Agenda, decisions and minutes

Venue: Virtual Meeting. View directions

Contact: Democratic and Electoral Services 

Link: Click to view live meeting from 6.00pm on 10 March 2021

Items
No. Item

92.

Declarations of Interest

To receive from Members, declarations of the existence of any disclosable pecuniary, or non-pecuniary, interests and the nature of those interests in relation to any agenda item. Please see Agenda Notes.

Minutes:

There were no declarations of interest.

93.

Minutes pdf icon PDF 173 KB

To approve as a correct record the minutes of the meeting held on 10th February 2021.

Minutes:

RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on 10th February 2021 are confirmed as a correct record and be signed by the Chair in due course.

 

94.

Public Question Time (15 minutes)

The opportunity is given to members of the public to put questions to Cabinet Members or Committee Chairs provided that a question does not relate to:

 

·         Matters which are the subject of current or pending legal proceedings, or

·         Matters relating to employees or former employees of the Council or comments in respect of individual Council Officers

 

If you would like to ask a question at this meeting, please contact democratic.services@gloucester.gov.uk as soon as possible and by Friday 5th March 2021 at the latest.

 

Minutes:

There were no public questions.

95.

Petitions and Deputations (15 minutes)

To receive any petitions or deputations provided that no such petition or deputation is in relation to:

 

·         Matters relating to individual Council Officers, or

·         Matters relating to current or pending legal proceedings

 

If you would like to present a deputation or petition at this meeting, please contact democratic.services@gloucester.gov.uk as soon as possible and by Friday 5th March 2021 at the latest.

 

 

Minutes:

There were no petitions or deputations.

96.

Leader and Cabinet Members' Question Time (15 minutes)

Any Member of the Council may ask the Leader of the Council or any Cabinet Member any question without prior notice, upon:

        

·         Any matter relating to the Council’s administration

·         Any matter relating to any report of the Cabinet appearing on the summons

·         A matter coming within their portfolio of responsibilities

 

Only one supplementary question is allowed per question.

 

If you would like to ask a question at this meeting, please contact democratic.services@gloucester.gov.uk as soon as possible and by Friday 5th March 2021 at the latest.

 

Minutes:

Councillor Hilton referred to the Waste, Street Scene and Grounds Maintenance Services Options Report (agenda item 9) and the request for bidders to price certain pieces of work additional to the service (4.4).  He sought clarification of whether these enhancements would be adopted.  The Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Environment replied that although their cost had been included in the anticipated budget for 2022-23 (appendix 2), he confirmed that the decision would be taken in a year’s time when the financial position would be clearer.

 

97.

Aspire Sports and Cultural Trust COVID-19 Support

Minutes:

The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure announced the success of the application to the National Leisure Recovery Fund to assist Aspire to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic (Cabinet 10th February 2021 agenda item 12). He commented that the £191,000 to be awarded was more than had been expected.

 

98.

Urgent Decision Taken by the Managing Director pdf icon PDF 142 KB

Cabinet is asked to note the following urgent decision taken by the Head of Paid Service in accordance with Part 3E of the Constitution:

 

Delegation of functions relating to The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (No. 3) Regulations 2020 from the County Council to the Council

 

Decision:

RESOLVED that the report of the Managing Director is noted.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Managing Director that informed Members of a decision by the Head of Paid Service in accordance with Part 3E of the Constitution that concerned the delegation of functions relating to The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (No. 3) Regulations 2020 from the County Council to the Council.

 

RESOLVED that the report of the Managing Director is noted.

 

99.

Waste, Street Scene and Grounds Maintenance Services Options Report pdf icon PDF 760 KB

To consider the report of the Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Environment making recommendations for the delivery of Waste, Street Scene and Grounds Maintenance services beyond the current contract end date of 31 March 2022 following an independent financial review and detailed options appraisal.

 

Please note that appendices 1 and 2 are exempt from disclosure to the press and public by virtue of Paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 as amended (information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person including the authority holding that information). If Members wish to discuss appendices 1 or 2 the Cabinet will need to resolve to exclude the press and public before doing so.

