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.

Councillors Richard Burton and Millie Earl declared non-pecuniary interests for the purposes of transparency in relation to Minute No. XX (Simpler Recycling Waste Reforms) and remained present for the discussion and voting thereon.

To confirm and sign as a correct record the minutes of the Meeting held on 10 April 2024.

The Minutes of the meeting held on 10 April 2024 were confirmed and signed as 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 mid-day on Thursday 16 May 2024 [mid-day 3 clear working days before the meeting].

The deadline for the submission of a statement is mid-day on Tuesday 21 May 2024 [mid-day the working day before the meeting].

The deadline for the submission of a petition is Wednesday 8 May 2024 [10 working days before the meeting].

The Deputy Leader advised that two questions and 48 statements had been received, and that all public questions and statements would be taken in the order in which they were received.

In relation to this the Deputy Leader advised that owing to the significant number of statements which had been received all relating to Agenda Item 10 (Improvement of the environment in Poole Park through a trial closure of a park entrance to motor traffic) the period allowed for public issues would be extended to 30 minutes, and that further to this the two questions received would be read and answered first, and that the 30-minute time limit would commence once the meeting moved onto the statements received.

Further to this the Deputy Leader advised that any statements remaining at the end of the extended 30-minute time limit would be included in the minutes of the meeting, and that all questions and statements submitted had been circulated the previous day to members of the Cabinet for them to read in advance of the meeting.

Public question relating to Agenda Item 10 – Improvement of the environment in Poole Park through a trial closure of a park entrance to motor traffic

Public Questions received from S Baker

As Poole Park was gifted to the people by Lord Wimborne in the late 1800s;

1.    Is there a legality issue over BCPs approach to closing vehicular access before any consultation even took place?

Poole Park was gifted to the people for the people and when eventually the results of the consultation became available I understand that 63% of the very high number of participants, desired the vehicular entrance to remain open. 

2.    What authority does BCP have to ignore the result of their own consultation in pursuing this undemocratic approach? The people have spoken!

Furthermore, I might add that as a daily user of the park - as a pedestrian and cyclist - I have never seen a single survey being conducted on the number of cars using the car parks, or the number of cars travelling through, effectively using the park as a cut through. 

This should have been carried out before any consultation!

Response by the Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy, Councillor Andy Hadley

On the legality issue the original conveyance in March 1886 of the land which would become Poole Park was to the corporation of Poole, this was and I quote “for the land to be laid out and used as a public park and pleasure gardens for the benefit of the Borough of Poole and the inhabitants thereof” the management of the park from its inception has therefore been a matter for the authority to decide.

Repeated surveys have highlighted that the significant flows of traffic on the carriageways through the park detract from the environment for leisure, the principal purpose of the park. There are five car parking areas with dedicated parking for those with disability and the ability to still use two vehicular  ...  view the full minutes text for item 3.

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.

The Deputy Leader advised that in view of the public interest the order of the agenda would be rejigged and that Agenda Item 10 (Improvement of the environment in Poole Park through a trial closure of a park entrance to motor traffic) would be dealt with first.

From 17 January 2024, BCP Council began a trial 24-hour daily closure to motor vehicles of one entrance / exit point in Poole Park.

On the same day the trial began, BCP Council launched a four-week consultation with the public, to understand the impact of reducing vehicles movements in Poole Park. The consultation results are considered in this report alongside other evidence, the strategic management of the park and the wider impact of a closure.

An Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) on the closure confirmed that on balance there are no significant impacts on protected characteristic groups, including older people and those with disabilities. The public consultation did show that older people and those with a disability were more likely to disagree with the proposal.

The purpose of this report is to assess the strategic management of the environment within Poole Park and to seek a decision as to whether the trial arrangement and road closure shall be adjusted or made permanent.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)    Agrees that the current trial closure, of the Whitecliff entrance and exit point to motor vehicles, is made permanent in Poole Park.

(b)    Agrees that current arrangements are retained, and motor vehicles can still access Poole Park and its facilities.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Environment and Energy

Reasons

·            Supports the BCP Council Corporate Strategy priorities of Sustainable Environment, preserving our natural environment for generations to come, an eco-friendly and active transport network, tackling the climate and ecological emergency, maximising access to our high-quality parks and open spaces.

