Agenda, decisions and minutes

Councillors are required to comply with the requirements of the Localism Act 2011 and the Council's Code of Conduct regarding Disclosable Pecuniary Interests.

Councillors are also required to disclose any other interests where a Councillor is a member of an external body or organisation where that membership involves a position of control or significant influence, including bodies to which the Council has made the appointment in line with the Council's Code of Conduct.

Declarations received will be reported at the meeting.

There were no declarations of interest made on this occasion.

To confirm and sign as a correct record the minutes of the Meeting held on 13 November 2019.

The Minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 13 November 2019 were confirmed as a correct record and signed.

Voting: Unanimous

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/documents/s2305/Public%20Items%20-%20Meeting%20Procedure%20Rules.pdf 

The deadline for the submission of public questions is Friday 13 December 2019.

The deadline for the submission of a statement is 12.00 noon, Thursday 19 December 2019.

The deadline for the submission of a petition is 12.00 noon, Thursday 19 December 2019.

The Leader reported that no public questions or petitions had been received on this occasion but that nine statements had been received.

Statement from Nick Greenwood, local resident:

The BCP Council notes headed ‘Cabinet’ Meeting 20^th December 2019 indicate an unstoppable roll-out of 5G with an historical record of disregard for Public Consensus. Seemingly a ‘done deal’ well in advance of local population awareness on matters that may result in unwelcome adverse public effects. I request a balanced Public awareness drive and Public Notices to all BCP Constituents including but not limited to:

(1) Lansdowne Test Bed details with consideration for the Nuremberg Code.

(2) Location/details of all transmission/receiver equipment related to 5G and the Smart Place Program.

(3) Health Risk Awareness/Assessments

(4) Financial risks and Insurance difficulties.

Statement from Mike Forte, local resident:

"Do you understand the components comprising '5G' and what each allegedly offers over and above current technology?

The promised Internet of things is failing because of weak encryption keys and proving a gift for hackers.

Autonomous vehicles are ill-suited to the roads of Bournemouth except maybe to replace the Noddy Train on the promenade. 

Are you satisfied 5G technology is safe to unleash in BCP where you are the guardians of the best interests of citizens and their environment?

I strongly suggest that the only option is to apply the precautionary principle and pause the deployment of 5G in BCP."

Statement from Soo Chapman, local resident:

Relating to the Local Industrial Strategy as well as Community Engagement;

Global crop failures hit at 1.5-2 degrees

Billions die at 3 degrees.

Most humans dead at 4 degrees

Earth uninhabitable at 6 degrees.

We're heading for 1.5 degrees C by 2025

.......for 2 degrees C by 2035

.........for 4-6 degrees by  2075.

Fossil fuels must be left in the ground.  BCP council must speedily decarbonise, alert and protect its citizens. Transition Town policies will help salvage harvests and ecosystems.

Climate phobic media, politics and planning has failed us. Community can help. 

All Hands on Deck. 

Statement from Cathryn Jones

Please stop 5g now

We don't want it here!

We want to be safe 

Not to live in fear

that health will come second 

to internet speed

Will you listen to the people?

Will you take heed?

To the warnings, concerns 

that we don't know enough

That insufficient testing 

has been carried out on this stuff

BCP we urge you to listen 

Other local authorities do 

Glastonbury, Frome, Totnes, 

to name a few 

Brighton & Hove more recently too

Follow suit

Take a stand 

Demand more to be shown 

That health will come first 

on our planet called home!"

Statement from Amy Tarr

This testbed should not be deployed in Lansdowne without informed consent and full awareness and transparency that

This new technology has not been pre-market safety tested by the telecoms industry for health or environmental harm 

That a 5G antenna may be put up outside people’s homes or in close proximity 

That 5G is a Pulsed millimetre wave  ...  view the full minutes text for item 91.

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

Cabinet were advised that there were no additional recommendations from the Overview and Scrutiny Board on items not otherwise included on the Cabinet Agenda on this occasion.

This report seeks Cabinet approval to conduct the Smart Place Pilot project at the Lansdowne as an initial proof of concept project for the wider Smart Place Programme, which is the subject of a separate Cabinet report.

This project is primarily supported by £1m of Dorset LEP funding, with local match funding of £330k. This funding is in addition to the £900k already secured for digital technology deployment through the Lansdowne Business District Project.

This project supports a number of themes within the Council’s new Corporate Strategy.

Funding for the project is due to be spent by March 2021.