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that:

 

(1)            the assessment and analysis set out in the report is received and noted;

 

(2)            the option to have the services delivered by Ubico from 1 April 2022 is approved

 

(3)            Urbaser are thanked for their co-operation and the submission of a comprehensive offer to the Council

 

(4)            the Council places on record its thanks to Amey and its staff for the way that they have sustained essential public services during the pandemic and the positive and constructive way that the company has engaged with the City Council in recent years.

 

(5)            arrangements are made to join the Ubico partnership as a shareholder

 

(6)            a detailed mobilisation plan is developed and implemented with Ubico

 

(7)            delegated authority be given to the Corporate Director (after consultation with the Cabinet Lead for Environment) to implement these decisions.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Environment that made recommendations for the delivery of Waste, Street Scene and Grounds Maintenance services beyond the current contract end date of 31st March 2022 following an independent financial review and detailed options appraisal.

 

The Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Environment outlined the background to the current contract and proposals by Urbasser Ltd and Ubico Ltd.  He emphasised the importance of the services in question to residents.  The Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Environment noted that the relationship with the current contractor, Amey/Urbasser, had markedly improved over recent years and thanked them for their achievements especially during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns.  He also expressed gratitude for the professionalism of both Urbasser and Ubico in preparing proposals and engaging fully with the consultants in the commercial and financial reviews.  The Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Environment informed Members that he believed the recommendations of the report were the fruit of a process that had been comprehensive, rigorous and fair. 

 

RESOLVED that:

 

(1)           the assessment and analysis set out in the report is received and noted;

 

(2)           the option to have the services delivered by Ubico from 1 April 2022 is approved

 

(3)           Urbaser are thanked for their co-operation and the submission of a comprehensive offer to the Council

 

(4)           the Council places on record its thanks to Amey and its staff for the way that they have sustained essential public services during the pandemic and the positive and constructive way that the company has engaged with the City Council in recent years.

 

(5)           arrangements are made to join the Ubico partnership as a shareholder

 

(6)           a detailed mobilisation plan is developed and implemented with Ubico

 

(7)           delegated authority be given to the Corporate Director (after consultation with the Cabinet Lead for Environment) to implement these decisions.

 

100.

St Oswalds Redevelopment pdf icon PDF 177 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy seeking to secure approval for the disposal of the City Council’s interest in sites pertaining to the comprehensive redevelopment of land at St Oswalds for up to 300 new homes in partnership with Rooftop Housing Association (RHA).

 

Please note that appendices B and C are exempt from disclosure to the press and public by virtue of Paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 as amended (information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person including the authority holding that information). If Members wish to discuss appendix B or C the Cabinet will need to resolve to exclude the press and public before doing so.

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

(1)            to authorise the Property Commissioning Manager, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy, Head of Policy and Resources and Head of Place:

 

a.      To accept a surrender from Tesco Stores Limited (at no more than market value) of the land edged Red on the Plan or otherwise to facilitate the transfer of that part of Tesco Stores Limited’s leasehold interest in the land edged Red to RHA

 

b.      To agree heads of terms with RHA for the disposal at best consideration of the freehold interest, or the grant of a long lease (for a term of at least 99 years from completion) in all or part of the areas of land shown edged Red, Purple and Yellow on the Plan (“the Property”) whether by one or more transactions

 

(2)            to authorise the Head of Policy and Resources to agree heads of terms with RHA for such financial agreements as may be desirable or necessary to protect payment of the purchase price negotiated under Resolution 1(b) until it is received

 

(3)            to authorise the Head of Place (insofar as they are not authorised under Resolutions 1 and 2 above, or otherwise delegated to an officer under the Constitution or lie with a Proper Officer) in consultation with the Leader of the Council, Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy, the Head of Policy and Resources and the Council Solicitor to take all necessary steps and undertake necessary procedures, including but not limited to:

 

a.      entering into any legal arrangements or other documentation as may be required to facilitate the redevelopment of the site for up to 300 new homes on the Property

 

b.      to enter into partnership working arrangements with RHA desirable to achieve the comprehensive redevelopment outcomes described in Resolution 3(a)

 

(4)            to authorise the recipients of the delegations set out in Resolutions (1)–(3) above to instruct the Council Solicitor to prepare such documents as considered appropriate to achieve the outcomes set out in those Resolutions.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy that sought to secure approval for the disposal of the City Council’s interest in sites pertaining to the comprehensive redevelopment of land at St Oswalds for up to 300 new homes in partnership with Rooftop Housing Association (RHA).