·            Supports the BCP Green Infrastructure Strategy that seeks to help increase health and well-being outcomes for our communities and visitors, thereby reducing pressures on health and social services; reverse biodiversity loss and nature recovery; strengthen the resilience of people, places and nature to a changing climate and support high quality placemaking.

·            Public Health Dorset supports the proposed change as it enhances Park users’ health and well-being by being in an improved space with reduced vehicle movements, improved feeling of safety in accessing the park and its facilities.

·            This is a strategic improvement of a key destination green space, supporting users from multiple wards, including some in more deprived areas. Follows similar precedent in Bournemouth parks, builds on previous trials and proposals to improve the park’s environment and the work of the 2017-21 Poole Park Life Heritage Fund project.

·            It is recognised that 63% of consultation responses were against the proposal and of those many responses perceived that there are negative effects on older people and those with a disability. The Equalities impact Assessment and independent report by DOTS disability suggest there is no significant impact on any groups with protected characteristics.

·            There has been an extensive review and understanding of the trial closure, the consultation response and supporting information. This report assesses the responses to the survey, their stated impacts against the long-term improvement for the environment of Poole Park and its users.

·            With regards to ‘Active Travel’, a reduction of motor traffic through the park will improve comfort, safety and perception of safety for users of the park who are walking, wheeling, running or cycling for either pleasure or utility.

·            Routes through the park have previously been identified as Key Walking Routes and/or Primary Cycle Routes within the LCWIP, adopted by full Council in 2022 in accordance with central Government policy.

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 'A' to these Minutes in the Minute

Cabinet were advised that from 17 January 2024, BCP Council had begun a trial 24-hour daily closure to motor vehicles of one entrance / exit point in Poole Park, and that on the same day the trial began, BCP Council launched a four-week consultation with the public, to understand the impact of reducing vehicles movements in Poole Park. In relation to this Cabinet was informed that the consultation results are considered in this report alongside other evidence, the strategic management of the park and the wider impact of a closure.

In addition Cabinet was advised that an Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) on the closure confirmed that on balance there are no significant impacts on protected characteristic groups, including older people and those with disabilities but that the public consultation did show that older people and those with a disability were more likely to disagree with the proposal.

Cabinet was advised that the purpose of this report is to assess the strategic management of the environment within Poole Park and to seek a decision as to whether the trial arrangement and road closure shall be adjusted or made permanent.

The Chair of the Environment and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Councillor Chris Rigby addressed the Cabinet advising that the Committee at their recent meeting had scrutinised this report in detail having received representations from a number of members of the public and highlighted the significant amount of public engagement in this item. Further to this the Chair advised that following comprehensive discussion the Committee had resolved to make the following recommendation to the Cabinet for consideration urging that the decision be referred to Full Council for consideration: -

1.    That Cabinet refer the matter to full council for decision.

Voting: For:6, Against:1, Abstentions: 2)

Ward Members addressed the Cabinet advising that there had been a balanced view of local residents both for and against the proposal.

Members addressed the Cabinet raising the following points of discussion: -

·         urging that the recommendation from the Environment and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee be supported and that the decision be referred to full council.

·         A request that the practices and processes for consultation be reviewed.

·         A request to consider the options for timed closures

Members of the Cabinet spoke in support of the proposal and the recommendation highlighting that the park is still accessible for everyone to enjoy, and that the proposal has a positive benefit for the park user. Further to this it was raised that that there is a route still in existence for those who wish to drive through it.

During the discussion Councillor Cox read out Mr Ian Beechings submitted statement (as set out within the public issues) in order to clarify an extract of this statement within earlier discussions.

Cabinet members questioned  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.

BCP Council’s high-level vision, priorities and ambitions were adopted by Council in January 2024.

The ‘A shared vision for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole 2024-28’ is a corporate strategy which sets out the council’s vision, priorities and ambitions as well as the principles which underpin the way the council will work as it develops and delivers its services.

