Agenda, decisions and draft 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.

Councillor Richard Herrett declared a pecuniary interest in Minute No. 34 (Enhancement to Pay and Reward Offer) and left the room for the discussion and voting thereon.

To confirm and sign as a correct record the minutes of the Meeting held on 18 June 2025.

The Minutes of the meeting held on 18 June 2025 were confirmed and signed as a correct record subject to the figure in reason (b) in Minute No. 20 being amended to read £1.89m.

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 10 July 2025 [mid-day 3 clear working days before the meeting].

The deadline for the submission of a statement is mid-day on Tuesday 15 July 2025 [mid-day the working day before the meeting].

The deadline for the submission of a petition is Wednesday 2 July 2025 [10 working days before the meeting].

Cabinet was advised that there had been no petitions, questions or statements submitted by members of the public on this occasion, however Councillor Richard Herrett acknowledged receipt of a letter that he had recently received from the Bournemouth Area Hospitality Association (BAHA) which didn’t meet the constitutional requirements for a statement but had asked the council to renew its approach to tourism in the BCP area.

In relation to this Councillor Herrett advised that he would be setting up a meeting with BAHA to discuss this in the near future.

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 report presents the revenue and capital budget outturn, reserves position, dedicated schools grant outturn, housing revenue account, and results of council company and partner organisations for the financial year 2024/25.

The financial revenue outturn is a £1.2m surplus, an improvement on the reported quarter three balanced position, with this delivered in a challenging budget environment.

In February 2024 Council set a balanced budget and medium-term financial plan over the 4-year period to 31 March 2028 based on conventional local government financial management process. This addressed the inherited £30m structural deficit from using reserves rather than savings to balance the 2023/24 budget.

The non-deliverability of previous year savings was addressed, particularly those expected from the transformation investment. New fully itemised savings of £38m were programmed for 2024/25 with 86% being achieved through service transformation, third party spend reduction, staff savings and raising additional income. Mitigations have been found in other areas to reduce the impact of those unable to be delivered.

The budget recognised the ongoing cost-of-living and service demand pressures that face all local authorities and this required council tax to be increased by the maximum amount permitted by government of 4.99%, with the same increase assumed for future years.

A revised approach was taken to the annual repayment of debt with voluntary contributions made above the statutory minimum to reduce the burden for future years.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)     Noted the final outturn position for 2024/25;

(b)    Agreed to set aside £0.5m in an earmarked reserve to manage the potential risk associated with future income streams from the introduction of the resident card pilot scheme in 2025/26.

(c)     Agree the residual surplus of £0.7m is transferred to unearmarked reserves.

(d)    Agree the capital virements between schemes funded by the bus services improvement plan as set out in appendix C1.

(e)     Note that the museums capital scheme is forecast to exceed the approved resources by £0.55m, alongside a £0.8m shortfall in third party contributions as set out in appendix C3.

(f)      Recommend that Audit and Governance Committee recommend to Council to approve the revised funding strategy for the Poole museums capital schemes which will mean an increase in the approved prudential borrowing of £1.3m as set out in appendix C3.

RECOMMENDED that Council:

Approves the revised funding strategy for the Poole museums capital schemes which subject to Audit and Governance Committee approval will mean an increase in the approved prudential borrowing of £1.3m.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

To comply with accounting codes of practice and best practice which requires councils to regularly monitor the annual budget position and take any action to support the sustainability of the council’s financial position.

To comply with the council’s financial regulations regarding capital virements, acceptance of grants and new borrowing.

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.

The report presents the revenue and capital budget outturn, reserves position, dedicated schools grant outturn, housing revenue account, and results of council company and partner organisations for the financial year 2024/25.

The financial revenue outturn is a £1.2m surplus, an improvement on the reported quarter three balanced position, with this delivered in a challenging budget environment.

In February 2024 Council set a balanced budget and medium-term financial plan over the 4-year period to 31 March 2028 based on conventional local government financial management process. This addressed the inherited £30m structural deficit from using reserves rather than savings to balance the 2023/24 budget.

The non-deliverability of previous year savings was addressed, particularly those expected from the transformation investment. New fully itemised savings of £38m were programmed for 2024/25 with 86% being achieved through service transformation, third party spend reduction, staff savings and raising additional income. Mitigations have been found in other areas to reduce the impact of those unable to be delivered.

The budget recognised the ongoing cost-of-living and service demand pressures that face all local authorities and this required council tax to be increased by the maximum amount permitted by government of 4.99%, with the same increase assumed for future years.

A revised approach was taken to the annual repayment of debt with voluntary contributions made above the statutory minimum to reduce the burden for future years.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)     Noted the final outturn position for 2024/25;

(b)    Agreed to set aside £0.5m in an earmarked reserve to manage the potential risk associated with future income streams from the introduction of the resident card pilot scheme in 2025/26.

(c)     Agree the residual surplus of £0.7m is transferred to unearmarked reserves.

(d)    Agree the capital virements between schemes funded by the bus services improvement plan as set out in appendix C1.

