Agenda, decisions and minutes

Councillors are requested to declare any interests on items included in this agenda. Please refer to the workflow on the preceding page for guidance.

Declarations received will be reported at the meeting.

There were no declarations of interest made on this occasion.

Also in attendance in the room: Cllr D’orton Gibson, Cllr Phipps, Cllr Rice, Cllr Chapmanlaw, Cllr Farquhar

Also in attendance online: Cllr Sharon Carr-Brown

Cllr Bartlett

Cllr Armstrong

To confirm and sign as a correct record the minutes of the Meeting held on 22 November 2023.

The Minutes of the meeting held on 22 November 2023 were confirmed and signed a correct record.

To receive any public questions, statements or petitions submitted in accordance with the Constitution. Further information on the requirements for submitting these is available to view at the following link:-

https://democracy.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/ieListMeetings.aspx?CommitteeID=151&Info=1&bcr=1

The deadline for the submission of public questions is 12 noon, 3 clear working days before the meeting.

The deadline for the submission of a statement is midday the working day before the meeting.

The deadline for the submission of a petition is 10 working days before the meeting.

Cabinet was advised that there had been no petitions submitted but that two questions and one statement had been received by members of the public, all relating to Agenda Item 8 (Consultation on the Draft BCP Local Plan and the Draft BCP CIL Charging Schedule).

Public Question received from Conor O’Luby

"The draft Local Plan appears ambitious in tackling the climate emergency, putting environmental and sustainable transport priorities at its heart. Seeking to protect the footprint of the discredited A338-Wessex Fields flyover, a scheme which will massively promote car use clearly suggests 'greenwashing', however. Will the Cabinet commit to removing 'g.' at Policy E5?" 

Response by the Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places

Proposed Policy E5 Wessex Fields criterion (g) as currently drafted in the BCP Local Plan requires any development of the Wessex Fields site to safeguard the footprint of approved grade separated junction on the Wessex Way. 

The current administration is clear that a flyover is not to be pursued.  

However it is sensible to protect the land from being built upon and safeguard it for possible future highway purposes.  

There are highways solutions within the safeguarded land that could be explored to open up the Wessex Fields site for employment opportunities which could improve the current situation on the heavily congested Castle Lane East. 

Various options will need to be explored, but it does not mean that the Council has to use them. Safeguarding the land protects our ability to explore these options. 

To show our commitment to explore all options we propose altering the criterion to state ‘safeguard land adjacent to the A338 for highways purposes’, removing any reference to a grade separated junction.  

Public Question from Soo Chapman (Read out by Democratic Services)

The King, the Pope, global scientists, the IEA, the UN? & numerous authoritative bodies, advise humanity to avoid triggering climate collapse and the imminent loss of all we love. 

Yet escalating carbonic destruction, with its grave implications for harvests and conflict, is underplayed by BCP whose climate guru's serious 89 page alert of 2022 is invisible. 

The hopeless inadequacy of governmental policies is now being exposed and citizens need assurances that proper plans for collective well-being are in place as we raise ambition for a healthy, restored biosphere.?? 

In line with the Nolan principles of honesty and transparency please can Cabinet assure the public concerned for the welfare of the #Fridays4Future generation that anachronistic policy E5 subsection g is struck out and that the government's Sixth Carbon Budget is published widely as a matter of public literacy and safety?? 

Response by the Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places

In response to that question, the first part of the question is exactly the same as the previous question so I don’t intend to read that out again. But in terms of the second part I don’t believe that it is the Councils responsibility to publish the governments sixth carbon budget, that is something that is  ...  view the full minutes text for item 64.

To consider recommendations from the Overview and Scrutiny committees on items not otherwise included on the Cabinet Agenda.

Cabinet was advised that there were no additional recommendations from the Overview and Scrutiny Committees on items not otherwise indicated on the Cabinet agenda on this occasion.

This report presents:

·     Progress towards delivering a legally balanced budget for 2024/25.