RESOLVED that:-

1.      The deployment of the Smart Place Pilot (Lansdowne) including:

(i)         The development of proof of concept Smart Place ‘use case’ trials, typically in health; environment; transport, tourism and public security etc.

(ii)       The development of proof of concept Smart Place ‘Applications & Services’, typically in transport, volunteering and retail etc.

(iii)     A small, temporary sub-6 GHz 5G trial network;

(iv)     A small, temporary 26.5 GHz 5G trial network;

(v)       Continuous monitoring of electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions from the 5G trial networks to ensure compliance with Public Health England (ICNIRP) guidelines (in accordance with recommendation b) from the Overview & Scrutiny 5G Call for Evidence)

2.         Council formally accepts £1m grant funding from the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (DLEP) in order to progress the scheme, and amends the Capital Investment Programme (CIP) accordingly

It is RESOLVED that Cabinet note:

3.          The recommendations from Overview & Scrutiny relating to the ‘5G Call for Evidence’ public consultation namely:

(a)       That Cabinet be asked to consider equitable ways to involve the public more in the consultation around the planning implications of the implementation of 5G technology, particularly with regard to the siting of masts.

(b)       That if Cabinet is minded to approve the deployment by the Council of 5G connectivity as part of the Lansdowne Digital Pilot continuous monitoring takes place to ensure that the levels of radio wave emissions fall within the internationally recognised limits, and the findings be reported back to theOverview and Scrutiny Board.

(c)       That the Board agrees that all information submitted in its call for evidence in relation to 5G connectivity be passed to Public Health England to consider for inclusion in future reviews.

(d)       That a framework be established for feedback to be provided to the Council in relation to the call for evidence information passed to Public Health England.

Note: In discussing this item, the Chairman [of O&S] agreed on behalf of the Board to request through Cabinet that the Council contacts other relevant local authorities with regard to their work in this area, including those who have agreed to be Government funded test bed areas and those who have declared a moratorium.

4.     £900k has already been secured for digital infrastructure through the Lansdowne Business District Growth Deal project. This project includes:

(i)        Ducting and fibre around the Lansdowne area (already installed);

(ii)    Public Wi-Fi network (about to be procured)

(iii)  Connection to a commercial data centre

(iv)  Internet of Things Network

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder(s): Leader of the Council

Reason

The trial Smart Place use cases, applications and services, utilising new digital technologies, to evidence and quantify social, environmental, economic and financial benefits likely to accrue from the wider Smart Place Programme.

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

Cabinet approval was sought to conduct the Smart Place Pilot project at the Lansdowne as an initial proof of concept project for the wider Smart Place Programme, which is the subject of a separate Cabinet report.

In presenting the report the Leader praised the work of the Overview and Scrutiny Board in respect of the 5G call for evidence. The Leader stressed the importance of being in control with regards to the pilot and having the ability to end the pilot if necessary.

The Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Board advised Cabinet that he was pleased that the Overview and Scrutiny Board had held a call for evidence, and that he was grateful that all of the recommendations which came out of the Overview and Scrutiny Board had been brought forwards. In addition the Chairman highlighted that there had been over 220 written submissions along with verbal submissions which had been made at the meetings, and that all of these had been listened to and considered, along with any other evidence presented.

A Councillor present at the meeting addressed the Cabinet stressing their concern with regards to 5G and the potential bad effect it may have on all living things. In addition the Councillor advised that lots of scientists had spoken out against 5G.

Cabinet Members spoke in support of commencing with the pilot highlighting that the pilot will be monitored very carefully, and in addition recognising that there needs to be a debate at a national level.

Cabinet Members further praised the work of the Overview and Scrutiny Board in its call for evidence and for the recommendations which had come out of this process.

RESOLVED that:-

1.     The deployment of the Smart Place Pilot (Lansdowne) including:

(i)        The development of proof of concept Smart Place ‘use case’ trials, typically in health; environment; transport, tourism and public security etc.

(ii)      The development of proof of concept Smart Place ‘Applications & Services’, typically in transport, volunteering and retail etc.

(iii)     A small, temporary sub-6 GHz 5G trial network;

(iv)     A small, temporary 26.5 GHz 5G trial network;

(v)      Continuous monitoring of electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions from the 5G trial networks to ensure compliance with Public Health England (ICNIRP) guidelines (in accordance with recommendation b) from the Overview & Scrutiny 5G Call for Evidence)

2.        Council formally accepts £1m grant funding from the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (DLEP) in order to progress the scheme, and amends the Capital Investment Programme (CIP) accordingly

It is RESOLVED that Cabinet note:

3.         The recommendations from Overview & Scrutiny relating to the ‘5G Call for Evidence’ public consultation namely:

(a)      That Cabinet be asked to consider equitable ways to involve the public more in the consultation around the planning implications of the implementation of 5G technology, particularly with regard to the siting of masts.