 

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy advised Members of the hard work and determination it had taken to get to this stage whereby one of Gloucester’s biggest housing schemes in recent years could be delivered.  He further informed them of his own positive experience with RHA over the last decade and highlighted their proven track record in providing over 450 new good quality homes at a number of sites across the city.  The Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy emphasised that the proposed partnership would transform a derelict site, where previous attempts at development had stalled, to deliver a substantial number of affordable homes to improve people’s lives and fulfil commitments made by the administration.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment commented that 300 new homes, with 200 being affordable, on a brownfield site would be a great thing to look forward to.  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods thanked the Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy for driving the scheme forward and confirmed that RHA had a positive reputation as a good partner, developer and landlord.  She noted that the development would go towards addressing the genuine need for homes and exceed the target set for affordable housing in the city, an achievement which she believed boded well for the future.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure expressed his own gratitude towards both the Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy and the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods as well as officers for their hard work to generate actual homes to benefit real people at this and other sites.  The Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources reminded Members that the opportunity had been made possible through prudent management of the property investment strategy.  She particularly thanked the Head of Place, Regeneration Consultant and Head of Policy and Resources.

 

RESOLVED:

 

(1)           to authorise the Property Commissioning Manager, in consultation with the Leader of the Council, Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy, Head of Policy and Resources and Head of Place:

 

a.     To accept a surrender from Tesco Stores Limited (at no more than market value) of the land edged Red on the Plan or otherwise to facilitate the transfer of that part of Tesco Stores Limited’s leasehold interest in the land edged Red to RHA

 

b.     To agree heads of terms with RHA for the disposal at best consideration of the freehold interest, or the grant of a long lease (for a term of at least 99 years from completion) in all or part of the areas of land shown edged Red, Purple and Yellow on the Plan (“the Property”) whether by one or more transactions

 

(2)           to authorise the Head  ...  view the full minutes text for item 100.

101.

Open Space and Play Areas Update pdf icon PDF 1 MB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Environment updating Members on the significant number of open space and play area improvements implemented by the City Council since 2016 using s106 payments.

Decision:

RESOLVED that progress made in developing new and improving existing open space and play area provision within the City by the successful use of s106 payment is noted.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Environment that updated Members on the significant number of open space and play area improvements implemented by the City Council since 2016 using section 106 payments.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment drew Members’ attention to the ten new play areas created and eighteen open spaces upgraded with £1.7 million of section 106 funds (3.4) as well as the £100,000 made available to clubs playing on council owned sports fields to assist with improving the quality of their pitches (3.6).  He further reassured them that he intended this level of funding to be sustained.  The Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources thanked the Open Spaces Officer for pressing forward the improvements throughout the city, not least at the new Field Court Drive Play Area where she had personally observed families benefiting from the facilities in lockdown when they are most needed.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure commented on his own experience seeing the hard work of the Open Spaces Officer including where his use of a relatively modest sum of money had created the new Lasborough Drive Play Area.

 

RESOLVED that progress made in developing new and improving existing open space and play area provision within the City by the successful use of s106 payment is noted.

 

102.

2017-2021 Council Plan Update pdf icon PDF 170 KB

To consider the report of the Leader of the Council updating Members on the delivery of the activities as outlined in the Council Plan 2017-2020, as well as the Council Plan extension 2020-2021, to make Gloucester ‘A City that Works for Everyone’.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that progress on delivery of the Council Plan 2017-2020 and Council Plan extension 2020-2021 is noted and welcomed.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Leader of the Council that apprised Members on the delivery of the activities as outlined in the Council Plan 2017-2020, as well as the Council Plan extension 2020-2021, to make Gloucester ‘A City that Works for Everyone’.

 

The Leader of the Council summarised the background to the report.  He reminded Members that 84% of the actions would be complete by May 2021, accomplished he made clear by officers, with only 1% not being progressed further.  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods reiterated the thanks due to officers for rising to the high ambition of the plans, especially considering the achievements had been made in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy offered his own gratitude to the Planning Team for advancing the City Plan to its current stage of development.  The Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Growth commented on the scale of work by officers behind the attainments revealed in what she considered an exciting update (Appendix 1).  

