Agenda and minutes

1  To highlight reports or appendices which officers have identified as containing exempt information within the meaning of Section 100I of the Local Government Act 1972, and where officers consider that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information, for the reasons outlined in the report.

2  To consider whether or not to accept the officers recommendation in respect of the above information.

3  If the recommendation is accepted, to formally pass the following resolution:-

RESOLVED –  That, in accordance with Regulation 4 of the Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of those parts of the agenda designated as exempt  on the grounds that it is likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted or the nature of the proceedings, that if members of the press and public were present there would be disclosure to them of exempt information.

RESOLVED – That, in accordance with Regulation 4 of The Local Authorities (Executive Arrangements) (Meetings and Access to Information) (England) Regulations 2012, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following parts of the agenda designated as exempt from publication on the grounds that it is likely, in view of the nature of the business to be transacted or the nature of the proceedings, that if members of the public were present there would be disclosure to them of exempt information so designated as follows:-

(a)  That Appendices 2a and 2b to the report entitled, ‘Provision of a Loan Facility to Donisthorpe Hall Nursing Home’, referred to in Minute No. 19 be designated as exempt from publication in accordance with paragraph 10.4(3) of Schedule 12A(3) of the Local Government Act 1972 on the grounds that it contains information relating to the commercial and business activities of Donisthorpe Hall and was used for the purpose of the Council undertaking it’s due diligence processes. The information used for such due diligence processes includes confidential information commissioned by the Charity for the purpose of restructuring its finances, and as such, it is deemed that the public interest in exempting this information from publication outweighs the public interest in disclosure.

No formal late items of business were added to the agenda, however, prior to the meeting, Board Members were in receipt of supplementary information in respect of agenda item 18 (Submission of the Leeds Core Strategy Selective Review (CSSR)) which provided the Board with the outcomes from the respective consideration of the CSSR by Development Plan Panel and also Scrutiny Board (Infrastructure, Investment & Inclusive Growth), both of which met to consider this matter respectively on 20^th June 2018. (Minute No. 17 refers).

In addition, prior to the meeting, Board Members were in receipt of a re-circulated version of the ‘Outcome of Consultation to Increase Learning Places at Moor Allerton Hall Primary School’ cover report, as parts of sections 3.13-3.14 and 4.3 of the original version had been either mis-formatted or had some text missing. (Minute No. 29 refers).

To disclose or draw attention to any disclosable pecuniary interests for the purposes of Section 31 of the Localism Act 2011 and paragraphs 13-16 of the Members’ Code of Conduct.

No declarations of disclosable pecuniary interests were made at the meeting.

To confirm as a correct record the minutes of the meeting held on 18^th April 2018.

RESOLVED – That the minutes of the previous meeting held on 18^th April 2018 be approved as a correct record.

To consider the report of the Director of Communities and Environment which provides an update on the activities of the national Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) within Leeds, together with an updated action plan.

Further to Minute No. 9, 21^st June 2017, the Director of Communities and Environment submitted a report which provides an update on the activities of the national Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) within Leeds, and presented an updated version of the associated action plan.

Members highlighted the crucial work that the team were undertaking, and emphasised the key role played by Leeds Credit Union within communities.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, the Board received details on the number of prosecutions which had been secured as a result of the team’s actions, and with regard to the number of individuals that had been supported by the team, it was undertaken that further information on this would be provided to the Member in question.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report together with the IMLT Action Plan, as set out within appendix 1, be noted;

(b)  That the Director of Communities and Environment be requested to monitor the progress made by the Illegal Money Lending Team against the plan;

(c)  That a further report detailing the activities of the Illegal Money Lending Team within Leeds be submitted to the Board in 12 months’ time.

(Councillor R Lewis joined the meeting at the conclusion of this item)

To consider a report of the Director of Communities and Environment outlining an opportunity to receive around £72k funding from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for the provision of 6 non-turf cricket pitches in parks and green spaces.

The Director of Communities and Environment submitted a report outlining an opportunity to receive around £72k of funding from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for the provision of 6 non-turf cricket pitches in parks and green spaces.

Members welcomed the proposal detailed within the submitted report and the fact that there was no restriction from the funding criteria as to which areas of the city could potentially benefit from the pitches.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to accept the ECB funding and enter into an agreement to develop non-turf cricket pitches in relevant parks, recreation grounds and playing pitches in line with the ECB offer;

(b)  That approval be given to carry out a consultation exercise in order to determine suitable site locations;

(c)  That future decisions on this project be delegated to the Chief Officer, Parks and Countryside;

(d)  That it be noted that the Chief Officer, Parks and Countryside is responsible for the implementation of these proposals, which are anticipated to be in place by summer 2019.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development presenting the Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy 2018 – 2023, which has been finalised following the latest round of consultation. The report seeks the Board’s approval to adopt and publish the finalised version of the Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy, as appended to the covering report. 

Further to Minute No. 37, 17^th July 2017, the Director of City Development submitted a report presenting the Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy 2018 – 2023, which had been finalised following the latest round of consultation. The report sought the Board’s approval to adopt and publish the finalised version of the Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy, as appended to the covering report.

In presenting the submitted report, the Chair suggested that further update reports regarding the progress being made be submitted to the Board in due course which focussed upon each of the Strategy’s ‘Big Ideas’ and which detailed the impact that the work behind the strategy was having.

Members welcomed the proposed strategy, highlighting the potential it had to facilitate further partnership working across sectors in order to maximise enablement for all communities throughout the city. The Board also welcomed how the strategy linked to other priority agendas such as health and wellbeing; cultural provision and children and young people.