(b)  ...  view the full minutes text for item 93.

This report proposes public consultation on the development of a Community Engagement Strategy for BCP Council. The purpose of this strategy is to provide clear principles about how the Council engages and consults with the local community. The report outlines a proposed consultation period and seeks approval from Cabinet to commence this in January 2020.

This report also considers the need for the Council to develop clear guidance around how it will prioritise area-based regeneration work in areas of deprivation. It proposes that Cabinet authorises officers to develop a Community Regeneration Strategy in early 2020 which will provide clarity about how we identify and work within these priority areas.

This report also details the existing area forums and Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) Panels across BCP which currently provide a platform for community engagement and proposes that these are maintained for the foreseeable future, or until such time alternative arrangements are put in place.

RESOLVED that:-

(a)           Cabinet approve the draft principles contained within Appendix A, “Community Engagement Strategy Draft Principles”, and;

(b)           Cabinet approve the implementation of the consultation methodology and timescales included in Appendix B, “Community Engagement Strategy Consultation Plan”, and:

(c)           Cabinet authorises Officers to develop a Community Regeneration Strategy in due course, and;

(d)           Cabinet approve the ongoing support of area forums and SNT panels.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder(s): Tourism, Leisure and Communities

Reason

(a)           Cabinet are recommended to approve the draft principles in order for BCP Council to progress with the development of a Community Engagement Strategy which details the approaches it will use to engaging and consulting with the community. This ensures that the Council is delivering its Corporate Plan priority of Connected Communities. The draft principles will be subject to consultation with the wider community to ensure that they are appropriate and reflect the needs of the local community.

(b)           Cabinet are recommended to approve the implementation of the Community Engagement Strategy Consultation Plan in order for a robust 13-week public consultation to take place. The details within the consultation plan propose far reaching methods to ensure that alongside traditional methods of consultation we are reaching out to seek the views of those who would often not engage in mainstream consultation techniques. A far-reaching consultation with a commitment to targeted consultation in every ward in the Borough will enable BCP Council to understand how to engage and consult with all sectors of society;

(c)           Cabinet are recommended to authorise officers to begin work on a  Community Regeneration Strategy in 2020 so that the Council has clear and transparent processes for how it will prioritise areas for regeneration to ensure that they are adequately resourced and supported.

(d)           Cabinet are recommended to approve the continuation of area forums and SNT meetings to ensure that there are recognised platforms for residents to engage with the Council and partners and raise concerns as required.

The Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Leisure 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 were requested to consider the proposed public consultation on the development of a Community Engagement Strategy for BCP Council. In relation to this Cabinet were advised that the purpose of the strategy was to provide clear principles about how the Council engages and consults with the local community.

The Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Board informed Cabinet that the Overview and Scrutiny Board at their recent meeting had resolved that Cabinet be recommended to build on known good practice and insight gathered by preceding authorities in the development of a Community Engagement Strategy.  

In relation to this Cabinet Members stressed the importance of engagement and of going through a proper process of review from new.

RESOLVED that:-

(a)          Cabinet approve the draft principles contained within Appendix A, “Community Engagement Strategy Draft Principles”, and;

(b)          Cabinet approve the implementation of the consultation methodology and timescales included in Appendix B, “Community Engagement Strategy Consultation Plan”, and:

(c)          Cabinet authorises Officers to develop a Community Regeneration Strategy in due course, and;

(d)          Cabinet approve the ongoing support of area forums and SNT panels.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder(s): Tourism, Leisure and Communities

To present proposals for a public consultation on the principles for a new Adult Social Care charging policy for BCP Council and to gain permission to launch the public consultation necessary to inform the content of the final policy.

RESOLVED that subject to the additional paragraph being included within the consultation document as set out above:-

(a)          Cabinet noted that BCP Council is required to establish an Adult Social Care charging policy for residents; carers and for people who use services.  In order to achieve this, public consultation is necessary in order to inform the final policy; and

(b)          The proposals for a public consultation on the principles for a new Adult Social Care charging policy for BCP Council be agreed and permission be granted to launch the public consultation necessary to inform the content of the final policy.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Adults and Health

Reason

BCP Council is required to establish an Adult Social Care charging policy for residents; carers and for people who use services. In order to achieve this, public consultation is necessary in order to inform the final policy.

