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Agenda and minutes
Venue: Town Hall, Queen's Square, Priory Meadow, Hastings TN34 1QR
Contact: Michael Courts on 01424 451764 email mcourts@hastings.gov.uk
Items No. Item Additional documents:
Minutes:
RESOLVED – that the minutes of the meeting held on 1 December 2014 and the special meeting held on 26 November 2014 be approved and signed by the chair as a correct record.
RESOLVED – the chair called over the items on the agenda, under rule 13.3 the recommendations set out in minute numbers 52, 53 and 56 were agreed without being called for discussion
MATTERS FOR CABINET DECISION
Refresh of Seafront Strategy PDF 146 KB
(Cabinet Decision)
Additional documents:
Minutes:
The Director of Regeneration presented a report on the outcome of a recent public consultation on the refreshed seafront strategy. A revised copy of the strategy had been appended to the report.
The existing Hastings and Bexhill Seafront Strategy, which set out a vision for a regenerated seafront between Hastings and Bexhill in 2020, had been adopted by the council in 2005. However, since the strategy was adopted, there had been a number of significant developments on and around Hastings seafront, and it was therefore necessary to refresh the document.
The revised strategy focused solely on Hastings seafront, and incorporated the vision and objectives of the original strategy. Members noted that the seafront strategy formed part of the council’s broader regeneration objectives for the town and was closely linked to the emerging local plan.
The draft strategy had been subject to an eleven week public consultation from 18 August 2014. The comments received during the consultation reflected the importance of the seafront to the town’s economy and residents’ quality of life. Revisions had been made to the draft strategy document, following the consultation feedback.
Following adoption by the council, an action plan to deliver the objectives set out in the strategy would be developed. The action plan will enable the council to identify opportunities to work with other local organisations and explore funding opportunities to support the realisation of the vision for the seafront.
Councillor Chowney moved approval of the recommendation to the report, which was seconded by Councillor Cartwright.
RESOLVED (unanimously) that Cabinet:-
1) acknowledges the comments received by individuals and organisations which have helped shape the final document, and;
2) adopts the refreshed seafront strategy as set out in appendix A to the Head of Regeneration and Planning Policy’s report.
The reason for this decision was:
The existing seafront strategy, Leading From the Front, which covers both Hastings and Bexhill, was agreed in 2005. Since then, there have been many developments affecting Hastings seafront and a refreshed draft seafront strategy was prepared and put out for public consultation. A range of comments were received through the consultation process that warrant the council’s response and which have informed proposed revisions to the draft refreshed seafront strategy.
Bottle Alley Petition PDF 135 KB
(Cabinet Decision)
Minutes:
The Director of Environmental Services presented a report which responded to a petition the council had received requesting the restoration of Bottle Alley.
Mr Andre Palfrey-Martin introduced the petition to Cabinet on behalf of the petitioners. The petition called for the restoration of Bottle Alley, to return it to its original appearance, including improvements to the concrete structure, lighting and bottle wall. Mr Palfrey-Martin also suggested exploring alternative uses for the site, to encourage visitors to Bottle Alley.
The report gave an overview of the history of the site, including the results of a feasibility study undertaken in 2012, which had considered the viability of an integrated package of improvements for the road-level promenade and Bottle Alley itself.
Whilst the petitioners request for a full restoration of Bottle Alley was not affordable for the council at this time, £160,000 had been allocated in the capital programme for 2015-16 to rewire the structure and the installation of new lighting fixtures with LED lights and cosmetic repairs to missing concrete throughout the structure. The proposed works would significantly improve the appearance of the area and make it more welcoming for walkers and visitors.
An intensive survey of the concrete promenade would also be undertaken in 2015, to establish accurate costs for a more comprehensive restoration of the structure. With nearby facilities such as the pier and indoor BMX facility at White Rock Baths also due to open, it may then be possible to explore funding opportunities to support the further restoration of Bottle Alley.
Councillor Poole moved approval of the recommendations to the report, which was seconded by Councillor Hodges.
RESOLVED (unanimously) that: -
1) Cabinet acknowledge the petitioners’ concerns about the condition of Bottle Alley;
2) Cabinet support the inclusion in the draft budget of a proposed £160,000 capital allocation in 2015-16 for a new lighting scheme and surface concrete repairs, and;
3) the full cost of a Bottle Alley restoration scheme be considered following the 2015 intensive survey and investigations into external funding possibilities.
The reason for this decision was:
The petitioners request for a full restoration of Bottle Alley is not affordable at this time, primarily due to the cost of extensive waterproofing and resurfacing. Renewed efforts to identify external funding will be required. However, a capital scheme is proposed for 2015 -16 that will enhance the appearance and lighting of Bottle Alley whilst funding is pursued for its longer term restoration.
Council Tax Base 2015/16 PDF 127 KB
(Cabinet Decision)
Additional documents:
Minutes:
The Head of Finance submitted a report to agree the calculation of the tax base for the purpose of setting council tax for 2015-16.
The council was required to inform East Sussex County Council (ESCC), the East Sussex Fire Authority and the Police and Crime Commissioner of its tax base for the purpose of setting council tax by 31 January 2015. The council tax charge would then be determined at the Budget Council meeting on 25 February 2015.
The council tax base was calculated by multiplying the total of the relevant amount for each of the valuation bands for the year with the authorities estimate for its collection rate for the year. Any variations experienced in the in-year collection rate of council tax would be carried forward as part of the council tax setting process for future years.
RESOLVED that Cabinet agree the council tax base for the year 2015-16 shall be 24,281.
The reason for this decision was:
Setting the council tax base is the first step in determining the council tax for 2015-16. The tax base has to be determined by 31 January each year.