A delivery plan has been incorporated into the strategy, prepared in consultation with Cabinet, directors and council officers, to provide focus areas and measures of progress for achieving the vision, priorities and ambitions. Performance will be monitored and reported in a new dashboard.

This strategy is a key component of a whole council approach to performance management.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)          Approve the delivery plan

(b)          Agree the measures for monitoring progress and ensuring accountability for delivery

(c)          Agree to establishing new governance arrangements for reporting and tracking progress.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Dynamic Places

Reason

A corporate strategy is vital for identifying and gaining visibility of the council’s key priorities. These represent the objectives and outcomes that the council’s performance will be judged against.

The strategy’s objectives are the beginning of a golden thread that links personal, team and service performance to the things that matter most to the organisation and as such will be a vital component of the council’s performance management framework.

The strategy will influence the allocation and distribution of resources ensuring that the organisation commits its limited resources in accordance with its stated priorities.

The Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities 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 BCP Council’s high-level vision, priorities and ambitions were adopted by Council in January 2024, and that ‘A shared vision for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole 2024-28’ is a corporate strategy which sets out the council’s vision, priorities and ambitions as well as the principles which underpin the way the council will work as it develops and delivers its services.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that a delivery plan had been incorporated into the strategy, prepared in consultation with Cabinet, directors and council officers, to provide focus areas and measures of progress for achieving the vision, priorities and ambitions, and that performance will be monitored and reported in a new dashboard.

Cabinet was advised that this strategy was a key component of a whole council approach to performance management.

In presenting the report the Portfolio Holder advised that the updated Appendix 1 which had been published as a supplementary pack picked up the amendments which had been raised at the recent Overview and Scrutiny Board where the report had been discussed.

Comprehensive discussion took place on the item with Cabinet highlighting the importance of delivering this.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)          Approve the delivery plan

(b)          Agree the measures for monitoring progress and ensuring accountability for delivery

(c)          Agree to establishing new governance arrangements for reporting and tracking progress.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Dynamic Places

Reason

A corporate strategy is vital for identifying and gaining visibility of the council’s key priorities. These represent the objectives and outcomes that the council’s performance will be judged against.

The strategy’s objectives are the beginning of a golden thread that links personal, team and service performance to the things that matter most to the organisation and as such will be a vital component of the council’s performance management framework.

The strategy will influence the allocation and distribution of resources ensuring that the organisation commits its limited resources in accordance with its stated priorities.

Following a public consultation and Cabinet approval, a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) was introduced on 01 July 2021 to deal with alcohol related anti-social behaviour.  The order expires on 30 June 2024.

The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 sets out requirements that at any point before expiry, the Council can extend a PSPO by up to three years if it considers it is necessary to prevent the original behaviour from occurring or recurring.

A review of evidence was undertaken which identified the need to consider extending the PSPO for a further 3 years.

A public consultation was undertaken and identified that the majority of respondents said they agreed with the proposal to extend the Alcohol PSPO for a further 3 years.

Extending the Order gives authorised officers the ability to deal with those who are having or likely to have a detrimental impact on those in the locality due to alcohol consumption.

RESOLVED that the BCP Alcohol Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is extended for 3 years from 01 July 2024 with its current prescribed area and conditions remaining the same.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Housing and Regulatory Services

Reason

Following a review of evidence and public consultation it has identified the need to extend the PSPO to prevent the original behaviour from occurring or recurring.

It is proposed that the area and prohibitions remain the same, following review of the evidence base and consultation responses.

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 'C' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that following a public consultation and Cabinet approval, a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) was introduced on 01 July 2021 to deal with alcohol related anti-social behaviour. Cabinet was informed that the order expires on 30 June 2024.

Cabinet was advised that the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 sets out requirements that at any point before expiry, the Council can extend a PSPO by up to three years if it considers it is necessary to prevent the original behaviour from occurring or recurring, and that a review of evidence had been undertaken which had identified the need to consider extending the PSPO for a further 3 years.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that a public consultation had been undertaken which had identified that the majority of respondents said they agreed with the proposal to extend the Alcohol PSPO for a further 3 years.