The Portfolio Holder for Adults and Health 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 were requested to note the intention to go out to consultation in order to inform the required Adult Social Care charging policy for residents, carers and for people who use services.

The Chairman of the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee addressed the Cabinet as the Member who had chaired the working party which had considered this matter. In addressing the Cabinet the Chairman of the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee advised that in consultation with the Vice-Chairman of the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee it was proposed that an additional question be included within the public consultation this being:

Under p.75 an additional paragraph be included under ‘Transport to and from day centres’

“BCP Council is concerned about the environmental impact of transportation, including that used by people travelling to day centres. As part of this consultation we are asking people whether it would be better to include the cost of transport as part of the overall day centre charge. Including the transport costs in the day centre charge may encourage people to use the Council’s own day centre vehicles and as a result reduce the number of individual cars on the road. However, we understand this might not suit everyone and would like to know the impact this may have on you.”

Cabinet thanked the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee for their scrutiny of the proposed public consultation and supported the recommendations which had arisen through the working group.

RESOLVED that subject to the additional paragraph being included within the consultation document as set out above:-

(a)         Cabinet noted that BCP Council is required to establish an Adult Social Care charging policy for residents; carers and for people who use services.  In order to achieve this, public consultation is necessary in order to inform the final policy; and

(b)         The proposals for a public consultation on the principles for a new Adult Social Care charging policy for BCP Council be agreed and permission be granted to launch the public consultation necessary to inform the content of the final policy.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Adults and Health

This report summaries the development and content of the Dorset Local Industrial Strategy (LIS).  It provides members with an overview of work co-ordinated by the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) in close collaboration with BCP Council.  Members are asked to support this strategy.

RESOLVED that:-

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Regeneration and Culture

Reason

Irrespective of the outcome of the 2019 General Election, it is critical that Dorset can articulate a clear, well-evidenced economic ambition to Central Government, whilst also giving confidence to local business and future private investors. It is important that, when required, Dorset can move at pace to respond to both public and private investors. A Dorset Local Industrial Strategy with an aligned Council economic vision and plan, utilising the same economic analysis, will achieve this.

The Leader 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 were requested to consider and support the Dorset Local Industrial Strategy and further to this were provided with an overview of work co-ordinated by the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership in close collaboration with BCP Council.

In presenting the report the Leader advised that the strategy had already been signed off by Dorset Council.

The Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Board advised Cabinet that the Overview and Scrutiny Board had welcomed the report.

RESOLVED that:-

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Regeneration and Culture

This report details the good progress made in the development of a robust balanced budget for 2020/21. The report also sets out;

·      The latest Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) position.

·      Details of the key assumptions being applied to the 2020/21 budget and MTFP process.

·      An update on the key financial risks as set out in the October MTFP Update report including the High Needs Budget.

·      Recommendations of the Chief Finance Officer in respect of the review of earmarked reserves.

In addition, and in respect of the framework for Council Tax, the report proposes;

·      Not to change the Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTSS) for 2020/21 and therefore the Council will operate the same scheme as that applied for 2019/20.

·      To introduce a new Council Tax discount for BCP care experienced young people up to the age of 25.

RESOLVED that Cabinet:-

(a)           Notes the good progress that has been made in developing a robust and lawful budget for 2020/21.

(b)           Notes the update on the strategic financial risks.

(c)           Endorses the review of earmarked reserves designed to support the Council’s Budget and MTFP process.

(d)           Approves the continuation of the current 2019/20 Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTSS) into 2020/21.

(e)           Approves the new Council Tax discount for BCP care experienced young people up to the age of 25.

(f)            Confirms the recommendation of the Overview and Scrutiny Board that Cabinet Portfolio Holders be requested to provide further detail on budget work and risk analysis on the savings identified to date in figure 1 of the MTFP report to Cabinet of 20 December, to the Overview and Scrutiny Board in January, and prior to the budget being presented.

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 finacncial plan.

To ensure Members develop a balanced budget for 2020/21.

To provide Cabinet with the latest high-level overview of the medium-term financial plan position for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council.

To ask Cabinet to approve the continuation of the current LCTSS and the introduction of a new Council Tax Discount for care experienced young people up to the age of 25.

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 'E' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet were requested consider the rolling multi-year medium term financial plan in order to comply with accounting codes of practice and best practice. In relation to this Cabinet were advised of the progress which had been made in the development of a robust balanced budget for 2020/21.

The Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Board thanked the Portfolio Holder for his thorough presentation of the report and for the recent briefings which had been held for the Overview and Scrutiny Board. In addition the Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Board advised Cabinet that at their recent meeting the Overview and Scrutiny Board had resolved that Cabinet Portfolio Holders be requested to provide further detail on budget work and risk analysis on the savings identified to date in figure 1 of the MTFP report to Cabinet of 20 December, to the Overview and Scrutiny Board in January, and prior to the budget being presented.

A Councillor present at the meeting spoke in support of the recommendation in relation to the new Council Tax discount for BCP care experienced young people.

Cabinet Members discussed the Overview and Scrutiny Boards recommendation in detail expressing concerns with regards to the potential extra work which may be required of officers in order to provide the detail requested, and the potential that some figures may change prior to the final budget being published.

In relation to this the Cabinet were reassured that figures were available, and that reports prepared providing further details around the figures could be submitted to the Overview and Scrutiny Board as late supplementary reports or presented on the day of the meeting.

RESOLVED that Cabinet:-

(a)          Notes the good progress that has been made in developing a robust and lawful budget for 2020/21.

(b)          Notes the update on the strategic financial risks.

(c)          Endorses the review of earmarked reserves designed to support the Council’s Budget and MTFP process.

(d)          Approves the continuation of the current 2019/20 Local Council Tax Support Scheme (LCTSS) into 2020/21.

(e)          Approves the new Council Tax discount for BCP care experienced young people up to the age of 25.

(f)           Confirms the recommendation of the Overview and Scrutiny Board that Cabinet Portfolio Holders be requested to provide further detail on budget work and risk analysis on the savings identified to date in figure 1 of the MTFP report to Cabinet of 20 December, to the Overview and Scrutiny Board in January, and prior to the budget being presented.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Finance

The purpose of the report is to seek the allocation of funding to undertake short to medium term investments in the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), to ensure it continues to be a venue of choice for conferences and entertainment.

The Portfolio Holder Tourism, Leisure & Communities 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 were requested to consider the allocation of funding to undertake short to medium term investments in the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), to ensure that it continues to be a venue of choice for conferences and investment.

In presenting the report the Portfolio Holder stressed the importance of investment in the BIC in particular in order to secure long term bookings.

The Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Board advised Cabinet that at their recent meeting the Board had expressed concern with regards to the length of the loan. And that further to this had resolved to make the following recommendations to the Cabinet:

1)    Delete recommendation of the report; and

2)    Amend recommendation (b) to read ‘Approves the use of up to £1.8m of Prudential Borrowing at assumed interest rate of 5.5% over 25 years.

A Councillor in attendance at the meeting addressed the Cabinet expressing concerns with regards to tendering for all the works at once in particular financial costs that may be incurred should not all of the stages of the works be carried out.

In relation to this the Cabinet discussed the tendering and highlighted that tendering for all the work at the same time was the most cost efficient way. In relation to this it was felt that as part of the tendering process the tendering documents could express the concerns and look to limit any financial penalties.

Cabinet Members highlighted the importance of looking to use environmentally friendly products within the development.

RECOMMENDED that Full Council:-

(a)          Supports the proposal for up to £4.7m ‘short term’ remodelling programme of the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), on the understanding that only up to £1.8m of this will be committed in advance of the longer-term BIC development options study;

(b)          Approves the use of up to £4.7m of Prudential Borrowing at assumed interest rate of 5.5% over 25 years;

(c)          Delegates to the Corporate Director and Portfolio Holder for Destination & Culture responsibility for approving the final specification and phasing of the programme;

(d)          A commitment to review spending of uncommitted monies in years 2 and 3 of this project should the BIC long term development plan warrant that;

(e)          Delegates approval of the final funding strategy to the Chief Financial Officer, in liaison with Corporate Director and Portfolio Holder for Finance and Destination & Culture; and

(f)           Notes that a further report will be brought for Member approval to address ongoing asset management needs across the whole of the BH Live estate.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Tourism, Leisure & Communities

The proposed Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum and proposed Sandbanks Peninsula Neighbourhood Plan Area have been submitted to the Council.  Both applications have met the conditions of the Neighbourhood Planning Regulations 2012. 

Following a six week period of public consultation between 23/09/2019 - 04/11/2019 and due consideration of comments received, there is no justification or reasons to refuse the proposed forum’s application. Those who commented were mainly supportive of the applications.

Formal designation of the Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum and Sandbanks Peninsula boundary area will enable the community to start preparing a neighbourhood plan for the Sandbanks Peninsula Area. Once this has been through the statutory process and if adopted by Council, the policies in the plan will be used, alongside the Council’s planning policy documents, to make decisions on planning applications in the area. 