 

RESOLVED that progress on delivery of the Council Plan 2017-2020 and Council Plan extension 2020-2021 is noted and welcomed.

 

103.

Regeneration Update pdf icon PDF 1 MB

To consider the report of the Leader of the Council updating Members on progress in implementing the priority regeneration projects identified in the Regeneration and Economic Development Strategy 2016 – 2021.

 

Decision:

RESOLVED that the significant progress made in delivering regeneration activity since 2016 is noted.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Leader of the Council that sought to update Members on progress implementing the priority regeneration projects identified in the Regeneration and Economic Development Strategy 2016 – 2021.

 

The Leader of the Council highlighted some of the projects transforming areas, bringing new homes and contributing to major progress for the three priority zones of Kings Quarter, Blackfriars and the Docks and Quays.  He expressed no doubt that the city would continue to buzz with regeneration activity for which he thanked officers.  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods added her own thanks to the Leader of the Council who had taken the lead on regeneration.  She noted that the high ambitions set for the city could be seen on the streets to be coming to fruition even despite the pandemic.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure confirmed that the evidence was tangible and gave more examples of prominent sites such as the former British Home Stores shop on Eastgate Street and Kings Square that are currently hives of construction activity.  He reminded Members that even more regeneration was to come.  The Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy noted the inclusive nature of the regeneration, its scale and the quantity of social housing being generated.  He advised Members to be proud of what the city and administration had achieved as a team.

 

RESOLVED that the significant progress made in delivering regeneration activity since 2016 is noted.

 

104.

Housing, Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy - Strategy and Recovery Update for 2020/21 pdf icon PDF 158 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods and the Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy updating Members on the progress made towards the Housing, Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy in year one including the work on recovery from Covid-19.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that the contents of the report are noted.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods and theCabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy that updated Members on the progress made towards the Housing, Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy in year one including the work on recovery from Covid-19.

 

The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods advised Members that this was a good time to take stock as it was a year since Cabinet adopted the strategy (Cabinet 12th February 2020 minute 101).  She highlighted some of the key attainments made despite the challenges of the pandemic.  These included the city’s pivotal role in securing £3.8 million in government funding (3.11) and offering accommodation for all rough sleepers during the COVID-19 crisis (Appendix 2).  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods thanked all officers, Councillors of all parties and partnership organisations, especially P3.  She however cautioned Members to remember that despite the significant achievements there remained more to do to in the ambition towards preventing homelessness and driving up accommodation standards, including in the private sector.

 

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy informed Members that he had been inspired by the determination, ideas and drive for high standards of the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods.  He emphasised that what had been achieved in difficult circumstances, such as exceeding the target for providing affordable homes (agenda item 24 Appendix 1 CGD-16), was down to teamwork among officers, partners and residents as well as Members who had adopted an inclusive non-political approach.  The Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources paid tribute to the resolve of the Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy but especially to that of the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods.  She commented that the legacy of the latter would be tremendous ranging from completed projects such as the Potters Place housing scheme to the Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) approach to working practice now embedded across the Council.  The Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Growth reiterated the praise for the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods and noted that the Cabinet Member’s work during the pandemic had demonstrated her relentless pursuit to improve the lives of the people of Gloucester.

 

RESOLVED that the contents of the report are noted.

 

105.

The Great Place Programme pdf icon PDF 342 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure seeking Members to note that the 3-year Great Place Programme delivered between 2017 and 2021 is coming to a close and report on the results of the independent evaluation on the successful delivery and significant impact of the programme in Gloucester.

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that:

 

(1)            the significant positive impact of the Great Place Programme is noted and welcomed

 

(2)            everyone involved in delivering the Programme is thanked for the roles they have played in the achievement

 

(3)            when a suitable opportunity arises, efforts are made to formally celebrate the achievements of the Great Place Programme.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure that sought Members to note that the 3-year Great Place Programme delivered between 2017 and 2021 was coming to a close and report on the results of the independent evaluation on the successful delivery and significant impact of the programme in Gloucester.