Cabinet was further advised that extending the Order gives authorised officers the ability to deal with those who are having or likely to have a detrimental impact on those in the locality due to alcohol consumption.

Cabinet members spoke in support of the recommendation and of the importance in dealing with anti-social behaviour.

RESOLVED that the BCP Alcohol Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) is extended for 3 years from 01 July 2024 with its current prescribed area and conditions remaining the same.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Housing and Regulatory Services

Reason

Following a review of evidence and public consultation it has identified the need to extend the PSPO to prevent the original behaviour from occurring or recurring.

It is proposed that the area and prohibitions remain the same, following review of the evidence base and consultation responses.

£7.555 million of grant has been allocated to BCP from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) to obtain accommodation for families with housing needs who have arrived in the UK via Ukrainian and Afghan resettlement and relocation schemes.  This is within the Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF) Funding Round 1 to 3, and part of the CNHAS Temporary Accommodation programme.

To enable the increase of Temporary Accommodation within the CNHAS programme, additional capital is required.  It is proposed to move budget with this CNHAS programme from the provision of Private rent homes (PRS) to temporary accommodation. This will reduce the reliance on Bed and Breakfast requirement within BCP.  In turn this will reduce the growing financial revenue pressure. The 3 housing development schemes included within this report are also for provision of additional homes within the Temporary Accommodation programme.

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 £7.555 million of grant had been allocated to BCP from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) to obtain accommodation for families with housing needs who have arrived in the UK via Ukrainian and Afghan resettlement and relocation schemes, and that this is within the Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF) Funding Round 1 to 3, and part of the CNHAS Temporary Accommodation programme.

Cabinet was informed that to enable the increase of Temporary Accommodation within the CNHAS programme, additional capital is required, and that it is proposed to move budget with this CNHAS programme from the provision of Private rent homes (PRS) to temporary accommodation. In relation to this Cabinet was advised that this will reduce the reliance on Bed and Breakfast requirement within BCP, and in turn this will reduce the growing financial revenue pressure.

Cabinet was advised that the 3 housing development schemes included within this report were also for provision of additional homes within the Temporary Accommodation programme.

Councillor Bartlett addressed the Cabinet highlighting the complexity of the paper encompassing a number of different aspects of housing provision. Further to this Councillor Bartlett raised questions on the following areas: -

• Which schemes would be affected by the transfer of the budget?
• Would this effect the Princess Road Scheme
• Cost of the build for three developments seems very expensive.
• Land cost £25k?

In relation to this the Portfolio Holder advised that in terms of transfer of the budget that it made sense to transfer the budget as we are currently not building private rented sector homes as we are needing to get people out of bed and breakfast and into more settled forms of temporary accommodation that will help their wellbeing. Further to this the portfolio holder advised that the build costs were due in part to quality, market, and the local authority regulations.

Officers addressed the Cabinet to add that the land value is based on an affordable product land value and not a market value providing market homes, in effect a discounted land value which is an accepted modelling method and valuation method. Further to this Officers advised that with regards to the Princess Road site that is a named scheme which is outside of the PRS budget and is outside of this discussion and so that scheme is in addition and so this won’t affect the delivery of Princess Road when this can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED that Council: -

(a)           Approve the transfer of the existing Council New Homes Acquisitions Strategy (CNHAS) Private Rental Scheme (PRS) budget of £36.3m including delegated powers to the temporary accommodation budget (still within Programme 4a of CNHAS) to provide additional affordable homes;

(b)           Approve the Local Authority Housing Fund (LAHF) Round 1, 2 and 3 funding  ...  view the full minutes text for item 8.

Neighbourhood Planning gives local people the opportunity to develop a shared vision for their neighbourhood and shape the development and growth of their local area. BCP Council as the Local Planning Authority has a legal duty to support and advise town/parish councils and neighbourhood forums through the process to prepare neighbourhood plans, following statutory legislation, regulations and procedure.

The Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum is preparing a Neighbourhood Plan, which is at an advanced stage having been through independent examination. The examiner’s report (dated 15 December 2023) has concluded that subject to modifications, it meets basic conditions and legal requirements, and can now proceed to referendum.