·     The latest medium-term financial plan (MTFP) of the council as updated for any identified implications of the governments Autumn Statement.

·     In the first instance, that Cabinet has significantly completed the work to balance the 2024/25 revenue budget based on the £12m funding gap set out in the November report. However, predominately due to the higher than assumed National Living Wage announcement by Government that council needs to find an extra £6m to now close the gap.

In addition, the report proposes not to change the Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTSS) for 2024/25 and therefore the council will continue to operate the same scheme that it has operated since April 2019.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)           acknowledges the further progress towards delivering a sustainable balanced budget for 2024/25;

(b)          endorses the updated MTFP position; and

(c)           approve the continuation of the current Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTSS) into 2024/25.

RECOMMENDED that Council: -

(d)           Further to Councils decision on 12 July 2022 to apply a council tax premium to second homes and an empty homes premium, to approve the formal determination as required by the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

To comply with accounting codes of practice and best practice which requires councils to have a rolling multi-year medium term financial plan.

To present the further progress towards delivering a balanced budget for 2024/25 and the latest high-level overview of the medium-term financial plan.

To ensure a prudent approach to financial management based on traditional local government financial management processes.

To present ongoing progress against the Best Value Notice requirement to establish a sound budget setting process and begin preparation for the 2024/25 budget as soon as possible and draft a sustainable MTFP and three-year budget by the end of September 2023.

To present for Council consideration the formal determination in support of the previous decision to apply a council tax premium to second homes.

The Portfolio Holder for Finance presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'A' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the report presented:

·     Progress towards delivering a legally balanced budget for 2024/25.

·     The latest medium-term financial plan (MTFP) of the council as updated for any identified implications of the governments Autumn Statement.

Cabinet was advised that in the first instance, Cabinet had significantly completed the work to balance the 2024/25 revenue budget based on the £12m funding gap set out in the November report, however, predominately due to the higher than assumed National Living Wage announcement by Government that council needs to find an extra £6m to now close the gap.

In addition, Cabinet was advised that the report proposes not to change the Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTSS) for 2024/25 and therefore the council will continue to operate the same scheme that it has operated since April 2019.

Councillor Canavan addressed the Cabinet requesting that Cabinet reconsiders the cuts and stressed that he couldn’t support redundancies.

Cabinet highlighted that there had been lots of meetings taking place reviewing areas where savings could be made, and that investments will be made where it is right to invest and consultation will take place on areas where changes can be made enabling choices where there can be meaningful choices made.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

a)             acknowledges the further progress towards delivering a sustainable balanced budget for 2024/25;

b)            endorses the updated MTFP position; and

c)             approve the continuation of the current Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTSS) into 2024/25.

RECOMMENDED that Council: -

d)             Further to Councils decision on 12 July 2022 to apply a council tax premium to second homes and an empty homes premium, to approve the formal determination as required by the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

To comply with accounting codes of practice and best practice which requires councils to have a rolling multi-year medium term financial plan.

To present the further progress towards delivering a balanced budget for 2024/25 and the latest high-level overview of the medium-term financial plan.

To ensure a prudent approach to financial management based on traditional local government financial management processes.

To present ongoing progress against the Best Value Notice requirement to establish a sound budget setting process and begin preparation for the 2024/25 budget as soon as possible and draft a sustainable MTFP and three-year budget by the end of September 2023.

To present for Council consideration the formal determination in support of the previous decision to apply a council tax premium to second homes.

A new vision for the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area has been developed with Cabinet Members and senior leaders, following a change in administration after local elections in May 2023.

The new vision, referred to as the Corporate Strategy, replaces the Big Plan and previous Corporate Strategy, setting a single set of key priorities and ambitions for the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area. Both the people and place agendas are balanced, and  commitments are made to sustainability, equality and diversity.

A draft high level summary of a new Corporate Strategy was the subject of wider engagement and consultation with residents and stakeholders, giving the opportunity to influence the Council’s priorities prior to adoption.