Members received further details on the proposed convenor role amongst other partners and sectors that the Council would play in moving this agenda forward. In addition, emphasis was placed upon the ‘federal’ nature of the Leeds economy, highlighting the level of economic activity located outside of the city centre.

In conclusion, on behalf of the Board, the Chair extended her thanks to those officers who had developed the strategy to its current position. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the finalised version of the Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy 2018 – 2023, as appended to the submitted report, be agreed, and that approval also be given for the Strategy’s publication;

(b)  That approval be given for the Director of City Development to lead on implementing the delivery of the Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy;

(c)  That further update reports regarding the progress being made be submitted to the Board in due course which focussed upon each of the Strategy’s ‘Big Ideas’ and detailed the impact that the work behind the strategy was having.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which sets out recommendations on how the Council can support the provision of workspace for SME and creative businesses in Leeds City Centre in order to achieve ambitions as set out in the Best Council Plan and Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which presented a series of recommendations on how the Council could support the provision of workspaces for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and creative businesses in Leeds City Centre.

It was highlighted that the proposals detailed within the submitted report looked to achieve the ambitions as set out within the Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy (Minute No. 7 refers), and it was noted that the Director of City Development would return to the Board with proposals regarding the redevelopment of Aire Street Workshops and the Engine House, following the expression of interest stage.

The Board highlighted the important role played by SMEs and creative businesses in the city, and in reiterating the ‘federal’ nature of the Leeds economy, Members highlighted the need to ensure that affordable accommodation for SMEs and creative businesses were available throughout the city.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to reaffirm the Council’s commitment to a city centre that includes a diversity of uses and has affordable and accessible spaces for new, creative businesses;

(b)  That approval be given for the Director of City Development to invite Expressions of Interest for the redevelopment / refurbishment of Aire Street Workshops and the Engine House, as per the principles as contained within paragraph 3.2.1 of the submitted report;

(c)  That the Director of City Development be requested to report backwith recommendations on the preferred way forward for the redevelopment of Aire Street Workshops and the Engine House upon the conclusion of the Expression of Interest stage;

(d)  That the Director of City Development be requested to work with stakeholders in order to develop longer term plans to support the delivery of workspaces for creative and start-up businesses in the city centre, which can inform the creation of a small grants programme as part of the consideration of next year’s Capital Programme;

(e)  That it be noted that the Chief Asset Management and Regeneration Officer will be responsible for the implementation of such matters.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development seeking approval to develop work with partners to deliver transformation at the waterfront in support of the city’s cultural and economic aspirations.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which sought approval to develop work with partners in order to deliver transformation in the waterfront area of Leeds, which would look to support the city’s cultural and economic aspirations.

Members welcomed the submitted report, and in noting how rivers and waterways passed through a number of communities across the city, it was suggested that a further report be submitted to the Board in due course which explored the potential and the opportunities to maximise the benefit arising from such waterways, both for local communities and the city as a whole.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Waterfront Charter, as appended to the submitted report be supported, and that in doing so:-

(i)  Approval be given to the formation of a Waterfront Investment Fund, as per the principles outlined at paragraph 3.3.6 of the submitted report, with approval also being given to provide authority to spend up to £100,000 from Capital Programme Scheme 32672 for this purpose; and

(ii)  Agreement be given that the Council works with partners in order to establish an owner/occupier forum comprising parties with an interest in the waterfront to help to deliver the Charter.

(b)  That it be noted that the Director of City Development is responsible for the implementation of such matters;

(c)  That a further report be submitted to the Board in due course which explores the potential and the opportunities to maximise the benefit arising from the rivers and waterways which run throughout Leeds, both for local communities and the city as a whole.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development outlining the steps that the city has taken in response to the decision by the European Commission to cancel the UK competition for European Capital of Culture. The report summarises the work undertaken by officers to establish the appropriate vehicle for taking forward Leeds 2023 plans, outside of the framework of the European Commission regulations.

Further to Minute No. 76, 18^th October 2017, the Director of City Development submitted a report outlining the steps that the city had taken in response to the decision by the European Commission to cancel the UK competition for European Capital of Culture. In addition, the report summarised the work undertaken by officers to establish the appropriate vehicle for taking forward Leeds 2023 plans, outside of the framework of the European Commission regulations.

With regard to an enquiry regarding the Council representation on the Trust, emphasis was placed upon the value of continuing a cross-party approach towards the 2023 initiative.

Members also received an update regarding a new funding stream which had been recently announced by the Arts Council (Cultural Development Fund), which the Council intended to submit a bid for.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the overall progress made in taking forward ‘Leeds 2023’ plans, as detailed within the submitted report, be noted;

(b)  That officers be requested to:-

(i)  Work alongside colleagues in legal and financial services in order to develop ‘Leeds Culture Trust’ as the delivery vehicle for Leeds 2023, and to develop a Service Level Agreement between the Council and Leeds Culture Trust which reflects the Council as a major funder;

(ii)  Support the Leeds Culture Trust to secure charitable status and commence the search and recruitment process for a Chair and full Board of Trustees, to be in place by early 2019;

(iii)  Return with a report on further progress at the appropriate time, when a new Chair and Trustees are appointed and when the work of the 2023 independent steering group reaches an end.

(c)  That it be noted that the Chief Officer, Culture and Sport is responsible for the implementation of such matters.