RESOLVED that:-

(a)        Note the officer assessment of the application submitted by the proposed Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum to apply for status as a ‘designated body’ and the proposed Area boundary.

(b)        Note the support for the Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum and area boundary from the consultation responses received.

(c)        In light of (a) and (b) approve the designation of the Sandbanks Neighbourhood forum as a relevant body for the purposes of neighbourhood planning within the boundaries of the neighbourhood area set out in the application, and;

(d)        Approve that the area set out in the application be designated as a neighbourhood area for the purposes of neighbourhood planning

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Strategic Planning

Reason

The Council, as Local Planning Authority is required to determine an application it receives for designation as a proposed ‘Neighbourhood Forum’ for the purposes of specific planning powers; and it is required to consider and determine a proposed ‘Neighbourhood Area’ should be designated as such, in accordance with the Neighbourhood Planning Regulation 2012.

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

Cabinet were asked to consider approving the designation of the Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum as a relevant body for the purposes of neighbourhood planning within the boundaries of the neighbourhood area set out in the application.

RESOLVED that:-

(a)       Note the officer assessment of the application submitted by the proposed Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum to apply for status as a ‘designated body’ and the proposed Area boundary.

(b)       Note the support for the Sandbanks Neighbourhood Forum and area boundary from the consultation responses received.

(c)       In light of (a) and (b) approve the designation of the Sandbanks Neighbourhood forum as a relevant body for the purposes of neighbourhood planning within the boundaries of the neighbourhood area set out in the application, and;

(d)       Approve that the area set out in the application be designated as a neighbourhood area for the purposes of neighbourhood planning

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Strategic Planning

This report seeks approval for a low-risk invest to save development of super huts on the seafront at Fisherman’s Walk, Bournemouth, designed to generate a net capital receipt after all scheme costs of c.£280k to the Council from a capital investment of £454k.  The project follows a well-established model of development from 6 previously successful similar schemes since 2005. 

The project would see the Council build 15 super huts by Easter 2021.  The huts would be sold on a first come first served basis with a full repair and maintenance lease for 25 years.  At the end of the period, the sites would revert back to the Council.  The attached report models projected capital and revenue returns based on a prudent sensitivity analysis of previously schemes and a higher than actual cost of borrowing.  It also models a worse case option whereby the super huts do not sell and are retained in house for casual rental.

Scheme costs include the relocation of existing beach huts to adjacent sites.  Engagement with any existing hut tenants likely to be affected would take place prior to the scheme coming forward for planning consideration.

RESOLVED that:-

(a)           Cabinet approve delivery of the scheme, subject to securing planning consents, and the sale of the super huts on 25 year leases; and

(b)           Cabinet delegate to the Service Director the setting of the final sales price which will be subject to market review closer to the time (Easter 2021)

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Tourism, Leisure & Communities

Reason

To maximise efficient use of Council assets, generating substantial new capital return whilst maintaining and improving ongoing revenue from existing beach huts.

The Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Leisure & Communities 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 were requested to approve a low-risk invest to save development of super huts on the seafront at Fisherman’s Walk.

The Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Board addressed the Cabinet advising that at their recent meeting the Overview and Scrutiny Board made the following recommendation to Cabinet:

‘Cabinet be recommended to retain one of the proposed super huts for use by the Council for good causes and charitable purposes.’

In relation to the recommendation from the Overview and Scrutiny Board the Portfolio Holder advised that they would be exploring ways in which those who wouldn’t ordinarily be able to access the beach huts would be able to have access by way of community groups having access to one or some of the huts.

RESOLVED that:-

(a)          Cabinet approve delivery of the scheme, subject to securing planning consents, and the sale of the super huts on 25 year leases; and

(b)          Cabinet delegate to the Service Director the setting of the final sales price which will be subject to market review closer to the time (Easter 2021)

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Tourism, Leisure & Communities

This report provides a high-level consideration of the work required to develop a Masterplan for the sustainable regeneration of Poole’s Town Centre (including Town Centre North, the High Street, Poole Quay, Twin Sails Regeneration Area, and other geographically appropriate sites).