On the whole there was support for the themes identified and feedback has been taken on board, with a revised version presented in Appendix 2 for recommendation for adoption. A summary of the findings from the consultation programme are detailed in Appendix 1.

The Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'B' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the Corporate Strategy for BCP Council is a vital strategic document that identifies the vision, key ambitions and priorities for the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area for at least the next four years, and that it also demonstrated the Council’s commitments to sustainability, equality and diversity.

Cabinet was informed that the Corporate Strategy simplifies the strategic framework of the Council, helping to re-stablish the direct linkbetween the budget and maintain the Council’s focus on the key priorities for delivery, and that in addition the Corporate Strategy creates a vital component for policy development, service planning and performance management, enhancing good governance and transparency in decision-making.

Cabinet was advised that a new vision for the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area had been developed with Cabinet Members and senior leaders, following a change in administration after local elections in May 2023, and that the new vision, referred to as the Corporate Strategy, replaces the Big Plan and previous Corporate Strategy, setting a single set of key priorities and ambitions for the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area where both the people and place agendas are balanced, and  commitments are made to sustainability, equality and diversity.

Cabinet was informed that a draft high level summary of a new Corporate Strategy was the subject of wider engagement and consultation with residents and stakeholders, giving the opportunity to influence the Council’s priorities prior to adoption, and that on the whole there was support for the themes identified and feedback had been taken on board, with a revised version presented in Appendix 2 for recommendation for adoption, and a summary of the findings from the consultation programme detailed in Appendix 1.

Cabinet expressed thanks to the officers for their work on the roadshows and the valuable engagement.

It is RECOMMENDED that Council: -

(a)            Notes the consultation report, summarising feedback from residents and stakeholders;

(b)           Recommends the revised Corporate Strategy High level Summary for adoption by Council

(c)            Recommends to Council that the Corporate Strategy and supporting Performance Management Framework continues to be aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Purpose Goals.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places

Reason

The Corporate Strategy for BCP Council is a vital strategic document that identifies the vision, key ambitions and priorities for the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area for at least the next four years. It also demonstrated the Council’s commitments to sustainability, equality and diversity.

It will simplify the strategic framework of the Council, helping to re-establish the direct link between the budget and maintain the Council’s focus on the key priorities for delivery.

In addition the Corporate Strategy creates a vital component for policy development, service planning and performance management, enhancing good governance and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 67.

The Draft BCP Local Plan sets out a vision, objectives and spatial strategy to protect and enhance the environment whilst addressing the needs for new homes, jobs and infrastructure until 2039. A range of policies and site allocations are included which will inform planning decisions once the BCP Local Plan is adopted.

The Draft Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Charging Schedule sets out the charge per square metre new development must pay to fund supporting infrastructure.

A six-week consultation is required on both documents before all feedback and evidence is submitted to the Secretary of State for examination.

The Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'C' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the Draft BCP Local Plan set out a vision, objectives and spatial strategy to protect and enhance the environment whilst addressing the needs for new homes, jobs and infrastructure until 2039, and that a range of policies and site allocations are included which will inform planning decisions once the BCP Local Plan is adopted.

Cabinet was informed that the Draft Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Charging Schedule set out the charge per square metre new development must pay to fund supporting infrastructure, and that a six-week consultation is required on both documents before all feedback and evidence is submitted to the Secretary of State for examination.

Whilst presenting the report the Leader advised that the wording had been strengthened around zero carbon homes.

The Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Board addressed the Cabinet highlighting the comprehensive discussion which had taken place on this item at the recent meeting of the Board and thanked the Lead Member for Strategic Planning for attending and answering the Boards questions. In relation to this Cabinet was advised that the following recommendations had been made at the meeting of the Board:

The Overview and Scrutiny Board agreed the following recommendations to Cabinet on this item:

1. That Policy NE3 1b of the Local Plan should be amended to indicate that offsite biodiversity measures should only be used as a last resort as the current wording is not in the spirit of government legislation.
2. That the wording within the local plan be strengthened to indicate that the Poole Stadium Site be retained for community, leisure use including its existing function as a stadium.
3. That Cabinet consider whether wording could be added under the Transport Strategy, section on parking of the Local Plan, to the effect that although developers were not required to provide parking on town centre developments, they should be able to show that there is no adverse impact from residents bringing cars to these sites if no parking is provided.
4. That Cabinet reconsiders the affordable housing policy to develop a new proposal which is completely consistent and will deliver affordable housing from Town Centre Developments.

In addition the recommendations above the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Board advised that along with the above recommendations which were supported there had also been four other recommendations which had been proposed but not supported although the voting was close, these being:-

• Removal of the travellers site
• Removal of Talbot Village Site as employment land
• Zero Carbon Homes

·      Removal of retention of the access junction of Wessex Fields

In addition the Chairman of the Board advised that at their recent meeting the Board had supported the recommendations as set out in the report with the exception of (d) which was felt to be unclear,  ...  view the full minutes text for item 68.

This report provides information on how the council meets its responsibilities in ensuring that all council housing within the Housing Revenue Account is managed in a way that meets compliance with current health and safety legislation, best practice and regulatory standards to ensure the health and safety of residents. It also sets out issues concerning compliance and demonstrates how these are being managed.

The report provides performance information to the end of quarter 2, 2023/24. There are no significant issues of non-compliance to report.

There are increased responsibilities placed on social landlords to manage the health and safety of residents primarily included in the Building Safety Act 2022 although many of its provisions require further secondary legislation.

With the creation of BCP Homes, work has commenced to align policies and procedures regarding property compliance.

Changes have also been made to the regulatory regime overseen by the Regulator of Social Housing through the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023. New national Tenant Satisfaction Measures are reported on since April 2023 which include those relating to maintaining building safety.

A BCP Homes Advisory Board is in place to support the work of the new BCP Homes service and the Portfolio Holder for People and Homes. The Board, consisting of independent, resident and councillor members will provide an additional element of oversight and assurance around many areas including property compliance.

RESOLVED that: -

(a)           Cabinet notes the compliance information provided which details how the council is performing against statutory building compliance relating to its council housing; and

(b)           a performance report be made annually to Cabinet in future years.

Voting: Unanimous/

Portfolio Holder: Housing and Regulatory Services

Reason

The council, as a landlord, has many legal obligations it must satisfy to ensure the health, safety and welfare of its tenants and leaseholders. It must also adhere to the regulatory standards as set out by the Regulator of Social Housing, particularly the Home Standard.

Councillors should also have oversight and assurance of compliance against the legal and regulatory requirements that are placed upon it through this annual report to Cabinet.

The Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'D' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the report provided information on how the council meets its responsibilities in ensuring that all council housing within the Housing Revenue Account is managed in a way that meets compliance with current health and safety legislation, best practice and regulatory standards to ensure the health and safety of residents and also sets out issues concerning compliance and demonstrates how these are being managed.

In addition Cabinet was informed that the report provided performance information to the end of quarter 2, 2023/24 with there being no significant issues of non-compliance to report.

Cabinet was informed that there are increased responsibilities placed on social landlords to manage the health and safety of residents primarily included in the Building Safety Act 2022 although many of its provisions require further secondary legislation.

Cabinet was advised that wth the creation of BCP Homes, work has commenced to align policies and procedures regarding property compliance, and that changes have also been made to the regulatory regime overseen by the Regulator of Social Housing through the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023, and New national Tenant Satisfaction Measures are reported on since April 2023 which include those relating to maintaining building safety.

Cabinet was informed that a BCP Homes Advisory Board is in place to support the work of the new BCP Homes service and the Portfolio Holder for People and Homes, and the Board, consisting of independent, resident and councillor members will provide an additional element of oversight and assurance around many areas including property compliance.