(Councillor Rafique left the meeting at the conclusion of this item)

To consider the report of the Chief Officer, Financial Services setting out the Council’s financial outturn position for 2017/18 for both revenue and capital, including the Housing Revenue Account and expenditure on schools. In addition, the report seeks approval of the creation of earmarked reserves and which looks to delegate their release to the Chief Officer Financial Services.

The Chief Officer, Financial Services submitted a report setting out the Council’s financial outturn position for 2017/18 for both revenue and capital, including the Housing Revenue Account and expenditure on schools. In addition, the report also sought approval of the creation of earmarked reserves and which looked to delegate their release to the Chief Officer, Financial Services.

In response to a Member’s enquiry, the Board received further detail regarding the 2017/18 outturn in respect of schools’ extended services and partnerships balances. The Board also received an update on the current position regarding proposals to implement collection route efficiencies within the refuse service.

In noting the effect that the backdated sports admission VAT receipt from HMRC had had on the outturn position and the Council’s reserves, an enquiry was made regarding the priorities for the allocation of resource moving forward. In response, it was highlighted that the intention was to submit the Medium Term Financial Strategy to the 25^th July Board meeting, and this would propose how the Council’s General Reserve, which contained the VAT receipt, was to be used.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the outturn position for 2017/18, as detailed within the submitted report, be noted;

(b)  That the creation of earmarked reserves, as detailed in paragraphs 3.16 and 5.3 of the submitted report be approved, and that their release be delegated to the Chief Officer, Financial Services;

(c)  That it be noted that the Chief Officer, Financial Services will be responsible for the implementation of such matters, following the conclusion of the ‘call in’ period.

To consider the report of the Chief Officer, Financial Services setting out the Council’s projected financial health position for 2018/19 as at month 2.

The Chief Officer, Financial Services submitted a report setting out the Council’s projected financial health position for 2018/19, as at month 2 of the financial year.

Responding to an enquiry regarding proposals to implement collection route efficiencies within the refuse service, it was highlighted that should such efficiencies not be made in 2018/19, then alternative actions would be taken with the aim of balancing the directorate budget by the end of the financial year, whilst it was also noted that further detail in respect of the Communities and Environment directorate budget would be available in forthcoming budget monitoring reports to the Board, once greater information was available in respect of specific demand led costs.

Members also received an update regarding the current position of the Children and Families directorate budget.

RESOLVED – That the projected financial position of the authority for 2018/19, as at month 2, and as detailed within the submitted report, be noted.

To consider the report of the Chief Officer Financial Services which provides a final update on the Council’s Treasury Management Strategy and operations for the period 2017/18.

The Chief Officer Financial Services submitted a report which provides a final update on the Council’s Treasury Management Strategy and operations for the period 2017/18.

The intention to further consider the Council’s debt portfolio and debt costs in the year ahead was noted. A request for future reports to identify the value of the Council’s assets which separately identified schools and Council housing was also noted.

RESOLVED – That the Treasury Management outturn position for 2017/18, as detailed within the submitted report be noted, together with the fact that treasury activity has remained within the Council’s Treasury Management strategy and policy framework.

To consider the joint report of the Director of City Development and the Director of Resources and Housing providing information on the sums accumulated within the CIL strategic fund, as set out in table 1 of the report, and how it is being invested.

The Director of City Development and the Director of Resources and Housing submitted a joint report providing information on the sums accumulated within the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) strategic fund, as set out in table 1 of the submitted report, and how it was being invested.

In response to a Member’s enquiry, the Board noted that based on current information, the funding gap for the Council regarding the provision of school places was currently £71.7m.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the investment of the CIL strategic fund, as set out in table 1 of the submitted report, to be used to contribute towards the learning places deficit for schools, be noted;

(b)  That it be noted that the responsible officer for the implementation of such investment is the Chief Officer (Financial Services).

To consider the joint report of the Director of Resources and Housing, the Director of City Development, the Director of Communities and Environment and the Director of Public Health providing an overview of the consultation responses received on the Clean Air Charging Zone (CAZ) proposal; detailing how the first stage of consultation responses have been considered and how these are reflected within the updated proposal; detailing the funding request to central government for both the required infrastructure and the support measures to mitigate economic impact; outlining the process to reaching approval for both the Full Business Case and the Traffic Scheme; and detailing the required changes to licensing conditions for taxi and private hire to align conditions with CAZ compliant engine standards.

Further to Minute No. 122, 13^th December 2017, the Director of Resources and Housing, the Director of City Development, the Director of Communities and Environment and the Director of Public Health submitted a joint report providing an overview of the consultation responses received on the Clean Air Charging Zone (CAZ) proposal; detailed how the first stage of consultation responses had been considered and how these were reflected within the updated proposal. In addition, the report outlined the funding request to central government for both the required infrastructure and the support measures to mitigate economic impact; detailed the process to reaching approval for both the Full Business Case and the Traffic Scheme; and presented the required changes to licensing conditions for taxi and private hire vehicles to align conditions with CAZ compliant engine standards.

In presenting the submitted report the Executive Member for Resources and Sustainability recommended that a further report be submitted to the 25^th July 2018 Board meeting which set out a broader range of proposals not covered by the CAZ for the improvement of air quality throughout the city.

Responding to a Member’s specific enquiry, the Board received further information on the process and rationale which had led to the proposal to amend the boundary for the CAZ. It was noted that the amended boundary was being proposed in response to the consultation undertaken, and that the revised boundary did not have any adverse impact upon the delivery of the required outcomes. It was also noted that the revised boundary aimed to ensure that it was clear and easily navigable and looked to avoid any unintended consequences (eg. ‘rat-running’).