(e)     Note that the museums capital scheme is forecast to exceed the approved resources by £0.55m, alongside a £0.8m shortfall in third party contributions as set out in appendix C3.

(f)      Recommend that Audit and Governance Committee recommend to Council to approve the revised funding strategy for the Poole museums capital schemes which will mean an increase in the approved prudential borrowing of £1.3m as set out in appendix C3.

RECOMMENDED that Council:

Approves the revised funding strategy for the Poole museums capital schemes which subject to Audit and Governance Committee approval will mean an increase in the approved prudential borrowing of £1.3m.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

To comply with accounting codes of practice and best practice which requires councils to regularly monitor the annual budget position and take any action to support the sustainability of the council’s financial position.

To comply with the council’s financial regulations regarding capital virements, acceptance of grants and new borrowing.

In July 2024, BCP Cabinet and Full Council agreed:

1.     To support the business case for a new Adult Social Care (ASC) transformation delivery model to improve outcomes for residents and to achieve financial efficiencies and savings.

2.     Establishment of a formal Adult Social Care four-year transformation programme called Fulfilled Lives, approving in principle a total investment of up to £2.9m across the first three years.

3.     The release of an initial £1.79m was approved for the first year of the programme to facilitate mobilisation, completion of the design and scope stage, and to commence the delivery phase from January 2025.

4.     The Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee would provide regular scrutiny of progress towards benefits and sustainable change.

The programme entered its delivery phase in January 2025 and is making good progress towards implementing the necessary changes to achieve the anticipated benefits, and savings of £3.5m recurring by year four.

This report provides an update on progress with recommendations for investment in the next phase of the programme.

RESOLVED that Cabinet:

(a)           Notes the current work-in-progress with the Adult Social Care Fulfilled Lives Programme; and

RECOMMENDED that Council

(b)          approves the request for the release of the remaining £1.11m funding that was previously agreed to allow the Fulfilled Lives Programme to reach completion and realisation of the benefits.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Health and Wellbeing

Reason

Release of the remaining investment will enable improved outcomes for adults and their families within the BCP Council area due to enhanced person-centred practice, with effective and efficient support that continues to ensure that the Council fulfils its statutory duties despite continuing demographic and economic demand pressures. In totality, the projects that form part of this transformation programme will lead to recurring savings of c.£3.5m

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

Cabinet was advised that in July 2024, BCP Cabinet and Full Council agreed:

1.    To support the business case for a new Adult Social Care (ASC) transformation delivery model to improve outcomes for residents and to achieve financial efficiencies and savings.

2.    Establishment of a formal Adult Social Care four-year transformation programme called Fulfilled Lives, approving in principle a total investment of up to £2.9m across the first three years.

3.    The release of an initial £1.79m was approved for the first year of the programme to facilitate mobilisation, completion of the design and scope stage, and to commence the delivery phase from January 2025.

4.    The Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee would provide regular scrutiny of progress towards benefits and sustainable change.

Cabinet was advised that the programme entered its delivery phase in January 2025 and is making good progress towards implementing the necessary changes to achieve the anticipated benefits, and savings of £3.5m recurring by year four.

In relation to this Cabinet was advised that this report provided an update on progress with recommendations for investment in the next phase of the programme.

The Chair of the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee had addressed the Cabinet advising that at their recent meeting the Committee had discussed the report in detail and had resolved to make the following recommendations: -

The HASC O&S Committee:

1. Supports the recommendation to Cabinet that Council approves the request for the release of the remaining £1.11m funding that was previously agreed to allow the Fulfilled Lives Programme to reach completion and realisation of the benefits; and

2. Continues to monitor this four-year programme in particular around self-directed support and support at home that will enable people to stay independent.

(Agreed Nem. Con.)

The Portfolio Holder thanked the Scrutiny Committee for their level of interest in this.

RESOLVED that Cabinet:

(a)          Notes the current work-in-progress with the Adult Social Care Fulfilled Lives Programme; and

RECOMMENDED that Council

(b)          approves the request for the release of the remaining £1.11m funding that was previously agreed to allow the Fulfilled Lives Programme to reach completion and realisation of the benefits.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Health and Wellbeing

Reason

Release of the remaining investment will enable improved outcomes for adults and their families within the BCP Council area due to enhanced person-centred practice, with effective and efficient support that continues to ensure that the Council fulfils its statutory duties despite continuing demographic and economic demand pressures. In totality, the projects that form part of this transformation programme will lead to recurring savings of c.£3.5m

This report:

·       Aims to ensure the council presents a legally balanced 2026/27 budget. 

·       Presents an update on the 11 June 2025 Spending Review.

·       Provides details of two consultation documents issued on 20 June 2025 namely the Local Government Fair Funding Review and Modernising and Improving the administration of council tax.

·       Presents an update on the MTFP position of the council.

Acknowledges the action of the Leader of the Council and Director of Finance in writing to Government to seek assurance around the council’s ability to continue to cashflow the significant and growing Dedicated Schools Grants deficit within the statutory framework.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)           Endorses the latest position regarding the developing 2026/27 Budget and MTFP position.