RESOLVED that Cabinet:-

(a)           Approve the repurposing of up to £1m from the remaining Heart of Poole budget to progress a programme for the Regeneration of Poole Town Centre;

(b)           Delegate authority to the Corporate Director for Regeneration & Economy to progress the procurement of master-planners, undertake due-diligence and explore future delivery mechanisms;

(c)           Approve the proposed governance structure for the Poole Regeneration Programme as set out in Appendix A;

(d)           Approve the development of a new Funding Strategy for the delivery of a revised Masterplan for Poole Town Centre;

(e)           Approve the development of an Acquisition and a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) Strategy along with associated specialist agent and legal fees, that can be deployed should the need arise;

(f)            Approve the inclusion of Heritage Action Zone funding and match-funding via s106 and CIL within the Capital Programme (total £1.2m);

(g)           Delegate approval to the Corporate Director for Regeneration & Economy to explore additional funding requirements to support Regeneration across the conurbation;

(h)           Give due consideration to existing work already done in the development of a revised Masterplan for Poole Town Centre;

(i)             the revised Masterplan for Poole Town Centre be received by the O&S Board for scrutiny, once developed, and prior to wider consultation on the Masterplan; and

(j)             the Acquisition and Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) Strategy be received by the O&S Board for scrutiny, once developed.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holders: Culture, Regeneration and Economy

Transport and Infrastructure

Reason

To create a Vision and Masterplan for Poole Town Centre that will align with the aims of the Council and the priorities of the new CP Corporate Plan.

The Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Culture, Regeneration and Economy 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 were requested to consider the work required to develop a Masterplan for the sustainable regeneration of Poole’s Town Centre (including Town Centre North, High Street, Poole Quay, Twin Sails Regeneration Area, and other geographically appropriate sites).

The Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Board addressed the Cabinet and praised the Portfolio Holder for Culture, Regeneration & Economy for the report and further to this advised that at their recent meeting the Board resolved to make the following recommendations to Cabinet:

1)    Cabinet be recommended to build on existing work already done in the development of a revised Masterplan for Poole Town Centre;

2)    the revised Masterplan for Poole Town Centre be received by the O&S Board for scrutiny, once developed, and prior to wider consultation on the Masterplan;

3)    the Acquisition and Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) Strategy be received by the O&S Board for scrutiny, once developed.

In relation to the first recommendation the Portfolio Holder advised that much of the previous report would be used as a reference for the masterplanning.

Cabinet discussed the potential relocation of Poole Train Station and the reasons why a potential move would be considered. In relation to this Cabinet were advised that Network Rail were looking at a rail strategy for Dorset.

Cabinet discussed the Overview and Scrutiny Board recommendations and felt that they could be incorporated if the first recommendation was reworded to refer to ‘give due consideration to’.

RESOLVED that Cabinet:-

(a)          Approve the repurposing of up to £1m from the remaining Heart of Poole budget to progress a programme for the Regeneration of Poole Town Centre;

(b)          Delegate authority to the Corporate Director for Regeneration & Economy to progress the procurement of master-planners, undertake due-diligence and explore future delivery mechanisms;

(c)          Approve the proposed governance structure for the Poole Regeneration Programme as set out in Appendix A;

(d)          Approve the development of a new Funding Strategy for the delivery of a revised Masterplan for Poole Town Centre;

(e)          Approve the development of an Acquisition and a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) Strategy along with associated specialist agent and legal fees, that can be deployed should the need arise;

(f)           Approve the inclusion of Heritage Action Zone funding and match-funding via s106 and CIL within the Capital Programme (total £1.2m);

(g)          Delegate approval to the Corporate Director for Regeneration & Economy to explore additional funding requirements to support Regeneration across the conurbation;

(h)          Give due consideration to existing work already done in the development of a revised Masterplan for Poole Town Centre;

(i)           the revised Masterplan for Poole Town Centre be received by the O&S Board for scrutiny, once developed, and prior to wider consultation on the Masterplan; and

(j)           the Acquisition and Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) Strategy be received by  ...  view the full minutes text for item 101.

To seek approval for the adoption of the Poole Harbour Recreation Supplementary Planning Document

The Portfolio Holder for Strategic Planning 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 approval was sought for the adoption of the Poole Harbour Recreation Supplementary Planning Document.

Cabinet Members spoke in support of the document for referral onto Full Council for adoption.

RECOMMENDED that:-

(a)         Cabinet recommends that Council adopts that the Poole Harbour Recreation Supplementary Planning Document; and

(b)         any minor changes delegated to the Director of Growth and Infrastructure in liaison with the Portfolio Holder for Strategic Planning.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Strategic Planning

The BCP Council owned site contains 16 garages, all of which are void. The site is currently secured pending redevelopment.

The current proposal presents a new build scheme of 3 houses and associated parking to be provided on the site. These homes will help towards Local Plan housing targets and will also contribute significantly to unmet housing need.