Cabinet is asked to accept the findings of the examiner including his recommended modifications; approve the Local Planning Authority’s decision statement; and approve the modified Neighbourhood Plan for referendum on 18 July 2024.

If at referendum there is a majority vote (50% plus 1) in favour of the neighbourhood plan, then the neighbourhood plan will come back to Council to become a ‘Made’ plan for the Sandbanks Peninsula Neighbourhood area and form part of the statutory development plan. It will be used alongside the Poole Local Plan to determine planning applications.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)           Considered each of the recommendations of the examiner which relate to:

                        i.         a number of modifications to the Submission Version Plan (Appendix 1)

                      ii.         that the referendum area should not be extended beyond the designated Neighbourhood Area (Appendix 2)

(b)           Agree with the recommendations by the examiner that the Sandbanks Peninsula Neighbourhood Plan (2023-2033) be modified as defined by the examiner (Appendix 3)

(c)           Agree that the modified Sandbanks Peninsula Neighbourhood Plan proceeds to referendum on 18 July 2024; and

(d)           Approve the Local Planning Authority’s Decision Statement and list of modifications as tabled (Appendix 4).

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Dynamic Places

Reason

To meet the statutory obligations including provisions set out in the from the Localism Act 2011, the Town & Country Planning Act 1990, the Neighbourhood Planning Act 2017, and the Neighbourhood Planning Regulations 2012 (as amended).

The Portfolio Holder for Customer, Communications and Culture 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 neighbourhood planning gives local people the opportunity to develop a shared vision for their neighbourhood and shape the development and growth of their local area, and that BCP Council as the Local Planning Authority has a legal duty to support and advise town/parish councils and neighbourhood forums through the process to prepare neighbourhood plans, following statutory legislation, regulations and procedure.

Cabinet was informed that the Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum is preparing a Neighbourhood Plan, which is at an advanced stage having been through independent examination, and that the examiner’s report (dated 15 December 2023) has concluded that subject to modifications, it meets basic conditions and legal requirements, and can now proceed to referendum.

With regards to this Cabinet was asked to accept the findings of the examiner including his recommended modifications; approve the Local Planning Authority’s decision statement; and approve the modified Neighbourhood Plan for referendum on 18 July 2024.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that if at referendum there is a majority vote (50% plus 1) in favour of the neighbourhood plan, then the neighbourhood plan will come back to Council to become a ‘Made’ plan for the Sandbanks Peninsula Neighbourhood area and form part of the statutory development plan, and that it will be used alongside the Poole Local Plan to determine planning applications.

When presenting the report, the Portfolio Holder highlighted an email received from the Neighbourhood Forum advising that they would be withdrawing the reference made to the Secretary of State concerning the deferral of the Cabinet’s consideration of the plan in April. In addition, the Portfolio Holder advised that the Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum had expressed thanks to officers for their assistance and further to this highlighted that the Neighbourhood Plan had been finalised at the end of January 2024.

Cabinet spoke in support of the report and highlighted the amount of work which goes into the formation of a neighbourhood plan, and of the considerable benefit a neighbourhood plan can have on an area.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)           Considered each of the recommendations of the examiner which relate to:

                        i.         a number of modifications to the Submission Version Plan (Appendix 1)

                      ii.         that the referendum area should not be extended beyond the designated Neighbourhood Area (Appendix 2)

(b)           Agree with the recommendations by the examiner that the Sandbanks Peninsula Neighbourhood Plan (2023-2033) be modified as defined by the examiner (Appendix 3)

(c)           Agree that the modified Sandbanks Peninsula Neighbourhood Plan proceeds to referendum on 18 July 2024; and

(d)           Approve the Local Planning Authority’s Decision Statement and list of modifications as tabled (Appendix 4).

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Dynamic Places

Reason

To meet the statutory obligations including provisions set out in the from the Localism Act 2011, the Town & Country Planning Act  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9.

The Environment Act 2021 requires councils in England to offer every household (including flats) three waste containers for dry recycling, food waste and residual (non-recyclable) waste by 31 March 2026.

Non-municipal properties (i.e. businesses, schools, hospitals) will also be required to make arrangements for separate collections for dry recycling, food waste and residual waste by 31 March 2025.