(b)           Acknowledges the ongoing progress being made to ensure a balanced budget position for 2026/27 is presented to Council in February 2026.

(c)           In respect of the SEND deficit, note the update and acknowledges the action taken by the Leader and the Director of Finance.

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 provide Cabinet with the latest high-level overview of the 2026/27 Budget and 3-year medium-term financial plan.

To provide an update on the 11 June 2025 Comprehensive Spending Review (SR25) and the consultations documents issued on 20 June in respect of the local government funding formula and the modernisation of council tax.

To acknowledge that the current and growing deficit on the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) as it pertains to the expenditure on Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) service continues to be an existential threat to the financial sustainability of the council.

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 'B' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the report:

·       Aimed to ensure the council presents a legally balanced 2026/27 budget. 

·       Presented an update on the 11 June 2025 Spending Review.

·       Provided details of two consultation documents issued on 20 June 2025 namely the Local Government Fair Funding Review and Modernising and Improving the administration of council tax.

·       Presented an update on the MTFP position of the council; and

·       Acknowledged the action of the Leader of the Council and Director of Finance in writing to Government to seek assurance around the council’s ability to continue to cashflow the significant and growing Dedicated Schools Grants deficit within the statutory framework.

The Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Board, Councillor Kate Salmon addressed the Cabinet advising that at their meeting the previous evening the Board had had a good discussion on this item, particularly around the funding deficit with regards to high needs, and had supported the report and proposed the following recommendation: -

The Overview and Scrutiny Board endorsed the work of Members and Officers around SEND as set out in recommendation C of the report as follows:

In respect of the SEND deficit, note the update and acknowledges the action taken by the Leader and the Director of Finance.

The Portfolio Holder for Finance thanked the Chair and members of the Overview and Scrutiny Board for their discussion and recommendation from the previous evenings meeting.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a)           Endorses the latest position regarding the developing 2026/27 Budget and MTFP position.

(b)          Acknowledges the ongoing progress being made to ensure a balanced budget position for 2026/27 is presented to Council in February 2026.

(c)           In respect of the SEND deficit, note the update and acknowledges the action taken by the Leader and the Director of Finance.

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 provide Cabinet with the latest high-level overview of the 2026/27 Budget and 3-year medium-term financial plan.

To provide an update on the 11 June 2025 Comprehensive Spending Review (SR25) and the consultations documents issued on 20 June in respect of the local government funding formula and the modernisation of council tax.

To acknowledge that the current and growing deficit on the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) as it pertains to the expenditure on Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) service continues to be an existential threat to the financial sustainability of the council.

This report presents the outcome of the market testing in respect of the disposal of Poole Civic Centre.

[PLEASE NOTE: Should the Cabinet wish to discuss the detail of the exempt Appendices at Appendix C1 & C2 it will be necessary to exclude the press and public and move into Confidential (Exempt) session]

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 'C' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the report presented the outcome of the market testing in respect of the disposal of Poole Civic Centre, and that the testing aimed to explore viable options for the site’s future use and determine the best course of action for its disposal.

Cabinet was informed that the recommendation was to sell the freehold of the entire site to MCR Property Group for £5.25 million, and that the offer represented the highest bid received during the market testing process and that it was considered the best value for the Council.

Further to this Cabinet was advised that the sale included provisions for MCR Property Group to enter discussions with the Poole Chartered Trustees or any future Poole Town Council regarding lease terms for a ‘vertical slice’ of the building. In relation to this Cabinet was advised that the vertical slice comprised of specific areas across four floors intended for public use, including the Poole Mayoralty function and potential community and coroner use.

Cabinet was informed that the disposal aligned with the Council’s strategic goals to reduce holding costs, maximise financial returns, and ensure sustainable management of its estate, and that the sale would help offset costs associated with the disposal and contribute to the Council’s broader financial and operational objectives.

Councillor Mark Howell addressed the Cabinet in particular with regards to the vertical slice highlighting the important assets to the heritage of Poole and urging the sale to be without the vertical slice. Councillor Howell indicated that he felt the report was misleading and that it failed to address Councils request to see if the vertical slice could be used by the Community.

Councillor Howell urged Cabinet to wait until the Community Governance process had been completed prior to considering the sale and advised that he felt there had been a lack proper process, and that multiple groups had requested this item be withdrawn.

Within Councillor Howells address to Cabinet Councillor Howell made reference to a complaint he had made regarding senior officers.

The Leader and Chief Executive offered Councillor Howell the opportunity to withdraw personal comments he had made regarding senior officers for which he declined to do.

Councillor Patrick Canavan addressed the Cabinet, firstly distancing himself and his group from the comments made by the previous councillor which he deemed to be wholly unacceptable.

Councillor Canavan advised that he had written to the leader on the 13^th July, and to other Cabinet members also requesting that this item be withdrawn in order to look at options to sell the site without the vertical slice and to retain ownership of the vertical slice.

In relation to this Councillor Canavan sought reassurance that the vertical slice options had been properly considered or could still be considered as part of the ongoing process.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 30.