Also, in noting the proposals affecting taxis and private hire vehicles and the need to ensure a consistency of approach for such vehicles whether they be registered with Leeds or with another Authority, Members highlighted that it was essential for the Government to establish a national register for such vehicles, with it being noted that confirmation had been received from Government that they were working to address this issue, whilst Members also highlighted that the Local Government Association were making representations to Government on such matters.

In addition, Members also noted that a substantial funding package was also being sought from Government in order to help facilitate the introduction of the related measures.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, it was undertaken that at the appropriate stage, liaison could take place with community groups in order to provide guidance around CAZ compliancy and exemption categories.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to entering into a period of statutory public consultation on the proposed clean air zone and the enforcement of anti-idling;

(b)  That approval be given to entering into a period of public consultation on the introduction of the enforcement of anti-vehicle idling;

(c)  That approval be given to entering into a period of consultation with regard to the proposed changes to the licensing conditions for taxis and private hire vehicles;

(d)  That  ...  view the full minutes text for item 15.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which provides a summary of the progress made to date on the proposed works to the Playhouse and the public realm redevelopment and enhancement works at Gateway Court and Playhouse Square. The report also seeks approval to inject additional funding into existing Capital Scheme Nos. 32019 and 32804 and to authorise expenditure on the proposed works to the Playhouse and public realm works.

Further to Minute No. 57, 20^th September 2017, the Director of City Development submitted a report which provided a summary of the progress made to date on the proposed works to the Playhouse and the public realm redevelopment and enhancement works at Gateway Court and Playhouse Square. The submitted report also sought approval to inject additional funding into existing Capital Scheme Nos. 32019 and 32804 and to authorise expenditure on the proposed works to the Playhouse and public realm works.

Members were supportive of the proposals, and highlighted the important role of the Playhouse in the cultural offer of Leeds. In discussing the redevelopment and the future role of the Playhouse, emphasis was placed upon the need to ensure that it was an inclusive and accessible asset for the whole city.

Responding to a Member’s comments, clarification was provided that the Playhouse continued to produce work, whilst the redevelopment was taking place, with a briefing being offered to the Member in question.

Finally, it was noted that the theatre had recently been renamed the ‘Leeds Playhouse’.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That an injection of £1.280m into the existing Capital Scheme No. 32019 towards the cost of refurbishing and reconfiguring the West Yorkshire Playhouse, be authorised;

(b)  That a fully funded injection of £550,000 from the West Yorkshire Playhouse into the existing Capital Scheme No. 32019 towards the cost of refurbishing and reconfiguring the West Yorkshire Playhouse, be authorised;

(c)  That ‘Authority to Spend’ of £1.830m from Capital Scheme No. 32019 towards the cost of refurbishing and reconfiguring the West Yorkshire Playhouse, be approved;

(d)  That an injection of £0.160m into existing Capital Scheme No. 32804 towards the cost of the proposed public realm redevelopment and enhancement works at Gateway Court and Playhouse Square, be authorised;

(e)  That ‘Authority to Spend’ of £0.160 from Capital Scheme No. 32804 for the proposed public realm redevelopment and enhancement works at Gateway Court and Playhouse Square, be approved;

(f)  That subject to consultation being undertaken with the Executive Member for Economy and Culture, the necessary authority be delegated to the Director of City Development and the Chief Officer Financial Services in order to negotiate and approve the final terms associated with the receipt of the West Yorkshire Playhouse’s financial contribution to the proposed works to refurbish and reconfigure the playhouse building;

(g)  That approval be given to exempt the resolutions contained within this minute from the Call In process, for the reasons of urgency as detailed within sections 4.5.1 – 4.5.2 of the submitted report, and as it is considered that any delay in implementing such resolutions will prejudice the Council’s interests;

(h)  That the following be noted:-

(i)  The actions required to implement the above resolutions;

(ii)  The proposed timescales to progress the project, as detailed in paragraph 3.9 of the submitted report; and

(iii)  That the Chief Officer, Culture and Sport will be responsible for the implementation of such matters.

(The Council’s Executive and Decision Making Procedure Rules state that a decision  ...  view the full minutes text for item 16.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which seeks approval from Executive Board to recommend to Council that it approves the Core Strategy Selective Review alongside supporting material and evidence for submission to the Secretary of State so that it may be subject to independent examination by the Planning Inspectorate.

Further to Minute No. 131, 7^th February 2018, the Director of City Development submitted a report which sought approval from Executive Board to recommend to Council that it approved the Core Strategy Selective Review (CSSR) alongside supporting material and evidence for the purposes of submission to the Secretary of State, so that it may be subject to independent examination by the Planning Inspectorate.