 

The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure advised Members that Gloucester was now widely recognised as a place on the `cultural map’ and external organisations had shown their faith in the city with increased funding which was in no small part due to the hard work and passion of the former Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure the late Councillor Lise Noakes.  He drew Members’ attention to the independent evaluation (appendix 1) and especially the 9% increase in the number of people expressing pride in the city and its finding that Gloucester had made exceptional progress in a short amount of time.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure noted that the whole city had and would continue to benefit from growing cultural activity and investment for which he thanked all officers, partner organisations and the funding bodies but especially the Gloucester Culture Trust and its trustees.  The Cabinet Member for Environment commented that both culture and regeneration had shown a similar progression forwards in the city and he looked forward to its continuation.  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods informed Members that she too had noticed an increased confidence and positivity in the city which demonstrated Councillor Noakes had been right in her belief in what Gloucester could become.

 

RESOLVED that:

 

(1)           the significant positive impact of the Great Place Programme is noted and welcomed

 

(2)           everyone involved in delivering the Programme is thanked for the roles they have played in the achievement

 

(3)           when a suitable opportunity arises, efforts are made to formally celebrate the achievements of the Great Place Programme.

 

106.

Cultural Strategy 5 Year Update pdf icon PDF 368 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure providing an overview of progress made against the Cultural Strategy for the period 2016 – 2020 and presenting the revised version of Gloucester’s Cultural Vision & Strategy for the period 2021-2026.

 

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that:

 

(1)            the report is accepted and progress against the objectives and actions noted

 

(2)            the changes to the original strategy are noted

 

(3)            the updated Cultural Strategy for the next five years is accepted and recommended to Council for adoption.

 

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure that provided an overview of progress made against the Cultural Strategy for the period 2016 – 2020 and presented the revised version of Gloucester’s Cultural Vision & Strategy for the period 2021-2026.

 

The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure reminded Members of the importance of this key strategy and it being ambitious.  He stated that refreshment was critical to reflect change in areas such as the environment and engaging young people.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure acknowledged the adverse effects of COVID-19 on culture and advised that the revised strategy represented a first step forwards.  He thanked officers, the Head of Cultural Services and Gloucester Culture Trust for their hard work and dedication in laying a sound foundation from which to advance culture for the good of all in Gloucester.  The Cabinet Member for Environment reiterated that it was right for culture to be at the heart of the city and looked forward to its progress over coming years.

 

RESOLVED that:

 

(1)           the report is accepted and progress against the objectives and actions noted

 

(2)           the changes to the original strategy are noted

 

(3)           the updated Cultural Strategy for the next five years is accepted and recommended to Council for adoption.

 

 

107.

Museum Development Plan 2021-2026 pdf icon PDF 240 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure presenting the Museum of Gloucester Development Plan 2021 – 2026.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that the report is welcomed and that the plan is adopted.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure that presented the Museum of Gloucester Development Plan 2021 – 2026.

 

The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure identified partnership, audience development and sustainability, both financial and environmental, as critical to moving the museum forward.  He drew Members’ attention to the clearly itemised priorities (appendix 1) intended to facilitate performance monitoring and fundraising.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure offered gratitude to all officers and the Head of Culture for their teamwork in producing the plan.  The Cabinet Member for Environment commented that he expected to see great change for the better at the Museum of Gloucester.

 

RESOLVED that the report is welcomed and that the plan is adopted.

 

108.

High Street Heritage Action Zone (Cathedral Quarter) Update pdf icon PDF 263 KB

To consider the report of the Leader of the Council updating Members on the progress of the Historic England funded High Street Heritage Action Zone scheme in Gloucester’s Westgate known as Cathedral Quarter.

Decision:

RESOLVED it is noted that:

 

(1)            the scheme is making excellent progress despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic

 

(2)            the scheme will make a significant contribution to the post Covid-19 recovery of the city centre economy

 

(3)            due to the strong performance of the Cathedral Quarter programme, Gloucester has an opportunity to increase the level of funding from Historic England.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Leader of the Council that updated Members on the progress of the Historic England funded High Street Heritage Action Zone scheme in Gloucester’s Westgate known as Cathedral Quarter.