This report presents the proposal to dispose of the freehold of the former nursery site at Lyndhurst Road to Meyrick Estate for the sum of £850,000.

[PLEASE NOTE: Should the Cabinet wish to discuss the detail of the exempt Appendices at Appendix A & B it will be necessary to exclude the press and public and move into Confidential (Exempt) session]

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 'D' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the report outlined the proposal to dispose of the freehold of the former Roeshot Nursery site at Lyndhurst Road to the Merick Estate for £850,000.

Cabinet was informed that the site was previously used as a plant nursery which was currently largely vacant and that it was considered surplus to the council’s needs.

In relation to this Cabinet was advised that the disposal aligned with the council’s principles for asset management, selling underused or vacant land to reduce holding costs and generate capital receipts.

Cabinet was informed that the proposed sale price was £850,000 which exceeded the independent RICS Red Book valuation, ensuring compliance with Section 123 of the Local Government Act 1972, which requires “best consideration” for asset disposals.

Further to this Cabinet was advised that the sale was recommended on an unconditional basis, meaning there were no specific conditions tied to the transaction, such as planning permissions.

Cabinet was further advised that the Meyrick Estate had expressed interest in acquiring the site under the Crichel Down rules, which provide former owners the first opportunity to repurchase land acquired by compulsory purchase, and that whilst these rules were advisory rather than mandatory that the council had engaged in negotiations with the Meyrick Estate to ensure compliance and avoid potential litigation.

In addition Cabinet was informed that the disposal is part of the council’s broader strategy to manage its portfolio efficiently, reduce costs, and support its Transformation Programme through the Flexible Use of Capital Receipts, and that the recommendation to proceed with the sale reflects the council’s commitment to achieving best value while addressing public feedback supporting the sale of surplus assets.

RECOMMENDED that Council: -

(a)        note the confidential minutes and the recommendations of the Cross-Party Asset Disposal Working Group meeting held on the 13 June 2025.

(b)        Approve the freehold disposal of the whole former nursery site to Meyrick Estate for the sum of £850,000 on an unconditional basis (Option 1) and on such terms to be approved by the Chief Financial Officer, also acting in his capacity as Corporate Property Officer, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

To obtain approval for the disposal of the former nursery site at Lyndhurst Road.

As a Registered Provider (RP) of Social Housing, BCP Council has increased responsibilities under the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023.

The Act provides greater powers, including inspections, to the Regulator of Social Housing to ensure that the outcomes for tenants as set out in revised regulatory consumer standards are delivered. It also ensures that tenant satisfaction is measured and reported annually through Tenant Satisfaction Measures, enabling tenants to see how well the council as their landlord is performing against other landlords who are also registered providers.

For many of the measures the council is within or near to the top quartile of performance especially those related to repairs and maintenance. For 2024/25 overall satisfaction has increased to 81.2 per cent.

The Housing Ombudsman has also been given enhanced powers through the Act to ensure that tenants have access to an effective complaints process when things go wrong and that landlords are held to account. Landlords have a legal duty to meet the standards set out in the Ombudsman’s Complaint Handling Code which sets out best practice in effective complaint handling.

The Act also sets out qualification requirements for senior housing managers to bring the profession more in line with others such as social workers and teachers.

Other provisions within the Act ensured a review of the Decent Homes Standard and the introduction of Awaab’s law to compel landlords to address damp and mould in their homes.

Ensuring compliance with the requirements of the Act is challenging. This report sets out the council’s responsibilities and progress in meeting these.

RESOLVED that: -

(a)         Cabinet noted the content of the report; and

(b)         Cabinet approved the Delivery Plan at appendix 2. 

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Housing and Regulatory Services

Reason

Councillors are responsible for ensuring that council services provided to tenants are managed effectively and that they deliver the outcomes of the regulatory consumer standards.

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 as a Registered Provider (RP) of Social Housing, BCP Council has increased responsibilities under the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, and that the Act provides greater powers, including inspections, to the Regulator of Social Housing to ensure that the outcomes for tenants as set out in revised regulatory consumer standards are delivered. It also ensures that tenant satisfaction is measured and reported annually through Tenant Satisfaction Measures, enabling tenants to see how well the council as their landlord is performing against other landlords who are also registered providers.

Cabinet was informed that for many of the measures the council is within or near to the top quartile of performance especially those related to repairs and maintenance, and that for 2024/25 overall satisfaction has increased to 81.2 per cent.

Cabinet was advised that the Housing Ombudsman has also been given enhanced powers through the Act to ensure that tenants have access to an effective complaints process when things go wrong and that landlords are held to account, landlords have a legal duty to meet the standards set out in the Ombudsman’s Complaint Handling Code which sets out best practice in effective complaint handling.

Further to this Cabinet was advised that the Act also sets out qualification requirements for senior housing managers to bring the profession more in line with others such as social workers and teachers.

In addition to this Cabinet was further informed that other provisions within the Act ensured a review of the Decent Homes Standard and the introduction of Awaab’s law to compel landlords to address damp and mould in their homes.