Prior to the meeting, Board Members were in receipt of supplementary information which provided the Board with the individual outcomes from the respective consideration of the CSSR by Development Plan Panel and also Scrutiny Board (Infrastructure, Investment & Inclusive Growth), both of which met to consider this matter respectively on 20^th June 2018.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the representations made in response to the recent consultation on the proposed submission draft CSSR documents “Publication Draft” (under Regulation 19 of The Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012), be noted; and that the consequential changes made to the policies, which as amended now form the Core Strategy Selective Review Submission Draft Plan, also be noted;

(b)  That the individual resolutions of Development Plan Panel and Scrutiny Board (Infrastructure, Investment & Inclusive Growth), following their respective meetings on 20^th June 2018, be noted;

(c)  That the following be recommended to Council:-

a)  To approve the Submission Draft of the Core Strategy Selective Review (Appendix 1 to the submitted report) for independent examination, pursuant to Section 20 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, as amended;

b)  To approve the Sustainability Appraisal Report (Appendix 2 to the submitted report) in support of the Plan, along with supporting evidence and background documents, for Submission to the Secretary of State for independent examination, pursuant to Section 20 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, as amended;

c)  To grant authority to the independent inspector appointed to hold the Public Examination, to recommend modifications to the Submission Draft Plan, pursuant to Section 20 (7C) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, as amended;

d)  To delegate necessary authority to the Chief Planning Officer, in consultation with the relevant Executive Member, to:-

(i) approve the detail of any updates or corrections to the submission material and any further technical documents and supporting evidence required to be submitted alongside the revised Submission plan for consideration at future hearing sessions;

(ii) continue discussions with key parties and suggest to the Inspector any edits and consequential changes necessary to be made to the revised Submission Draft Core Strategy Selective Review following Council approval during the Examination; and

(iii) prepare and give evidence in support of the revised Submission Plan at Examination.

(Under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 16.5, Councillors A Carter and Golton both required it to recorded that they respectively abstained from voting on the decisions referred to within this minute)

(The matters referred to within this minute, given that they were decisions being made in accordance with the Budget and Policy Framework  ...  view the full minutes text for item 17.

To consider the report of the Director of City Development setting out emerging proposals for significant investment and redevelopment on behalf of the owners of land at the White Rose Office Park and Millshaw Industrial Estate and the opportunities this will present for inclusive growth and regeneration in South Leeds.

The Director of City Development submitted a report which set out emerging proposals for significant investment and redevelopment on behalf of the owners of land at the White Rose Office Park and Millshaw Industrial Estate. In addition, the report also provided details of opportunities that this proposal would present for the further development of inclusive growth and regeneration in South Leeds.

Members welcomed the proposal as submitted, highlighted the significant potential for the development in terms of economic growth and job creation, and emphasised the linkages to the Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy.

With regard to a reference within the submitted report to the Leeds Public Transport Investment Programme, it was clarified that it was intended to submit an update report on the programme to the 25^th July 2018 Board meeting.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Board’s in-principle support be provided for the repurposing of the Millshaw estate as part of a joined up approach to development with the White Rose Office Park, in order to deliver significant inclusive growth benefits to the South Leeds, as set out at paragraphs 3.4 – 3.11 of the submitted report;

(b)  That the planning matters to be addressed by the landowners in bringing forward and delivering a master plan for the White Rose Office Park and Millshaw estate, as set out at paragraphs 3.12 – 3.16 of the submitted report, be noted;

(c)  That confirmation be provided that Council-owned land within and adjoining the Millshaw estate should be considered for inclusion within the master planning exercise on a ‘without prejudice’ basis, as set out within paragraphs 3.22 – 3.25 of the submitted report, with it being noted that the Head of Regeneration is responsible for the co-ordination of the Council’s interests in this respect.

To consider the joint report of the Directors of Resources and Housing and Adults and Health seeking approval to make a secured loan facility of £350,000 plus accrued interest available to Donisthorpe Hall care home in order to assist with the care provider’s financial recovery plan.

(Please note that Appendix 2a and 2b are designated as exempt from publication under the provisions of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4 (3))

The Director of Resources and Housing and the Director of Adults and Health submitted a joint report which sought approval to make a secured loan facility of £350,000 plus accrued interest available to Donisthorpe Hall care home in order to assist with the care provider’s financial recovery plan.

The Board noted the significant work which had been undertaken in respect of the required due diligence processes.

A Member highlighted the Council’s role of enabling a mixed economy of care provision for the city, and how the submitted proposals were in line with that role.

Following consideration of Appendices 2a and 2b to the submitted report designated as exempt from publication under the provisions of Access to Information Procedure Rule 10.4(3), which were considered in private at the conclusion of the meeting, it was

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the provision of a secured loan facility, funded from the Council’s balance sheet, from the Council to Donisthorpe Hall care home for the sum of Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand Pounds plus accrued interest, be approved, with this loan facility being allocated and repaid in accordance with the provisions stated in the submitted report and the exempt appendices 2a (including annexe A, B & C) and 2b;

(b)  That the Director of Adults and Health and the Director of Resources and Housing, in conjunction with the City Solicitor and the Chief Officer Financial Services, be authorised to ensure that the Board’s resolution (above) is implemented.

To consider the report of the Director of Adults and Health providing details of the outcome of consultation on short break arrangements. The report seeks approval for putting in place new arrangements that ensure, going forward, that the Council’s short breaks offer is fair, equitable and gives proper weighting to those with the greatest caring responsibility.