 

The Leader of the Council highlighted the projects undertaken despite the challenges of COVID-19 and advised Members that Historic England were so impressed with progress that they were seeking to increase their funding.  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods noted the faith demonstrated by the extra funding and that money had been received from the Future High Street Fund established by government.  She commented that this was another case that revealed the high regard for Gloucester held outside of the city enabling the Council to punch above its weight nationally.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure reminded Members that this was yet another successful project reliant on partnership.  He stated that the historic Westgate Street deserved investment so that even more people can enjoy what it has to offer as they had done in the very popular Cultural Programme pilot event offered as part of the Gloucester History Festival in 2020 (4.7).  The Leader of the Council informed Members that the 3D artworks employed in that event were in storage so that they could be used again to the same effect.  The Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Growth advised Members that as a member of the project Steering Group she had seen the impressive depth of research conducted into the Westgate buildings by a team she understood to be widely seen as the best in the South West.

 

RESOLVED it is noted that:

 

(1)           the scheme is making excellent progress despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic

 

(2)           the scheme will make a significant contribution to the post Covid-19 recovery of the city centre economy

 

(3)           due to the strong performance of the Cathedral Quarter programme, Gloucester has an opportunity to increase the level of funding from Historic England.

 

109.

Stronger and Safer Gloucester Partnership Update pdf icon PDF 166 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods updating Members on the work of the Stronger and Safer Gloucester Partnership during 2020/21.

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that the work of the Stronger Safer Gloucester Partnership is welcomed.    

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods that apprised Members of the work of the Stronger and Safer Gloucester Partnership during 2020/21.

 

The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods reminded Members that the Council’s best work was often done through collaboration and partnership, this being no exception.  She highlighted some of the most successful projects, all derived from issues that residents see as important to them.  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods thanked the Corporate Director, partner organisations and especially the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for their support.  She further commented that this Partnership had brought people and agencies together so effectively as to become recognised as one of the best in the country.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure reiterated that the Partnership had demonstrated what could be achieved through working together to do good for the people of the city.

 

RESOLVED that the work of the Stronger Safer Gloucester Partnership is welcomed.    

 

110.

Annual Report on the Grant Funding Provided to the Voluntary Sector pdf icon PDF 172 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods outlining the Council’s financial contributions towards the voluntary and community sector during the year 2020/21.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that the report is noted and the same approach is endorsed for the 2021/22 year.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods that outlined the Council’s financial contributions towards the voluntary and community sector during the year 2020/21.

 

The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods gave Members an overview of the grants distributed despite the financial challenges of the year.  She commented that it demonstrated the seriousness with which supporting communities and the voluntary sector was and will be taken.  The Cabinet Member for Environment reminded Members of the scale of the distribution, £124,473.80, and the great work it enabled.

 

RESOLVED that the report is noted and the same approach is endorsed for the 2021/22 year.

 

111.

Environmental Crime Enforcement Update Report pdf icon PDF 148 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Environment updating Members on the current approach to the enforcement of environmental crime within Gloucester.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that the actions being taken to prevent or reduce the environmental crime within the City of Gloucester is noted.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Environment that updated Members on the current approach to the enforcement of environmental crime within Gloucester.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment advised Members of the background to the appointment of 3GS to tackle environmental crime in 2019.  He highlighted the actions taken since and the priority to address environmental crime and waste offences in future.

 

RESOLVED that the actions being taken to prevent or reduce the environmental crime within the City of Gloucester is noted.

 

112.

Crematorium and Bereavement Services Update pdf icon PDF 331 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Environment seeking to provide an update on activities of the crematorium and bereavement services during 2020.

Decision:

RESOLVED that the report is noted and the excellent service provided during 2020 whilst responding to the COVID19 pandemic is recognised.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Environment that sought to provide an update on activities of the crematorium and bereavement services during 2020.

 

The Cabinet Member for Environment drew Members’ attention to the improvements completed and accreditation awarded (3.2) despite the extremely difficult circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.  That 2,011 cremation services and 348 burials had been conducted at the same time was, he stated, a credit to the team.  The Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources reminded Members that the lockdowns continued to bring additional pressures to grieving families with whom the team has shown empathy and professionalism.  She thanked them for it.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure informed Members that he had been in awe at their professionalism before the pandemic, and was even more so now.

 

RESOLVED that the report is noted and the excellent service provided during 2020 whilst responding to the COVID19 pandemic is recognised.

 

113.

Review of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) pdf icon PDF 291 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods seeking to provide a review of the use of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) across the City and outline future actions, with regard to current legislation and government guidance, following a review of the use of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) in the past year.