RESOLVED that the proposed £712k housing scheme be approved for subsequent approval request;

(a)           Approval to planning and subsequent tender, commencement and completion of build subject to the conditions set out in the Financial Strategy and authorises the Corporate Director for Environment and Community to approve necessary appropriations and contractual and legal agreements in consultation with the Monitoring Officer and Chief Finance Officer;

(b)           Approve the financial strategy for the scheme as set out in paragraphs 45 to 49 with specific approval for;

(i)            The appropriation of land from the General Fund to the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) to enable the development of the affordable housing valued at £35k;

(ii)           £358,668 of prudential borrowing to be repaid over 25 years used to finance the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Affordable rented homes;

(c)           Authorise the Section 151 Officer in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance to determine the detailed funding arrangements;

(d)           Authorise the Corporate Property Officer in consultation with the Monitoring Officer to agree the detailed contract provisions.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Housing

Reason

To enable the proposed housing scheme to progress with the agreed funding arrangements to construction and subsequent completion in order to deliver the wide range of benefits to the Council and local communities.

The Portfolio Holder for Housing 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 were advised that the BCP Council owned site contained 16 garages, all of which were void and that the site had been secured pending redevelopment. In relation to this Cabinet were requested to consider approve the finances for the current proposal which presented a new build scheme of 3 houses and associated parking to be provided on the site. Further to this Cabinet were advised that these homes would help towards Local Plan housing targets and would also contribute significantly to unmet housing need.

A Councillor present at the meeting addressed Cabinet expressing disappointment that there was no provision for social housing within the scheme, and stressing that it should be possible to make the money work for what you want to achieve.

In relation to this the Portfolio Holder advised that going forwards the Council will be looking for sites where it is possible to achieve social housing.

RESOLVED that the proposed £712k housing scheme be approved for subsequent approval request;

(a)          Approval to planning and subsequent tender, commencement and completion of build subject to the conditions set out in the Financial Strategy and authorises the Corporate Director for Environment and Community to approve necessary appropriations and contractual and legal agreements in consultation with the Monitoring Officer and Chief Finance Officer;

(b)          Approve the financial strategy for the scheme as set out in paragraphs 45 to 49 with specific approval for;

(i)           The appropriation of land from the General Fund to the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) to enable the development of the affordable housing valued at £35k;

(ii)         £358,668 of prudential borrowing to be repaid over 25 years used to finance the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Affordable rented homes;

(c)          Authorise the Section 151 Officer in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance to determine the detailed funding arrangements;

(d)          Authorise the Corporate Property Officer in consultation with the Monitoring Officer to agree the detailed contract provisions.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Housing

To seek approval to consult upon the Dorset Heathlands Planning Framework 2020-2025 Supplementary Planning Document.

To seek approval for the Urban Heaths Partnership funding to be agreed for a further 2 year period.

RESOLVED that:-

(a)       Cabinet approves the publication of the Dorset Heathlands Planning Framework 2020-2025 Supplementary Planning Document for public consultation;

(b)       any minor changes to the consultation document are delegated to the Director of Growth and Infrastructure in liaison with the Portfolio Holder for Strategic Planning; and

(c)       Cabinet approves the funding arrangements for the Urban Heaths Partnership for the period 1^st April 2020 to 31^st March 2022.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Strategic Planning

Reason

To ensure the Council maintains a planning framework for mitigating impact on Dorset Heathlands. The document once adopted will have weight in decision making, when determining planning applications for new housing development. It will enable the decision maker a, as Competent Authority under the ‘Habitats Regulations’, the certainty that the impact of development will be mitigated avoiding an adverse effect upon the ‘Dorset Heathlands’.

The document is prepared jointly with Dorset Council and minor modifications may be requested by either Council which will need authorisation.

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

Cabinet approval was sought to consult upon the Dorset Heathlands Planning Framework 2020-2025 Supplementary Planning Document and for Urban Heaths Partnership funding for a further 2 year period.

Cabinet Members spoke in support of the report.

RESOLVED that:-

(a)      Cabinet approves the publication of the Dorset Heathlands Planning Framework 2020-2025 Supplementary Planning Document for public consultation;

(b)      any minor changes to the consultation document are delegated to the Director of Growth and Infrastructure in liaison with the Portfolio Holder for Strategic Planning; and

(c)      Cabinet approves the funding arrangements for the Urban Heaths Partnership for the period 1^st April 2020 to 31^st March 2022.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Strategic Planning