It was highlighted that ensuring compliance with the requirements of the Act is challenging, and that the report sets out the council’s responsibilities and progress in meeting these.

RESOLVED that: -

(a)        Cabinet noted the content of the report; and

(b)        Cabinet approved the Delivery Plan at appendix 2. 

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Housing and Regulatory Services

Reason

Councillors are responsible for ensuring that council services provided to tenants are managed effectively and that they deliver the outcomes of the regulatory consumer standards.

The meeting adjourned at 12.01pm

The meeting reconvened at 12.15pm

Neighbourhood forums are organisations empowered to lead on the preparation of a neighbourhood plan within a defined area.

Neighbourhood planning involves the local community in developing a shared vision to help shape the future development and growth of their local area. A neighbourhood plan must proceed through several statutory stages before it can be formally ‘made’ (adopted) by the Council.

BCP Council has received two applications for designation of a neighbourhood forum and area within (i) the East Cliff and (ii) East Cliff and Springbourne Ward. Both applications extend into a small part of Bournemouth Town Centre ward. Each application was subject to a statutory public consultation inviting representations. The consultations ran in tandem between 24 February and 7 April 2025.

A prospective forum can determine what area is most suitable to plan for. However, the Local Planning Authority must first formally designate the forum (as a ‘qualifying body’) and designate the neighbourhood area, having regard to a range of factors including comments received from consultation.

RESOLVED that Cabinet considered each proposal for neighbourhood forum and area designation together with consultation responses and determined to agree option (2): -

That East Cliff and Springbourne Neighbourhood Forum and Area be designated, and that Option 1: the East Cliff Neighbourhood Forum and Area proposal is refused.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Leader of the Council

Reason

To meet the statutory obligations including provisions set out in (i) the Localism Act 2011 (ii) the Town & Country Planning Act 1990 and the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 (as amended by the Neighbourhood Planning Act 2017) and (iii) the Neighbourhood Planning Regulations 2012 (as amended).

During the debate the following reasons for the refusal of Option 1 were cited:-

·        The neighbourhood forum would split a ward which has some of the greatest challenges in terms of deprivation

·        The Neighbourhood Forum and Area does not have the backing of all three East Cliff & Springbourne ward councillors

·        The Neighbourhood Area is not considered to be inclusive as it excludes the Springbourne area, and as such does not align to Council values to empower more residents and communities to have a say about what is important in their area. Excluding people from decisions made in their local area can impact on community cohesion, health and social inequality.

·        The seafront is not included within the neighbourhood area (something which is strongly supported by residents)

·        Overall, the consultation feedback demonstrates less support for Option 1 (when compared with Option 2).

The Leader of the Council 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 neighbourhood forums are organisations empowered to lead on the preparation of a neighbourhood plan within a defined area.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that neighbourhood planning involved the local community in developing a shared vision to help shape the future development and growth of their local area, and that a neighbourhood plan must proceed through several statutory stages before it can be formally ‘made’ (adopted) by the Council.

Cabinet was informed that BCP Council had received two applications for designation of a neighbourhood forum and area within (i) the East Cliff and (ii) East Cliff and Springbourne Ward, and that both applications extend into a small part of Bournemouth Town Centre ward, each application was subject to a statutory public consultation inviting representations, and the consultations ran in tandem between 24 February and 7 April 2025.

Cabinet was advised that a prospective forum can determine what area is most suitable to plan for, however, the Local Planning Authority must first formally designate the forum (as a ‘qualifying body’) and designate the neighbourhood area, having regard to a range of factors including comments received from consultation.

The Leader invited Mr Mark Elkins to address the Cabinet following his involvement in the Neighbourhood Forum.

Mr Elkins spoke in support of the East Cliff and Springbourne Neighbourhood and Area citing the benefits of keeping the whole area together including the buildings, green space, beaches and cliffs and of the benefit of including Springbourne which he felt would have a greater impact on reserving heritage, dealing with crime and local employment opportunities.

Councillor Sara Armstrong addressed the Cabinet expressing thanks to officers and members of the public for actively building bridges to work together. Further to this Councillor Armstrong emphasised that the East Cliff and Springbourne neighbourhood area and forum proposal builds on grassroots engagement, which had the potential bring people together and to create and share common goals in a structured way.

Councillor Anne Marie Moriarty addressed the Cabinet supporting the proposals which would give the community a voice and highlighting the importance of including the seafront. In addition Councillor Moriarty questioned which option was the most inclusive and representative and which one drew logical boundaries and is led by people who have the trust of the Community, and that Option 2 (East Cliff and Springbourne Neighbourhood Area) was the more inclusive and included all of these things), in relation to this Councillor Moriarty advised that whilst this option definitely met the criteria, that it was also the will of the people which is the most important thing.

The Leader stressed that the Cabinet were being requested to make a decision which would shape the future, and that this was one of the most diverse and challenging wards, a unique area  ...  view the full minutes text for item 33.

Since the creation of BCP Council through the local government reorganisation of the four preceding councils in April 2019 we have been negotiating with the trade unions to introduce a new Pay and Reward package which aligns pay and conditions across all colleagues. 