Decision:

RESOLVED that:

 

(1)            generally, PSPOs are not required to be brought to Cabinet or Council for approval or amendment unless there are exceptional circumstances. Delegation has already been agreed by full Council in 2018 that the Head of Communities and Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods have authority to sign off on PSPOs

 

(2)            City wide restrictions currently in place to deal with alcohol and dog related nuisance will be renewed for a further 3 years

 

(3)            the suitability of standalone PSPOs or other means of resolution are considered as appropriate for other nuisance issues raised to the City Council, and delegations as above are used to implement any new measures

 

(4)            Cabinet continue to endorse the Council’s “engage, support, enforce” approach as its primary means of dealing with street-based nuisance, with PSPOs used as a supporting tool.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods that sought to provide a review of the use of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) across the city and outlined future actions, with regard to current legislation and government guidance, following a review of the use of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) in the past year.

 

The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods stated that it was important to review the progress of the PSPOs three years since their introduction and further review them three years hence in the spirit of transparency.  She advised Members that the PSPOs had proved to be a successful tool for partner organisations to do great work and helped drive up standards of behaviour in the city.  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods commented on the particular success tackling the consumption of alcohol in public places where the PSPOs provided the opportunity to engage with people and understand underlying issues to improve their lives.  She further expressed the hope that this holistic approach of engagement and support to help people as well as their behaviour would be continued and extended as issues such as street drinking in Kingsholm and fake charity collectors are addressed.  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods thanked Members for their support, Councillors of all parties and especially the Community Wellbeing Team Leader who had been pivotal in progressing this work for the benefit of all residents.

 

The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure reiterated that although the introduction of PSPOs had been a bold move they had proven themselves by making Gloucester a better place.  The Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Growth informed Members of her own experience of their success in Westgate.  She made it clear that this was attributed to the holistic approach of listening to communities and engaging with people suffering complex problems in order to support them.  The Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy commented that both the report and the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods epitomised the words of the maxim: some see things as they are and say why whereas others see what they ought to be and say why not.

 

RESOLVED that:

 

(1)           generally, PSPOs are not required to be brought to Cabinet or Council for approval or amendment unless there are exceptional circumstances. Delegation has already been agreed by full Council in 2018 that the Head of Communities and Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods have authority to sign off on PSPOs

 

(2)           City wide restrictions currently in place to deal with alcohol and dog related nuisance will be renewed for a further 3 years

 

(3)           the suitability of standalone PSPOs or other means of resolution are considered as appropriate for other nuisance issues raised to the City Council, and delegations as above are used to implement any new measures

 

(4)           Cabinet continue to endorse the Council’s “engage, support, enforce” approach as its primary means of dealing with street-based nuisance, with PSPOs used as a supporting  ...  view the full minutes text for item 113.

114.

Performance Monitoring Quarter 3 - 2020/21 pdf icon PDF 232 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources informing Members of the Council’s performance against key measures in Quarter 3 of 2020/21.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that the Quarter 3 Performance Report 2020/21 at Appendix 1 to the report is noted.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources that informed Members of the Council’s performance against key measures in Quarter 3 of 2020/21.

 

The Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources outlined the trends revealed in each portfolio.  The Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy highlighted the surpassing of planning application determination targets (appendix 1 CGD-22, CGD-23) of which he was particularly proud.

 

RESOLVED that the Quarter 3 Performance Report 2020/21 at Appendix 1 to the report is noted.

 

115.

Financial Monitoring - Quarter 3, 2020/21 pdf icon PDF 669 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources seeking Members to note year-end forecasts, and the financial pressures on the Council during the 3rd Quarter ended 31st December 2021.

Additional documents:

Decision:

RESOLVED that it is noted that:

 

(1)           the forecast year end position is currently for a decrease to the Council’s General Fund balance of £222k against a budgeted decrease of £49k

 

(2)           the uncertainty surrounding the exact levels of grant income to be received from Government will affect the eventual financial outcome for the year

 

(3)           the details of specific budgetary issues identified by officers and the actions being taken to address those issues

 

(4)           the current level of Capital expenditure as shown in Appendix 2 to the report.

 

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources that sought Members to note year-end forecasts, and the financial pressures on the Council during the 3rd Quarter ended 31st December 2021.