The recommendations of this report will enable BCP Council to comply with its new legal obligation in the required timescales by: 

a.     enhancing our commercial waste offer to include food waste collections and accommodate extra demand for commercial recycling collections by 31 March 2025.

b.     arrange separate collections for recycling and food waste, where needed from BCP Council’s own buildings and commercial premises.

c.     implementing food waste collections for all households, including flats, from 31 March 2026.

d.     offering recycling collections to all properties, including all flats and town centre properties, by 31 March 2026.

e.     introducing plastic film (plastic bags, wrapping, pouches) for recycling in our kerbside recycling service by 31 March 2027.

RESOLVED that Cabinet approve: -

(a)        the introduction of a BCP-wide commercial food waste collection service, utilising current household collections rounds and vehicles from 31 March 2025;

(b)        the introduction of a fortnightly bagged recycling service, as set out in this report, to all households who cannot accommodate the standard recycling bin service; and

(c)        By 31 March 2027, plastic film (plastic bags, pouches, wrapping) will be recycled in our kerbside recycling service.

It is further recommended that Cabinet recommends to Council: -

(d)        the purchase of six food waste collection vehicles and required food waste containers and bins using £1.53M new burdens funding to support the introduction of food waste collections to Poole and all flats by 31 March 2026 as set out in this report.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder

Reasons

·            To comply with the council’s legal obligations under the Environment Act 2021 to offer every household (including flats) in England three waste containers for dry recycling, food waste and residual (non-recyclable) waste by 31 March 2026.

·            To assist local businesses in complying with their obligation under the Environment Act 2021 by 31 March 2025, and enhance the council’s commercial waste offer and potential income generation, whilst fulfilling BCP Council’s legal obligation to supply this service if requested.

·            To offer flexible, comprehensive and efficient waste collections that engage residents and commercial customers to effectively manage their waste.

·            To offer service parity by introducing food waste collections in Poole and to all flats.

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 'F' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that The Environment Act 2021 required councils in England to offer every household (including flats) three waste containers for dry recycling, food waste and residual (non-recyclable) waste by 31 March 2026.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that Non-municipal properties (i.e. businesses, schools, hospitals) will also be required to make arrangements for separate collections for dry recycling, food waste and residual waste by 31 March 2025.

Further to this Cabinet was advised that the recommendations contained within the report will enable BCP Council to comply with its new legal obligation in the required timescales by: 

a.    enhancing our commercial waste offer to include food waste collections and accommodate extra demand for commercial recycling collections by 31 March 2025.

b.    arrange separate collections for recycling and food waste, where needed from BCP Council’s own buildings and commercial premises.

c.     implementing food waste collections for all households, including flats, from 31 March 2026.

d.    offering recycling collections to all properties, including all flats and town centre properties, by 31 March 2026.

e.     introducing plastic film (plastic bags, wrapping, pouches) for recycling in our kerbside recycling service by 31 March 2027.

Cabinet members spoke in support of the item highlighting the importance of having a consistent approach across the whole of the BCP area.

RESOLVED that Cabinet approve: -

(a)        the introduction of a BCP-wide commercial food waste collection service, utilising current household collections rounds and vehicles from 31 March 2025;

(b)        the introduction of a fortnightly bagged recycling service, as set out in this report, to all households who cannot accommodate the standard recycling bin service; and

(c)         By 31 March 2027, plastic film (plastic bags, pouches, wrapping) will be recycled in our kerbside recycling service.

It is further recommended that Cabinet recommends to Council: -

(d)        the purchase of six food waste collection vehicles and required food waste containers and bins using £1.53M new burdens funding to support the introduction of food waste collections to Poole and all flats by 31 March 2026 as set out in this report.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder

Reasons

·            To comply with the council’s legal obligations under the Environment Act 2021 to offer every household (including flats) in England three waste containers for dry recycling, food waste and residual (non-recyclable) waste by 31 March 2026.

·            To assist local businesses in complying with their obligation under the Environment Act 2021 by 31 March 2025, and enhance the council’s commercial waste offer and potential income generation, whilst fulfilling BCP Council’s legal obligation to supply this service if requested.