This report sets out the progress made since Cabinet last considered the results of the November trade union ballot process and outlines next steps.

[PLEASE NOTE: Should the Cabinet wish to discuss the detail of the exempt Appendices at Appendix 6 it will be necessary to exclude the press and public and move into Confidential (Exempt) session]

The Portfolio Holder for Transformation, Resources and Governance 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 since the creation of BCP Council through the local government reorganisation of the four preceding councils in April 2019 the council had been negotiating with the trade unions to introduce a new Pay and Reward package which aligns pay and conditions across all colleagues. 

Cabinet was informed that the report sets out the progress made since Cabinet last considered the results of the November trade union ballot process and outlines next steps.

The Portfolio Holder expressed thanks to officers and to the Overview and Scrutiny Board who at the previous evenings meeting had supported the recommendations contained within the report.

Further to this the Portfolio Holder acknowledged the issues surrounding the staff within Childrens Services and advised that discussions were ongoing to look at how the issues could be addressed, and that officers were actively engaged in finding solutions.

In addition to this matter the Portfolio Holder advised that a briefing had been requested for Cabinet by the Director as soon as the matter was resolved.

Cabinet members spoke in support of the report highlighting the importance of this report and of the amount of work which had gone into this and thanks were expressed to the Director and officers involved.

The Portfolio Holder for Children, Young People, Education and Skills thanked the Portfolio Holder for acknowledging the issues within Children’s Services in particular with regards to market supplements not having pay protection attached and welcomed further discussions around this issue going forwards.

In addition, it was requested that a briefing be held with the Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee to bring awareness and understanding of the issue.

RECOMMENDED that Council: -

(a)       agree the additional costs associated with enhancing the proposed Pay and Reward offer;

(b)       agree the additional savings proposals outlined in Appendix 1 to ensure the cost implications of the proposal remain consistent with the February 2025 endorsed Medium Term Financial Plan;

(c)       agrees the details of the enhanced offer shown in Appendix 4 and 5 that will form the basis of the signed collective agreement with our recognised trade unions; and

(d)       approves the recommended implementation date of 1 December 2025 (in accordance with the timeline set out in appendix 7)

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Transformation, Resources and Governance

Reason

BCP Council has sought to reach a collective agreement with its recognised trade unions since February 2023.

In November 2024 Cabinet agreed to the commencement of collective consultation under s188 of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 (‘TULRCA’), which is a statutory obligation where an employer is proposing to dismiss 20 or more employees. This process did not commence as further exploratory options have been undertaken to try and seek ways that agreement can be reached.

An enhanced offer has been  ...  view the full minutes text for item 34.

The council has received requests from several residents who do not have off-street parking and use, or are planning to use, an electric car or van.  This paper sets out arrangements for a trial to permit them to install a cross-pavement gully channel. This is to enable the vehicle to be charged from the domestic electricity supply using a cable inserted into a channel just below the surface of the pavement and safely out of the way of pedestrians and wheelchair users.

The purpose of this paper is to seek council approval for the trial of EV gully charger installations, the outcome of which would inform a Council policy on such installations.

The installations would be at the cost of the householder.

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 council has received requests from several residents who do not have off-street parking and use, or are planning to use, an electric car or van, and that this paper sets out arrangements for a trial to permit them to install a cross-pavement gully channel.

Cabinet was informed that this is to enable the vehicle to be charged from the domestic electricity supply using a cable inserted into a channel just below the surface of the pavement and safely out of the way of pedestrians and wheelchair users.

Cabinet was advised that the purpose of this paper was to seek council approval for the trial of EV gully charger installations, the outcome of which would inform a Council policy on such installations.

Further to this the Cabinet was informed that the installations would be at the cost of the householder.

Councillor Adrian Chapmanlaw addressed the Cabinet urging that the installation companies look at utilising an EV co-charging scheme.

Councillor Sharon Carr-Brown addressed the Cabinet in support of the recommendations.

The Portfolio Holder highlighted that the installations would be the householders responsibility and cost and so therefore it wouldn’t be appropriate to mandate co-charging.

Members of the Cabinet spoke in support of the important scheme. 

RECOMMENDED that Council agrees: -

(a)        the introduction of a trial cross-pavement Electric Vehicle charging solution with charging gullies being set into the footway;

(b)        that charging gully installations will need to comply with the criteria set out in Appendix 1; and

(c)        that a policy for the installation of charging gullies be developed following the outcome of the trial.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Climate Response, Environment and Energy

Reason

(a)        The council has received several requests from residents with electric vehicles (EVs) or wishing to use an EV who do not have off-road parking and as a result are unable to charge an EV at home.

(b)        The decision to allow the installation of a cross-pavement solution in the public highway rests with the local authority. which should be satisfied it meets construction, safety, accessibility, and other standards before agreeing to the apparatus being installed on a public highway. Temporary solutions, such as cable covers or mats, which may be placed on top of a cable, can be pedestrian trip hazards as well as a danger to wheelchairs/pushchairs.