 

The Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources summarised the report.  She noted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic which had placed all portfolios overbudget and that the forecast position included an assumption of 75 pence in the pound of reimbursement from central government regarding pandemic related expenses.

 

RESOLVED that it is noted that:

 

(1)          the forecast year end position is currently for a decrease to the Council’s General Fund balance of £222k against a budgeted decrease of £49k

 

(2)          the uncertainty surrounding the exact levels of grant income to be received from Government will affect the eventual financial outcome for the year

 

(3)          the details of specific budgetary issues identified by officers and the actions being taken to address those issues

 

(4)          the current level of Capital expenditure as shown in Appendix 2 to the report.

 

 

116.

Treasury Management Strategy 2021/22 pdf icon PDF 150 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources seeking Members to formally recommend that Council approves the Treasury Management Strategy, the prudential indicators and to note the Treasury activities.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

RECOMMENDED to Council that the Treasury Management Strategy be approved.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources that sought Members to formally recommend that Council approves the Treasury Management Strategy, prudential indicators and notes the Treasury activities.

 

The Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources summarised the report.  She advised Members that the strategy continued operating in an under-borrowed position.

 

RECOMMENDED to Council that the Treasury Management Strategy be approved.

 

117.

Capital Strategy 2021/22 pdf icon PDF 142 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources seeking Members to formally recommend that Council approves the Capital Strategy 2021/22.

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

RECOMMENDED to Council that the Capital Strategy be approved.

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources that sought Members to recommend that Council approves the Capital Strategy 2021/22.

 

The Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources highlighted the key features of the report and the core principles that underpinned it.  She thanked the Head of Policy and Resources, Accountancy Manager and the Finance Team for their hard work.  The Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure reminded Members of the importance of this and the Treasury Management Strategy (agenda item 26) to the running of the authority.  He noted how the prudent and sensible measures adopted would safeguard taxpayers’ money and reduce any necessity to raise Council Tax.  The Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods commented that it was the good work of the Finance Team and Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources on the Capital and related strategies that gave the council the confidence to deliver the best possible services for the public.  The Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy related his experience as former Chair of the Audit and Governance Committee when the independent auditors had consistently praised the quality of the work presented to them.

 

RECOMMENDED to Council that the Capital Strategy be approved.

118.

Pay Policy Statement 2021/22 pdf icon PDF 138 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources seeking a recommendation to approve the Council’s Pay Policy Statement for 2021/22.        

 

Additional documents:

Decision:

RECOMMENDED to Council that the Pay Policy Statement for 2021/22 attached as Appendix 1 to the report be approved.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Performance and Resources that sought a recommendation for Council to approve the Pay Policy Statement for 2021/22.

 

RECOMMENDED to Council that the Pay Policy Statement for 2021/22 attached as Appendix 1 to the report be approved.

 

119.

Revised Gloucester Local Development Scheme 2021-2023 pdf icon PDF 166 KB

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy seeking to recommend to Council the adoption of the Gloucester Local Development Scheme 2021-2023, which updates the timetable for the preparation and adoption of the Gloucester City Plan and Joint Core Strategy Review.

Additional documents:

Decision:

RECOMMENDED to Councilthat the revised Gloucester Local Development Scheme (Appendix 1 to the report) is adopted by the Council and takes effect immediately.

 

Minutes:

Cabinet considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy that sought Members to recommend Council adopt the Gloucester Local Development Scheme 2021-2023, which updates the timetable for the preparation and adoption of the Gloucester City Plan and Joint Core Strategy Review.

 

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing Strategy summarised the report and advised Members of the urgency of the recommendations due to the imminent examination of the City Plan by the Planning Inspectorate. 

 

RECOMMENDED to Councilthat the revised Gloucester Local Development Scheme (Appendix 1 to the report) is adopted by the Council and takes effect immediately.

 

120.

Concluding Remarks

Minutes:

The Leader of the Council reminded Members that this had been the last Cabinet meeting of the current electoral cycle.  On behalf of Cabinet he took the opportunity to thank all officers, Directors and Heads of Service for their support.  The Leader of the Council expressed particular gratitude to the Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods and Corporate Director for whom it had been their final Gloucester Cabinet meeting.  He highlighted the legacy of the latter having transformed the relationship with the waste contractor and working culture of the authority for the better.