RESOLVED that: -

(a)           Cabinet notes the compliance information provided which details how the council is performing against statutory building compliance relating to its council housing; and

(b)           a performance report be made annually to Cabinet in future years.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Housing and Regulatory Services

Reason

The council, as a landlord, has many legal obligations it must satisfy to ensure the health, safety and welfare of its tenants and leaseholders. It must also adhere to the regulatory standards as set out by the Regulator of Social Housing, particularly the Home Standard.

Councillors should also have oversight and assurance of compliance against the legal and regulatory requirements that are placed upon it through this annual report to Cabinet.

This report makes recommendations regarding the progression of BCP Councils direct delivery housing response through CNHAS,

1.     its drive towards the People & Communities key objective of “ensuring everybody can live in good quality, sustainable and affordable homes”

2.     the pressing challenges posed by Homelessness and our robust acquisition & development response.

3.     the social rent preference where possible in lieu of affordable rent - Hillbourne housing project leading the way!.

The report highlights 5 ‘critical aspects’ for this progression:

·    Key projects - 7 major Housing projects to be achieved (some completed but all to have started construction works) by 2028, refer para-2.1.

·    Key Construction & planning commitments - those schemes either currently being built, have yet to be contractually committed to or be submitted for planning approval.

·    Key partnerships - Homes England, DLUHC (department of Levelling up Housing & Communities), Royal Foundation & various development & construction parties!

·    Key Context – new Local Plan, 5-year BCP Council Housing Strategy - including Homelessness and the significant Temporary/move -on accommodation response needed – all led by the Housing Delivery service within the newly created directorate of Investment & Development.

Key Successes – safe, sustainable homes & learning from Completed schemes and acquisition programmes.

The Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'E' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the report made recommendations regarding the progression of BCP Councils direct delivery housing response through CNHAS,

1.    its drive towards the People & Communities key objective of “ensuring everybody can live in good quality, sustainable and affordable homes”

2.    the pressing challenges posed by Homelessness and our robust acquisition & development response.

3.    the social rent preference where possible in lieu of affordable rent - Hillbourne housing project leading the way!.

And that the report highlighted 5 ‘critical aspects’ for this progression:

·    Key projects - 7 major Housing projects to be achieved (some completed but all to have started construction works) by 2028, refer para-2.1.

·    Key Construction & planning commitments - those schemes either currently being built, have yet to be contractually committed to or be submitted for planning approval.

·    Key partnerships - Homes England, DLUHC (department of Levelling up Housing & Communities), Royal Foundation & various development & construction parties!

·    Key Context – new Local Plan, 5-year BCP Council Housing Strategy - including Homelessness and the significant Temporary/move -on accommodation response needed – all led by the Housing Delivery service within the newly created directorate of Investment & Development.

·    Key Successes – safe, sustainable homes & learning from Completed schemes and acquisition programmes.

In presenting and proposing the report the Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services expressed thanks to Nigel Ingram who had recently left the council for all his hard work and pivotal role in building the Housing Delivery team and the CNHAS programme.

RECOMMENDED that Council approve: -

(a)           A revised capital budget (Total scheme Cost) of £33,360,000 for the Hillbourne Housing project, previously approved in 2018 and in April 2022, for 110 homes;

                        i.         Awarding the build works for the 110 home Hillbourne housing project and satisfying outstanding planning conditions etc, to Wates Residential in the sum provided in the confidential section of this report.

                       ii.         The delegation to the relevant Service Director, in consultation with the Chief Finance Officer of the authority to enter into the Contracts for build works with Wates Residential, provided that all key parameters (including delivery within the approve capital budget) are met.

                     iii.         Resolves that the Council as local housing authority appropriates the land shown edged red on the plan annexed at Appendix 7 for housing purposes pursuant to section 19 of the Housing Act 1985. The transfer of land shown edged red on the plan annexed at Appendix 7 from the General Fund to the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) to enable the development of the affordable housing.