(c)         The trial is required to support the development of a policy for the installation of charging gullies.

The purpose of this report is to outline the proposed investment on the bridges and to gain Council approval to release the allocation and commence the programme.

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 a £6m allocation of strategic CIL had been approved at March 2025 Full Council, and that the priority projects in this allocation relate to critical works on Poole Bridge and the Twin Sails.

Cabinet was informed that the purpose of the report was to outline the proposed investment on the bridges and to gain Council approval to release the allocation and commence the programme.

RECOMMENDED that Council: -

(a)     agrees that the £6m of strategic CIL allocated in principle to Transport is invested in the Port of Poole Bridges Programme; 

(b)    Delegate delivery of the Port of Poole Bridges Programme to the Service Director for Customer and Property in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Climate Mitigation, Energy and Environment; and

(c)     Both (a) and (b) are subject to receiving the subsequent endorsement of the Director of Finance based on the availability of the necessary cash.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Climate Response, Environment and Energy

Reason

This report presents the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP). This has been produced to provide a roadmap and informed action plan to enable the Council, working with partners and other organisations, to address its Climate and Ecological Emergency commitments and achieve the stated aim of carbon neutrality by 2045.

RESOLVED that: -

Cabinet accepts the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Local Area Energy Plan and agrees to explore the action plan of 15 priority actions to be taken forward to achieve area-wide carbon neutrality by 2045.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Climate Response, Environment and Energy

Reason

The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Local Area Energy Plan is an evidence-based document that provides a roadmap to achieving the Council commitment of working towards a carbon neutral area by 2045. Endorsement will support the Council’s Corporate Plan objectives and Climate and Ecological Emergency commitments.

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 the report presented the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) which had been produced to provide a roadmap and informed action plan to enable the Council, working with partners and other organisations, to address its Climate and Ecological Emergency commitments and achieve the stated aim of carbon neutrality by 2045.

The Portfolio Holder advised Cabinet that the Environment and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee had considered this item at their recent meeting where the committee had supported the report and the following recommendations had been agreed: -

The Environment and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee agreed the following recommendation to Cabinet on this item:

1)    The recommendation as outlined in the report be approved by Cabinet.

Voting: Unanimous

2)    The Environment and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee recommends that Cabinet add as an external stakeholder, the community to be represented in all stakeholder engagement, including any panels, meetings or focus groups.

Voting: Unanimous

RESOLVED that: -

Cabinet accepts the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Local Area Energy Plan and agrees to explore the action plan of 15 priority actions to be taken forward to achieve area-wide carbon neutrality by 2045.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Climate Response, Environment and Energy

Reason

The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Local Area Energy Plan is an evidence-based document that provides a roadmap to achieving the Council commitment of working towards a carbon neutral area by 2045. Endorsement will support the Council’s Corporate Plan objectives and Climate and Ecological Emergency commitments.

Acknowledging the length of time that has expired since the Council decision, this report requests Cabinet to reaffirm the disposal of council owned land at Wessex Fields, Riverside Avenue Bournemouth, BH7 7EE based on the confidential Heads of Terms as set out in confidential Appendix B.

Cabinet should note that UHD would not be under an obligation to provide a link road connecting to Deansleigh Road

PROVIDED THAT decisions under this Cabinet Report are made strictly in the council’s capacity as landowner and nothing in this Cabinet Report (nor any decision thereunder) shall prejudice or affect any statutory right, power, obligation or duty vested in the council in its capacity as local planning authority, rating authority or local highway authority or any other capacity.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

Authorise the Director of Finance acting in his capacity as Corporate Property Officer, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance, to implement the previous decision of Council to dispose of council owned land at Wessex Fields to the University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust (“UHD”) on the terms set out in this report subject to any financial amendments.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

To authorise the Director of Finance and Finance Portfolio Holder to implement the previous decision of Council to disposal of land at the Wessex Fields site located at Riverside Avenue to:

1.      Achieve the socio-economic benefits as the purchase by the hospital would unlock substantial health benefits for the residents of Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole and the wider area.

2.      Disposal of the site to University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust in line with its best value duties as determined in accordance with a RICS Red Book Valuation.

3.      Generate a capital receipt to support the funding of the Council’s various transformation programmes.

To ensure the terms of the disposal are set out in an open and transparent manner for member consideration.

Please note that UHD would not be under an obligation to provide a link road connecting to Deansleigh Road PROVIDED THAT decisions under this Cabinet Report are made strictly in the council’s capacity as landowner and nothing in this Cabinet Report (nor any decision thereunder) shall prejudice or affect any statutory right, power, obligation or duty vested in the council in its capacity as local planning authority, rating authority or local highway authority or any other capacity.

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 'K' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that acknowledging the length of time that has expired since the Council decision, the report requested Cabinet reaffirm the disposal of council owned land at Wessex Fields, Riverside Avenue Bournemouth, BH7 7EE based on the confidential Heads of Terms as set out in confidential Appendix B.

In relation to this Cabinet was advised to note that UHD would not be under an obligation to provide a link road connecting to Deansleigh Road.