The Director of Adults and Health submitted a report providing details of the outcome of consultation undertaken on short break arrangements, and which sought approval to establish new arrangements to ensure that the Council’s short breaks offer was fair, equitable and gave proper weighting to those with the greatest caring responsibility.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry in respect of consultation, it was highlighted that the intention was to submit a further report to the Board in due course which provided further detail on the number of users which would be affected by the proposals and how they would be affected.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That approval be given to the expansion of the in-house Short Breaks service, so that it can offer short breaks to a greater variety of people and for a wider range of needs;

(b)  That the three tier approach towards having a short break which supports a range of carer needs, be approved;

(c)  That approval be given to the gradual withdrawal of the Outreach Service over time, in order to facilitate resolution (b) above, with it being noted that people’s short breaks will be maintained through alternative arrangements when their sessional worker leaves / retires;

(d)  That further consultation be undertaken on a revised service specification for the Community-based Respite service, including referral pathway and service criteria;

(e)  That it be noted that the Community-based respite service and the Outreach Service are not the only way that people with eligible social care needs may have a break, and that people may choose to have a personal budget in order to arrange a short break that suits them and the cared-for person;

(f)  That it be noted that the Director of Adults and Health is responsible for the implementation of such matters.

To consider the report of the Director of Adults and Health on the progress made by Leeds City Council and the Leeds Carers Partnership  in relation to the Leeds Commitment to Carers.

Further to Minute No. 23, 21^st June 2017, the Director of Adults and Health submitted a report which provided an update on the progress which had been made by the Council and the Leeds Carers’ Partnership in relation to the Leeds Commitment to Carers initiative.

The Board welcomed Val Hewison, Chief Executive of the ‘Carers Leeds’, organisation who was in attendance and provided the Board with an update on the progress made by the initiative over the past 12 months, highlighted the areas where progress was still required and provided further information on the crucial role played by the many carers throughout the city. In addition, as part of the ambition to make Leeds the best city for carers, an offer was made for further liaison to take place with each Council directorate in order to raise greater awareness in this area.

Members supported the range of actions being taken whilst noting that there was still further work to do in this field. In addition, Members highlighted the importance of providing adequate support to all carers, with reference being made to Council employees. Emphasis was also made to the link between being a carer and the impact that that could have upon an individual’s mental health.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the progress which has been made to date by the Council and the Leeds Carers’ Partnership in relation to the Leeds Commitment to Carers, be noted;

(b)  That approval be given to continue the promotion of the Leeds Commitment to Carers initiative across Leeds City Council directorates and also Elected Member Lead Portfolio areas.

To consider the report of the Director of Adults and Health introduces the Leeds Health and Wellbeing Board: Reviewing the Year 2017-2018, which serves as an annual review serves as a roundup of activity commissioned or directed by the HWB and guided by the Leeds Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2016-2021.

The Director of Adults and Health submitted a report presenting the ‘Leeds Health and Wellbeing Board: Reviewing the Year 2017-2018’, which served as an annual review and roundup of the range of activity commissioned or directed by the Board, which had been guided by the Leeds Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2016-2021.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry regarding the several specific issues which had been identified within the Director of Public Health’s Annual Report for 2017/18, the Board noted that it was expected that such issues would feature upon the future work programme of the Health and Wellbeing Board.

RESOLVED – That the contents of the submitted report, together with the contents of the appendedLeeds Health and Wellbeing Board: Reviewing the Year 2017-2018 document, be noted, with the following being specifically highlighted:

·  The successes achieved in Leeds to bring together effective partnerships/deliver major programmes of change such as the Improved Better Care Fund and Local Care Partnerships;

·  Achieving the position as the ‘Best Core City for Health and Wellbeing’;

·  Leeds’ increasing influence in West Yorkshire and nationally via the power of our strengths and assets with a community focused approach towards health and care integration;

·  Leeds’ priority to improve the health of the poorest the fastest and address the social determinants of health (employment, housing, inclusion, community); and

·  The additional challenges of delivering the health and care agenda despite ongoing austerity settlements.

To consider the report of the Independent Chair of the Leeds Safeguarding Children Partnership presenting the key findings from the Leeds Safeguarding Children’s Board Annual Report (2017/18).

The Independent Chair of the Leeds’ Safeguarding Children Partnership submitted a report which presented the key findings from the Partnership’s Annual Report for 2017/18.

The Board welcomed Dr. Mark Peel, Independent Chair of the Leeds Safeguarding Children Partnership, who was in attendance at the meeting in order to introduce the key points of the annual report and to highlight key priorities.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, the Board noted the view of the Independent Chair when considering the effectiveness of the procedures in place to exchange information between Leeds and other Local Authorities / agencies when dealing with cases which crossed the Local Authority’s boundary, who confirmed that he believed that robust processes were in place.

Also in response to a Member’s enquiry regarding the capacity in Leeds to deal with continuing and emerging issues around the protection of children and young people, the Independent Chair advised that he did not detect any negative impact in the safeguarding provision in Leeds as a result of the resource being provided to Kirklees Council, as part of the Partners in Practice programme.  Further to this, the Director of Children and Families advised the Board that a period of 3 years had been identified for Leeds’ involvement in Kirklees which included a tapering of support, and it was also highlighted that agreement had now been reached with the Department for Education (DfE) for Kirklees to look to recruit their own Director of Children’s Services. It was also noted that Leeds was in regular contact with the DfE on such matters.

Following a specific request, the Independent Chair undertook that the Partnership would carry out a piece of work around the ‘Early Help’ strategy in respect of those children and families who required support, with it being highlighted that although demand for such support was high, a number of schools in the city were withdrawing support for Clusters, through which a number of related services were focussed.  It was noted that the outcomes from that piece of work would be provided to Board Members as appropriate, with it also being suggested that it may be appropriate to raise this matter with the Department for Education.