(b)           BCP Council execute the Deed of Variation to the Homes England Agreement entitled Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council (5069) - AHP 21 - 26 Grant Agreement (LA), previously approved at September 2022 Cabinet & Council meetings; and

(c)           BCP Council execute the Grant Agreement (Local Authority) in  ...  view the full minutes text for item 70.

This report provides an update on the progress of the Children’s Building Stronger Foundations (BSF) Programme. The programme is coordinating the action needed to sustain and accelerate the required improvements in children’s services, namely the achievement of recurrent savings and to safely and appropriately manage and reduce the demand for statutory services. The report notes good progress made and proposes a detailed business case for a new service delivery model for children’s services.

The proposed new model will bring together many services and support for children and families into locality arrangements, with two integrated locality teams within natural communities across the area.  It will enable delivery of savings of £2.9m in 2024/25 growing to £5.3m per year by 2026/27, as well as securing current performance levels, improve impact and outcomes for children and young people, and create capacity to seek continuing improvement.

The model will enable the service to respond to the changing children’s service agenda and be flexible enough to deal with un-predicted changes thereby building in system resilience. It will support the delivery of an early intervention culture, assisting children’s needs to be identified and met at early stages of concern to reduce the demands on statutory social care services.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)            Noted the progress made with the Children’s Services Transformation Programme and delivery of savings; and

(b)           Approves a business case for the full implementation of a new children’s service delivery model by 1 October 2024 to meet the strategic and operational requirements of the service and the Council, and to achieve financial efficiencies and savings enabled by investment approved in July 2023.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Children’s Services

Reason

The investment will enable improved outcomes for children and young people in BCP, and the more effective and efficient services which are needed to secure an improved Ofsted rating. In turn, this will contribute to the achievement of c. £5.3m in annual financial savings within the current MTFP cycle.

The Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'F' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the report provided an update on the progress of the Children’s Building Stronger Foundations (BSF) Programme, and that the programme is coordinating the action needed to sustain and accelerate the required improvements in children’s services, namely the achievement of recurrent savings and to safely and appropriately manage and reduce the demand for statutory services.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that the report noted good progress made and proposes a detailed business case for a new service delivery model for children’s services.

Cabinet was advised that the proposed new model will bring together many services and support for children and families into locality arrangements, with two integrated locality teams within natural communities across the area, and that it will enable delivery of savings of £2.9m in 2024/25 growing to £5.3m per year by 2026/27, as well as securing current performance levels, improve impact and outcomes for children and young people, and create capacity to seek continuing improvement.

Further to this Cabinet was advised that the model will enable the service to respond to the changing children’s service agenda and be flexible enough to deal with un-predicted changes thereby building in system resilience, and that it will support the delivery of an early intervention culture, assisting children’s needs to be identified and met at early stages of concern to reduce the demands on statutory social care services.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)            Noted the progress made with the Children’s Services Transformation Programme and delivery of savings; and

(b)           Approves a business case for the full implementation of a new children’s service delivery model by 1 October 2024 to meet the strategic and operational requirements of the service and the Council, and to achieve financial efficiencies and savings enabled by investment approved in July 2023.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Children’s Services

Reason

The investment will enable improved outcomes for children and young people in BCP, and the more effective and efficient services which are needed to secure an improved Ofsted rating. In turn, this will contribute to the achievement of c. £5.3m in annual financial savings within the current MTFP cycle.

The purpose of this report is to present the outputs from public engagement for a BCP Public Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy (PEVIS) to 2030 and to seek approval to adopt it.

The BCP PEVIS has been developed in line with the guidance for the Department for Transport (DfT) Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund.  The council has been indicatively allocated £1.447m of LEVI funding subject to successful submission of a full business case that should include a PEVIS.

The report also seeks approval to accept the LEVI grant (subject to award) and to invest it in accordance with the BCP PEVIS which aims to increase accessibility to electric vehicle (EV) chargers in residential areas.  The purpose of seeking approval to accept the grant before final award is to accelerate delivery if/when the LEVI award is confirmed which is expected to be in January 2024. 