Further to this Cabinet was informed that provided that decisions under this Cabinet Report were made strictly in the council’s capacity as landowner and nothing in the Cabinet Report (nor any decision thereunder) shall prejudice or affect any statutory right, power, obligation or duty vested in the council in its capacity as local planning authority, rating authority or local highway authority or any other capacity.

Councillor Philip Broadhead addressed the Cabinet expressing concern with regards to the decision which he felt was contrary to the Council decision.

In response to this the Monitoring Officer asked members to refer to paragraph one of the report which clearly set out the previous decision of the council which had resolved: -

that Council approve the disposal of the council owned land at Wessex Fields to the University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust on such terms to be approved by the Director of Finance acting in his capacity as Corporate Property Officer, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance.

Cabinet members spoke in support of the recommendation.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

Authorise the Director of Finance acting in his capacity as Corporate Property Officer, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance, to implement the previous decision of Council to dispose of council owned land at Wessex Fields to the University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust (“UHD”) on the terms set out in this report subject to any financial amendments.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

Reason

To authorise the Director of Finance and Finance Portfolio Holder to implement the previous decision of Council to disposal of land at the Wessex Fields site located at Riverside Avenue to:

1.      Achieve the socio-economic benefits as the purchase by the hospital would unlock substantial health benefits for the residents of Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole and the wider area.

2.      Disposal of the site to University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust in line with its best value duties as determined in accordance with a RICS Red Book Valuation.

3.      Generate a capital receipt to support the funding of the Council’s various transformation programmes.

To ensure the terms of the disposal are set out in an open and transparent manner for member consideration.

Please note that UHD would not be under an obligation to provide a link road connecting to Deansleigh Road PROVIDED THAT decisions under this Cabinet  ...  view the full minutes text for item 38.

This paper provides the 2024/25 outturn for the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) high needs block, budget agreed for 2025/26 and actions being undertaken to manage the budget within a challenging national framework. 

The outturn for 2024/25 was high needs expenditure of £111.9m compared with funding of £62.0m (a DSG funding gap of £49.9m) This was £5.3m more than reported to Cabinet in February 2025. There were some non-recurring payments made in the final months of the year that had not been included in the forecast but some of the increase is likely to be ongoing as more young people were being supported by the high needs budget by March 2025 than had been expected.

The high needs budget for 2025/26 was set with the expectation that the annual funding gap would grow to £57.5m as demand growth was expected to continue to outstrip funding growth. There are initiatives in the SEND improvement plan (some being invest-to-save) that should have an impact on the high needs budget over time, and these are set out in this report.

Work is in progress to establish the expenditure forecast outturn for 2025/26. Placements for the new academic year are in the process of being finalised for those new in the system, at transition ages, or requiring a change for other reasons. The forecast will also be updated to reflect progress on service initiatives currently underway or being developed.    

RESOLVED that Cabinet noted the contents of the report.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Children’s Services

Reason

This is an information report.

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 'K' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the paper provided the 2024/25 outturn for the Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) high needs block, budget agreed for 2025/26 and actions being undertaken to manage the budget within a challenging national framework. 

Cabinet was informed that the outturn for 2024/25 was high needs expenditure of £111.9m compared with funding of £62.0m (a DSG funding gap of £49.9m), this was £5.3m more than reported to Cabinet in February 2025.

In relation to this Cabinet was informed that there were some non-recurring payments made in the final months of the year that had not been included in the forecast but some of the increase is likely to be ongoing as more young people were being supported by the high needs budget by March 2025 than had been expected.

Cabinet was advised that the high needs budget for 2025/26 was set with the expectation that the annual funding gap would grow to £57.5m as demand growth was expected to continue to outstrip funding growth, and that there are initiatives in the SEND improvement plan (some being invest-to-save) that should have an impact on the high needs budget over time, and these are set out in this report.

Further to this Cabinet was advised that work is in progress to establish the expenditure forecast outturn for 2025/26. Placements for the new academic year are in the process of being finalised for those new in the system, at transition ages, or requiring a change for other reasons. The forecast will also be updated to reflect progress on service initiatives currently underway or being developed.    

The Chair of the Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee addressed the Cabinet advising that the Committee would be considering the paper at their meeting in September. Further to this the Chair congratulated the progress made and whilst understanding the financial pressures emphasised the importance of the services provided.

The Portfolio Holder thanked the Chair for their comments and advised that he was looking forward to the input from the Childrens Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

RESOLVED that Cabinet noted the contents of the report.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Children’s Services

Reason

This is an information report.

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.

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.

Prior to closing the meeting the Leader advised Cabinet that this would be the Chief Executives last Cabinet meeting prior to retiring at the end of August, and expressed thanks to the Chief Executive for all his support.

Cabinet members spoke in support of the Leaders comments echoing their thanks to Graham and in addition offering praise with regards to the senior management team for winning the recent LGA senior leadership award.

The Chief Executive addressed the Cabinet advising that it had been both an honour and priviledge to be the Chief Executive of BCP Council since its inception and wished everyone well for the future.