In conclusion, the Chair paid tribute to the vital work of the Leeds Safeguarding Children’s Partnership.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted cover report together with the contents of the appended Leeds Safeguarding Children Partnership Annual Report (2017-18) be noted, together with the identified safeguarding priorities for the city, as detailed within the Annual Report;

(b)  That the Leeds Safeguarding Children Partnership be requested to carry out a piece of work around the ‘Early Help’ strategy in respect of those children and families who required support, with it being highlighted that although demand for such support was high, a number of schools in the city were withdrawing support for Clusters, through which a number of related services were focussed, with the outcomes from that piece of work being provided to Board Members as appropriate.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 23.

To consider the report of the Director of Children and Families which presents the annual report of the fostering service and seeks approval of the revised statement of purpose for Leeds City Council’s Fostering Service. The Statement of Purpose is required as part of the national minimum standard in order to be able to provide those services.

Further to Minute No. 29, 17^th July 2017, the Director of Children and Families submitted a report which presented the annual report of the fostering service and which sought approval of the revised statement of purpose for Leeds City Council’s Fostering Service.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Statement of Purpose for Fostering Services for Leeds City Council, as appended to the submitted report, be approved;

(b)  That the contents of the annual Fostering report, as submitted, be noted, with the Board confirming its continued support for the work of the adoption and fostering service which aims to ensure that children receive the best possible support.

To consider the report of the Director of Children and Families which presents the annual report of One Adoption West Yorkshire (OAWY), as required by the National Minimum Standards 2011. The report seeks approval of the revised Statement of Purpose for OAWY.

Further to Minute No. 29, 17^th July 2017, the Director of Children and Families submitted a report which presented the annual report of One Adoption West Yorkshire (OAWY), as required by the National Minimum Standards 2011. Specifically, the report sought approval of the revised Statement of Purpose for OAWY.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Statement of Purpose for One Adoption West Yorkshire, as appended to the submitted report, be approved;

(b)  That the annual adoption report, as appended to the submitted report, be noted, with the Board confirming its continued support for the work of OAWY, which aims to ensure that children receive the best possible support.

At the commencement of the reports within his portfolio, the Chair welcomed Councillor Pryor, given that this was the first Executive Board meeting which he had attended since his recent appointment to the position of Executive Member for ‘Learning, Skills and Employment’.

To consider the report of the Director of Children and Families detailing the progress made towards Leeds becoming the best city for learning. The report outlines where Leeds is now in relation to the strategy and the actions that have been taken to ensure that all children in Leeds, including those affected by poverty and other disadvantages are supported to achieve their potential.

The Director of Children and Families submitted a report which presented the progress made towards Leeds becoming the best city for learning. The report outlined Leeds’ current position in relation to the associated strategy and the actions that had been taken to ensure that all children in Leeds, including those affected by poverty and other disadvantages were supported to help them achieve their potential.

Responding to a Member’s enquiry, the Board received further information on the range of ongoing actions being taken to narrow the gap between advantaged and disadvantaged learners, which included details of the ‘Advantaging the Disadvantaged’ strategy and the work of the Child Poverty Impact Board.

In noting the recent appointment of a new Deputy Director (Learning), who was due in post in the Autumn, it was suggested that a piece of work that looked at further tackling such matters be developed in readiness for the new Deputy Director, so that they could pick it up as a priority.

Also, responding to an enquiry, the Board received details regarding the processes and timescales by which Educational Health and Care Plans for SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) learners were put in place.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the contents of the submitted report, together with the Annual Standards Report, as appended, which details the outcomes of Leeds children and young people in the 2016 / 2017 academic year, be noted;

(b)  That the expectations for future developments in learning and the ways that Leeds intends to diminish differences between key groups across the city; including those pupils with pupil premium funding, SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) or within a minority group, be noted;

(c)  That the provision of ongoing support, challenge and intervention in Leeds be approved, in order to ensure that progress continues to be made towards Leeds becoming the best city for learning.

To consider the report of the Director of the Director of Children and Families regarding proposals as part of the Learning Places Programme scheme to increase the Pupil Admissions Number at The Co-operative Academy of Leeds from 180 to 240 from September 2019, creating an additional 300 places across years 7 – 11. In addition, the report seeks approval to undertake related capital expenditure. 

The Director of the Director of Children and Families submitted a report regarding proposals as part of the Learning Places Programme scheme to increase the Pupil Admissions Number at The Co-operative Academy of Leeds from 180 to 240 from September 2019, which would create an additional 300 places across years 7 – 11. In addition, the submitted report sought approval to undertake related capital expenditure.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That ‘Authority to spend’ on the Learning Places Programme for the expansion of The Co-operative Academy of Leeds at a total value of £4.1m, as detailed within the submitted report, be approved;

(b)  That it be noted that it is currently envisaged that the scheme will be completed by October 2019, however it is also noted that discussions are ongoing between all parties to look at ways in which to bring this date forward to September 2019;

(c)  That it be noted, that if the required works cannot be completed by September 2019, a contingency plan will be developed to ensure that the Academy is able to accommodate the additional pupil numbers;

(d)  That it be noted that the Chief Officer, Asset Management and Regeneration is responsible for the delivery of the scheme.

To consider the report of the Director of Children and Families which describes the outcome of the consultation undertaken regarding proposals to permanently expand primary school provision at Moor Allerton Hall Primary School (PS) from 2FE to 3FE and which seeks permission to publish a Statutory Notice in respect of such proposals.

Further to Minute No. 138, 7^th February 2018, the Director of Children and Families submitted a report which detailed the outcome of the consultation undertaken regarding proposals to permanently expand primary school provision at Moor Allerton Hall Primary School from 2 form entry to 3 form entry and which sought permission to publish a Statutory Notice in respect of such proposals.

