the vicinity of
Aberthaw Power Station to ensure air quality does not exceed the
National Air Quality objective for this pollutant. Should the
National Air Quality Objective be exceeded the Council must be
prepared to declare an AQMA. Failure to do this could expose
the Council to judicial review.
Monitoring is continued for particulates (PM10) and nitrogen
dioxide at other locations in the Vale.
No detailed assessments are required in respect of the pollutants
carbon monoxide, benzene, 1.3-butadiene, lead, sulphur dioxide and
particulates since the National Air Quality Objectives are unlikely
to be exceeded.
A detailed Air Quality Assessment should be carried out in respect
of nitrogen dioxide in the Cogan/Merrie Harrier area if any of the
following conditions exist :
- there is no apparent change in congestion
levels along Windsor Road
- the nitrogen dioxide period average remains
high
- there are a large number of exceedances of
the 1 hour mean (greater
than 18 times per year)
- sufficient time (3 months) has elapsed
following completion of the works at Barons Court."
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED -
(1) T H A T the review and
assessment of Air Quality Round 2 Update and Screening 2006 for
consultation until 28th February, 2007 be approved.
(2) T H A T Sulphur Dioxide
monitoring be continued in the vicinity of Aberthaw Power Station
and the outcome be reported to Cabinet within six months.
(3) T H A T a detailed air
quality assessment be carried out in respect of Nitrogen Dioxide in
the Cogan / Merrie Harrier area should any of the following
conditions exist:
the nitrogen dioxide period average remains high
there were large number exceedances of the 1 hour mean (greater
than 18 times per year)
sufficient time has elapsed following completion of the works at
Barons Court
there be no apparent change in congestion levels along Windsor
Road.
Reasons for decisions
(1) To comply with statutory
requirements.
(2&3) To ensure the National Air Quality Objectives
are not exceeded and to protect public health.
C2816
CAR ALLOWANCES FOR STAFF (CMT) (SCRUTINY - CORPORATE RESOURCES)
-
Cabinet considered a proposal to terminate formally the existing
car allowance scheme, to phase out the existing scheme and to
introduce a new flat rate mileage allowance for all staff
irrespective of grade or role.
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED - T H A T the item be deferred pending further
consultation with the Joint Consultative Forum.
C2817
MATTERS WHICH THE CHAIRMAN HAD DECIDED WERE URGENT -
RESOLVED - T H AT the following matters which the Chairman had
decided were urgent for the reason stated be considered.
C2818
VALE OF GLAMORGAN LOCAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (LDP) - DRAFT
SUSTAINABILITY APPRAISAL SCOPING REPORT (DEER) (SCRUTINY - ECONOMY
AND ENVIRONMENT) -
Urgent by reason of the need to ensure the Council's LDP
is prepared in accordance with the timetable set out in the
approved delivery agreement
The report advised Cabinet of works that had been undertaken in
respect of the Sustainability Appraisal (SA) of the LDP and sought
approval of the draft Sustainability Appraisal Scoping report for
public consultation in February / March 2007. Members were
advised that copies of the draft SA Scoping report were available
in the Members Room, Cabinet Room and Group Rooms. In
accordance with the Environmental Assessment of Plans and
Programmes (Wales) Regulations 2004, the LDP must be subjected to
strategic environmental assessments. The WAG guidance
recommended that that be carried out as part of a sustainability
appraisal of the Plan so that environmental impacts were considered
alongside social and economic impacts. The Council had
employed specialist consultants "Hyder Consulting" who had assisted
and provided expert advice in respect of the SA.
The first stage of the process was to prepare a scoping report
which was now completed in draft for public consultation.
This was a matter for Executive decision.
RESOLVED - T H A T the views of the Planning Committee and
Scrutiny Committee (Economy and Environment) be sought on the
following:
(1) That the draft
Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report be approved for a 5-week
writt