The BCP PEVIS is aligned with the emerging new Corporate Strategy and the Council Climate Action Strategy 2023 to 2028.

The Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'G' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the purpose of the report was to present the outputs from public engagement for a BCP Public Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy (PEVIS) to 2030 and to seek approval to adopt it.

Cabinet was informed that the BCP PEVIS has been developed in line with the guidance for the Department for Transport (DfT) Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund.  The council has been indicatively allocated £1.447m of LEVI funding subject to successful submission of a full business case that should include a PEVIS.

In addition Cabinet was advised that the report also sought approval to accept the LEVI grant (subject to award) and to invest it in accordance with the BCP PEVIS which aims to increase accessibility to electric vehicle (EV) chargers in residential areas, and that the purpose of seeking approval to accept the grant before final award is to accelerate delivery if/when the LEVI award is confirmed which is expected to be in January 2024. 

Cabinet was informed that the BCP PEVIS is aligned with the emerging new Corporate Strategy and the Council Climate Action Strategy 2023 to 2028.

Councillor Chapmanlaw addressed the Cabinet stressing the importance of delivering on this.

RECOMMENDED that Council: -

(a)           adopts the BCP Public Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (PEVIS) Strategy to 2030;

(b)            accepts the £1.447m Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) capital funding from the Department for Transport Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (subject to confirmation of award); and

(c)           delegates delivery of the LEVI programme to the Service Director for Infrastructure in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Climate Response, Environment and Energy

Reason

The investment of the LEVI funding (subject to confirmation) in accordance with the PEVIS Strategy would be aligned with the Council’s emerging new Corporate Strategy and the Climate Action Strategy 2023 to 2028.

To consider the representations received following the advertisement of the Traffic Order and to approve the making and sealing of the Order.

This will enable the implementation of a new loading bay, replacing a disabled bay, in Albert Road, Bournemouth.

RESOLVED that: -

Cabinet approves the Traffic Regulation Order for the loading bay in Albert Road as advertised, and the withdrawal of the proposed disabled bay in Richmond Hill.

This will enable the order to be made, sealed and to install the restrictions which are outlined in this report and appendices.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holders: Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places

Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities

Climate Response, Environment & Energy

Reason

There are continued issues for daytime deliveries to local businesses and residential properties in Albert Road located in Bournemouth town centre.

The installation of the proposed loading bay will enable safe deliveries and help to keep the turning head clear which is used to access a substation, hairdressers, flats and associated bin and bike stores.

Following review of the objections it is recommended to withdraw the proposed disabled bay replacement in Richmond Hill. There are existing disabled bays locally in Post Office Road along with single and double yellow lines in in the area that blue badge holders can use for a period of up to 3 hours. The existing on-street pay and display bays in Richmond Hill can also be used for free as per the blue badge scheme.

In taking this decision regard has been made to the council’s duty under section 122 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 which states that local authorities ‘secure the expeditious, convenient, and safe movement of vehicular and other traffic (including pedestrians).

The Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'G' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet were requested to consider the representations received following the advertisement of the Traffic Order and to approve the making and sealing of the Order to enable the implementation of a new loading bay, replacing a disabled bay, in Albert Road, Bournemouth.

RESOLVED that: -

Cabinet approves the Traffic Regulation Order for the loading bay in Albert Road as advertised, and the withdrawal of the proposed disabled bay in Richmond Hill.

This will enable the order to be made, sealed and to install the restrictions which are outlined in this report and appendices.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holders: Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places

Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities

Climate Response, Environment & Energy

Reason

There are continued issues for daytime deliveries to local businesses and residential properties in Albert Road located in Bournemouth town centre.

The installation of the proposed loading bay will enable safe deliveries and help to keep the turning head clear which is used to access a substation, hairdressers, flats and associated bin and bike stores.