Responding to an enquiry, assurance was provided to the Board that the proposals being put forward were not simply a short term measure for that area.

Prior to the meeting, Board Members were in receipt of a re-circulated version of the submitted cover report, as it had been noted that parts of sections 3.13-3.14 and 4.3 of the original version had been either mis-formatted or had some text missing.

Having taken the resubmitted version of the cover report into consideration, it was

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the publication of a Statutory Notice on a proposal to permanently expand primary provision at Moor Allerton Hall Primary School from a capacity of 420 pupils to 630 pupils, with an increase in the admission number from 60 to 90, with effect from September 2019, be approved;

(b)  That it be noted that the previous proposals to form a through-school by joining together Moor Allerton Hall Primary School with Allerton Grange School, and to expand primary provision as part of that through-school, are not to be taken forward;

(c)  That approval be given to exempt the resolutions within this minute from the Call In process, for the reasons as set out within paragraph 4.5.2 of the submitted report;

(d)  That it be noted that the responsible officer for the implementation of such matters is the Head of Learning Systems.

(Under the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 16.5, Councillor A Carter required it to be recorded that he abstained from voting on the decisions referred to within this minute)

(The Council’s Executive and Decision Making Procedure Rules state that a decision may be declared as being exempt from the Call In process if it is considered that any delay would seriously prejudice the Council’s, or the public’s interests. In line with this, the resolutions contained within this minute were exempted from the Call In process, as per resolution (c) above, and for the reasons as detailed within section 4.5.2 of the submitted report)

To consider the report of the Director of City Development which seeks authorisation to commit £1.8m maximum of Council matchfunding to deliver the Leeds element of the Leeds City Region Employment Hub Project (Routeways) and NEET (YEP) Projects. These projects will result in investment of up to £3.8m in the city and £14m across the Leeds City Region - part funded by the European Structural and Investment Fund (ESIF).

The Director of City Development submitted a report which sought authorisation to commit a maximum of £1.8m Council match-funding in order to deliver the Leeds element of the Leeds City Region Employment Hub Project (Routeways) and ‘Not in Education, Employment or Training’ (NEET) Youth Engagement and Progression (YEP) Projects. The submitted report highlighted how such projects would result in investment of up to £3.8m in the city and £14m across the Leeds City Region, part funded by the European Structural and Investment Fund (ESIF).

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the Council, as a Delivery Partner, be authorised to work with:-

(i)  the West Yorkshire Combined Authority under a Service Level Agreement, to deliver the Leeds City Region Employment Hub Project (Routeways), as part of the ESIF Sustainable Integration of Young People into the Labour Market Programme; and

(ii)  City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council under a Service Level Agreement, to deliver the YEP Project, as part of the ESIF Sustainable Integration of Young People into the Labour Market Programme.

(b)  That the following total expenditure be approved:-

(i)  up to £1.4m by the Council inclusive of £0.7m maximum match funding to deliver the Leeds element of the YEP project over the next three years, 2018-2021;

(ii)  up to £2.1m by the Council inclusive of £1.1m maximum match funding to deliver the Leeds element of the Routeways project over the next three years, 2018-2021;

(c)  That it be noted that the Head of Projects and Programmes in the Employment and Skills Service will be responsible for the implementation of both projects in Leeds, which are anticipated to commence by August 2018 and be completed by August 2021. 

To consider the report of the Director of Communities and Environment providing an update on the progress made over the last 6 years since the LGBT+ Friendly City report was adopted by Executive Board, and which highlights the work of the re-launched LGBT+ Hub and the Council’s LGBT+

Staff Network in contributing towards the development of the agenda alongside partners in the public, Third and Business Sectors.

Further to Minute No. 105, 7^th November 2012, the Director of Communities and Environment submitted a report which provided an update on the progress made over the past 6 years since the LGBT+ Friendly City report was considered by the Board. In addition, the report highlighted the work of the re-launched LGBT+ Hub and the Council’s LGBT+ Staff Network in contributing towards the development of the agenda alongside partners in the public, Third and Business Sectors.

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the current and ongoing work undertaken to make Leeds an LGBT+ Inclusive City be noted, and that support be provided to the LGBT+ Hub in developing and maintaining a forward work programme, together with success measures which reflect the work streams outlined within the submitted report and appendix. It is also noted that the work programme is to be co-produced and owned between the LGBT+ Hub and the LGBT+ community;

(b)  That support be given to the cross city partnership approach that has developed between the Council, other public bodies, the Third and Business Sectors to deliver on the Inclusive City agenda;

(c)  That support be given to the work undertaken to address the lack of LGBT+ community infrastructure within the city relative to other major urban areas;

(d)  That continued support be given to the leadership role of senior officers, Elected Members and partners in taking forward the LGBT+ equality agenda, with recognition being given to the significant positive impact that the work of champions and allies has in delivering outcomes;

(e)  That the intention for the LGBT+ Hub to develop a forward work programme with a 5 year prioritised timeframe, be noted, together with the fact that the responsibility for supporting the associated resolutions arising from this report will sit with the Director of Communities and Environment and Chief Officer Communities.

DATE OF PUBLICATION:     FRIDAY, 29^TH JUNE 2018

LAST DATE FOR CALL IN

OF ELIGIBLE DECISIONS:     5.00PM, FRIDAY, 6^TH JULY 2018