·            To offer flexible, comprehensive and efficient waste collections that engage residents and commercial customers to effectively manage their waste.

·            To offer service parity by introducing food waste collections in Poole and to all flats.

Councillor Richard Burton  ...  view the full minutes text for item 10.

Tricuro is a Local Authority Trading Company, wholly owned by the Council delivering adult social care services on its behalf.

This report summarises the 5 year strategic business plan for the company, aligned to the Council’s corporate vision and priorities. and the new shareholder governance arrangements.

RESOLVED that Cabinet approved the Tricuro Strategic Business Plan, a copy of which is attached at Appendix 1.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Health and Wellbeing

Reason

The Tricuro Strategic Business Plan sets out the direction of Tricuro over the next five years, The Council has reserved the right for Cabinet to approve the business plan.

The Portfolio Holder for Transformation and Resources 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 Tricuro is a Local Authority Trading Company, wholly owned by the Council delivering adult social care services on its behalf, and that the report summarises the 5-year strategic business plan for the company, aligned to the Council’s corporate vision and priorities. and the new shareholder governance arrangements.

The Chair of the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Councillor Patrick Canavan addressed the Cabinet in relation to this item advising that it hadn’t yet come to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee but that it would be coming to the Committee in due course. In addition Councillor Canavan highlighted the importance of working in a collaborative way.

Councillor Stephen Bartlett addressed the Cabinet questioning the governance arrangements with Tricuro.

In relation to this the Portfolio Holder advised that these governance arrangements were being reviewed as part of a larger review of arrangements with other bodies like this and that this report would be coming to Cabinet at the July meeting.

RESOLVED that Cabinet approved the Tricuro Strategic Business Plan, a copy of which is attached at Appendix 1.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Health and Wellbeing

Reason

The Tricuro Strategic Business Plan sets out the direction of Tricuro over the next five years, The Council has reserved the right for Cabinet to approve the business plan.

Councillor Kieron Wilson left the meeting at 12:49pm

This report provides an overview of the work to date within the Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND) system, through the newly developed SEND Improvement plan.  It provides a narrative to the improvement work to date within the BCP Council SEND service, the wider SEND system and points towards the significant progress that has been made over the last 6 months. It is recognised though, that much more needs to be done and that a continued effort is needed across the partnership to address the further areas of improvement.

Alongside the operational and strategic improvement work within the SEND system the report also provides information and a short narrative on the progress of the Safety Valve programme and resultant next steps. Discussions are still ongoing with the Department for Education (DfE) and Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities (DLUHC) and as such a revised Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) plan has not yet commenced.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)           Noted the positive progress against the SEND Improvement Plan in the Local Authority’s key statutory processes in particular, our children in BCP Children’s Services this academic year are no longer experiencing delays to the initial assessment and creation of their EHCPs;

(b)           Acknowledges that the new SEND Improvement Board governance structure provides the rigour and transparency required to maintain progress in the SEND system;

(c)          Noted the assumptions within the Safety Valve plan and associated DSG plan are understood and that the Committee notes that BCP are currently in discussions with DfE and DLUHC regarding the financial implications of the High Needs Block budget; and

(d)          Acknowledge that the progression of improvements in SEND is reliant on Health, Education and the Council working together.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Children and Young People

Reason

To ensure that all stakeholders within and across the SEND system are aware of the positive improvements in the SEND system and the future work required regarding the Safety Valve programme and supporting DSG plan.

The Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People 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 the report provided an overview of the work to date within the Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND) system, through the newly developed SEND Improvement plan, and further to this provided a narrative to the improvement work to date within the BCP Council SEND service, the wider SEND system and points towards the significant progress that has been made over the last 6 months.

Cabinet was informed that it is recognised though, that much more needs to be done and that a continued effort is needed across the partnership to address the further areas of improvement.

Cabinet was further advised that alongside the operational and strategic improvement work within the SEND system the report also provided information and a short narrative on the progress of the Safety Valve programme and resultant next steps, and that discussions were still ongoing with the Department for Education (DfE) and Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities (DLUHC) and as such a revised Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) plan has not yet commenced.