Following review of the objections it is recommended to withdraw the proposed disabled bay replacement in Richmond Hill. There are existing disabled bays locally in Post Office Road along with single and double yellow lines in in the area that blue badge holders can use for a period of up to 3 hours. The existing on-street pay and display bays in Richmond Hill can also be used for free as per the blue badge scheme.

In taking this decision regard has been made to the council’s duty under section 122 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 which states that local authorities ‘secure the expeditious, convenient, and safe movement of vehicular and other traffic (including pedestrians).

On 27 July 2017 the Council’s Planning Committee approved the development of 324 dwellings on the Canford Paddock site, this was later increased by an additional 45 dwellings to 369 at Planning Committee on 8 March 2022. 

As part of the planning approval the Council secured funding via a Section 106 Agreement (S106 Agreement) to implement Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) throughout the development, for the Highway Authority (The Council) to implement if required.

This report presents the outputs of the statutory TRO consultation and recommends approval of the TROs to implement the changes on the ground in line with the Planning Decision.

RESOLVED to make and seal the Traffic Orders as advertised and implement the restrictions which are outlined in Appendix 1 of this report.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holders: Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places

Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities

Climate Response, Environment & Energy

Reason

The Planning Approval was granted for this development on the basis that the advertised TROs would be implemented if parking problems arose and this was built into the S106 agreement.

There have been more objections than support for the TROs – the main reason for this being that residents advised that they and their visitors would be unable to park.

However, due to the narrow road widths (4.8m) vehicles parking on the carriageway creates an increased threat to life for residents in their homes due to lack of clear access for emergency services.

This would also cause accessibility issues for refuse vehicles leading to missed collections.

This has resulted in vehicles parking across the footway as shown in Appendix 4, causing accessibility and safety concerns for pedestrians, particularly the disabled, elderly and parents using a pushchair/pram. It is therefore recommended to make and seal the TROs as advertised.

In taking this decision regard has been had to the Council’s duty under section 122 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

The Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment & Energy presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'H' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that on 27 July 2017 the Council’s Planning Committee approved the development of 324 dwellings on the Canford Paddock site, this was later increased by an additional 45 dwellings to 369 at Planning Committee on 8 March 2022. 

Cabinet was informed that as part of the planning approval the Council secured funding via a Section 106 Agreement (S106 Agreement) to implement Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) throughout the development, for the Highway Authority (The Council) to implement if required, and that this report presented the outputs of the statutory TRO consultation and recommends approval of the TROs to implement the changes on the ground in line with the Planning Decision.

RESOLVED to make and seal the Traffic Orders as advertised and implement the restrictions which are outlined in Appendix 1 of this report.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holders: Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places

Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities

Climate Response, Environment & Energy

Reason

The Planning Approval was granted for this development on the basis that the advertised TROs would be implemented if parking problems arose and this was built into the S106 agreement.

There have been more objections than support for the TROs – the main reason for this being that residents advised that they and their visitors would be unable to park.

However, due to the narrow road widths (4.8m) vehicles parking on the carriageway creates an increased threat to life for residents in their homes due to lack of clear access for emergency services.

This would also cause accessibility issues for refuse vehicles leading to missed collections.

This has resulted in vehicles parking across the footway as shown in Appendix 4, causing accessibility and safety concerns for pedestrians, particularly the disabled, elderly and parents using a pushchair/pram. It is therefore recommended to make and seal the TROs as advertised.

In taking this decision regard has been had to the Council’s duty under section 122 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

The Chief Executive to report on any decisions taken under urgency provisions in accordance with the Constitution.

The Chief Executive advised that he had taken two urgent decisions in accordance with the Constitution, these being: -

1- Appointment of Director of Law and Governance and Monitoring Officer

2- LEP Integration Template

A copy of the decisions are available to view on the Council’s website.

To consider the latest version of the Cabinet Forward Plan for approval.

The Leader advised that the latest Cabinet Forward Plan had been published on the Council’s website.