Councillor Patrick Canavan addressed the Cabinet expressing thanks to the Portfolio Holder for the reassurance that it can come back to the Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee and further to this requested an update on the Safety Valve.

Cabinet members discussed the report and highlighted the financial implications within it.

The Director for Finance addressed the Cabinet highlighting further the concerns around the financial implications and advising that following the meeting he would be writing to the Director of Finance at DLUHC to seek advice on how we can resolve the issue of the difference between what we are currently spending on SEND services and the government grant available.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)           Noted the positive progress against the SEND Improvement Plan in the Local Authority’s key statutory processes in particular, our children in BCP Children’s Services this academic year are no longer experiencing delays to the initial assessment and creation of their EHCPs;

(b)           Acknowledges that the new SEND Improvement Board governance structure provides the rigour and transparency required to maintain progress in the SEND system;

(c)          Noted the assumptions within the Safety Valve plan and associated DSG plan are understood and that the Committee notes that BCP are currently in discussions with DfE and DLUHC regarding the financial implications of the High Needs Block budget; and

(d)          Acknowledge that the progression of improvements in SEND is reliant on Health, Education and the Council working together.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Children and Young People

Reason

To ensure that all stakeholders within and across the SEND system are aware of the positive improvements in the SEND system and the future work required regarding the Safety Valve programme and supporting DSG plan.

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.

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

Cabinet was advised that no urgent decisions had been taken in accordance with the Constitution since the last meeting of the Cabinet.

The Deputy Leader advised that the following urgent item had been brought to Cabinet in accordance with the Constitution and pursuant to Regulation 11 of the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012 (‘the Regulations’).

In November 2023 the council was informed by the Department for Transport (DfT) it had been allocated £119k of Traffic Signal Obsolescence Grant (TSOG) and that it could apply for a further £500k from the Green Light Fund (GLF) by 18 December 2023.

The council submitted an application to the GLF by the December deadline and in March 2024 the DfT wrote to confirm success and payment of £619k (=£119k TSOG + £500k GLF). 

This paper informs Cabinet of the success and seeks delegation to formally accept and invest the awarded grant in line with the application. 

RECOMMENDED that: -

(a)           Accept the £619,283.37 from the Department for Transport funded Traffic Signal Obsolescence Grant & Green Light Fund; and

(b)           Delegate investment of the Traffic Signal Obsolescence & Green Light Fund grants to the Director for Planning & Transport in consultation with the Chief Finance Officer.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holders: Dynamic Places

                             Climate Emergency

Reason

Financial Regulations require the acceptance of external funding of between £100,000 and £1.0m to be approved by Cabinet in consultation with the Chief Financial Officer.

The grant shall be used to upgrade identified (prioritised) signal assets (crossings and junctions) that are at end of life ensuring that they continue to operate. The upgrades shall result in reduced energy consumption.

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 'I' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that in November 2023 the council was informed by the Department for Transport (DfT) it had been allocated £119k of Traffic Signal Obsolescence Grant (TSOG) and that it could apply for a further £500k from the Green Light Fund (GLF) by 18 December 2023.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that the council submitted an application to the GLF by the December deadline and in March 2024 the DfT wrote to confirm success and payment of £619k (=£119k TSOG + £500k GLF), and that the report informed Cabinet of the success and seeks delegation to formally accept and invest the awarded grant in line with the application.

Cabinet members spoke in support of the report and praised officers for their successful bid.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

a)             Accept the £619,283.37 from the Department for Transport funded Traffic Signal Obsolescence Grant & Green Light Fund; and

b)             Delegate investment of the Traffic Signal Obsolescence & Green Light Fund grants to the Director for Planning & Transport in consultation with the Chief Finance Officer.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holders: Dynamic Places

                             Climate Emergency

Reason

Financial Regulations require the acceptance of external funding of between £100,000 and £1.0m to be approved by Cabinet in consultation with the Chief Financial Officer.

The grant shall be used to upgrade identified (prioritised) signal assets (crossings and junctions) that are at end of life ensuring that they continue to operate. The upgrades shall result in reduced energy consumption.