Cash Collection Contract PDF 125 KB
(Cabinet Decision)
Minutes:
The Head of Finance submitted a report to agree the procurement arrangements for the cash collection contract.
The council’s current cash collection contract was due to expire on 31 March 2015, and it was recommended that the council go out to tender with three other local authorities via the East Sussex Procurement Hub. The new contract would be for three years, with an option to extend for a further two years (five years in total).
As part of the procurement process, contractors would be assessed against their ability to mitigate the security risks associated with cash collection and promptly bank the cash collected in to Hastings Borough Council’s bank account.
RESOLVED to agree that authority be given to the Director of Corporate Resources or his nominee in conjunction with the Leader of the Council, to award a contract to the supplier that offers the most economically advantageous terms.
The reason for this decision was:
The current cash collection contract expires on 31 March 2015.
Scrutiny Review of Bathing Water Quality PDF 134 KB
(Cabinet Decision)
Minutes:
The Director of Regeneration presented a report to update Members on actions taken to address the quality of Hastings bathing water in order to meet the new European bathing water standard in 2016.
There are two designated bathing beaches within the borough, Hastings Pelham and St Leonards, both bathing beaches met the current water standards. However, from 2016 a new, more stringent, European Bathing Directive will replace the current measure. Whilst it was expected that the St Leonards beach would be classified as good under the new standards, it was anticipated that the Hastings beach would be classified as poor.
A range of actions had been undertaken by the Environment Agency, Southern Water, the Clean Seas Please Campaign and the council to improve bathing water quality. A bathing water quality executive group also met regularly to monitor progress with the improvements. Many of the efforts have focused on reducing pollution from the outfall pipe at Pelham Beach by identifying and correcting missed connections and dual manholes and re-engineering Buckshole Pond 1 in Alexandra Park to provide improved filtration. The Clean Seas Please campaign had also continued to promote positive behavioural changes amongst local residents and businesses.
Further interventions were planned throughout spring 2015, including actions to filter pollution from the Alexandra Park stream as it passes through the park’s ponds and boating lake. Southern Water would also continue a programme of works to address sewer issues in the catchment, prior to the 2015 bathing water season.
The Overview and Scrutiny review of bathing water quality team had been reconvened to update members on progress to improve bathing water quality. Members were mindful that any measures must ensure that bathing water in Hastings continued to meet the required standard in the long term.
Councillor Birch moved approval of the recommendations to the report, which was seconded by Councillor Hodges.
RESOLVED (unanimously) that:-
1) Cabinet acknowledge the work of all partners and the continued interest of the Scrutiny review team,
2) Cabinet support ongoing efforts for further improvements by 2015 and the realisation of a long term sustainable solution thereafter, and;
3) a further report be brought to Cabinet at the end of the 2015 bathing season.
The reason for this decision was:
The management response to the Scrutiny Review of Bathing Water Quality was presented to Cabinet at your 31 March 2014 meeting. The resolution arising from that report requested that further discussion take place at Cabinet at the end of the calendar year.
Progress has been made as a result of action by Southern water, the Environment Agency and the Borough Council. However, the risk of failure at Hastings Pelham beach remains and further actions are planned over the winter and spring.
Hastings Crematorium Chapel Enhancements PDF 131 KB
(Cabinet Decision)
Minutes:
The Director of Environmental Services presented a report which sought authorisation to proceed with construction works at Hastings Crematorium and the spending of £103,017 from the capital programme budget for this project.
It was necessary to improve the facilities at the crematorium in order to accommodate larger funerals, which may have 100 or more mourners present. Over recent years, many people had elected to hold an entire funeral service at the crematorium which had involved a larger number of people in attendance, often above the chapel’s maximum capacity.
The project would improve accessibility to the eastern chapel, where new audio visual and sound system equipment would be installed to allow mourners to view service sin the main chapel. A new flower pergola would also be constructed, to display floral tributes. Planning permission and building control consent had been sought for these works.
A budget of £100,000 had been allocated in the capital programme, however the total cost of the works was likely to be £103,017 excluding VAT.
Councillor Poole moved approval of the recommendations to the report, which was seconded by Councillor Hodges.
RESOLVED (unanimously) that:-
1) Cabinet approve the expenditure of £103,017 against the £100,000 allocated in the capital programme for crematorium chapel enhancements, and;
2) Cabinet delegate the acceptance of the most economically advantageous tender for the pergola and associated works to the Corporate Director of Environmental Services
The reason for this decision was:
Larger funerals with 100 or more mourners have become a frequent occurrence as people opt to use the crematorium chapel for funeral services rather than just commitals. The current chapel facilities at Hastings Crematorium are not large enough to seat everyone and the overflow facilities need improvements. The project will expand our seating and viewing capacity by refurbishing the eastern chapel, improving audio and video links to the main chapel and installing a new flower and memorial plaque display area on the lawn opposite the eastern chapel.
A budget of £100,000 was allocated for this work. Now that all quotes and the main tender have been received, that actual spend is £103,017 excluding VAT.
Proposed scheme of delegation for the Anti-Social Behaviour Police and Crime Act 2014 PDF 134 KB
(Cabinet Decision)
Minutes:
The Director of Environmental Services submitted a report which proposed a scheme of delegation for the enforcement powers set out in the Anti-Social behaviour Police and Crime Act 2014.
At its meeting on 6 October 2014, Cabinet had considered a report on background information to the new powers introduced by the Anti-Social Behaviour Police and Crime Act 2014, the council had also adopted a process for implementing community triggers.
The report set out a range of powers introduced by the Act; these included the civil injunction, criminal behaviour order, community protection notice, public space protection order and closure power. The new powers were intended to enable the council to address and prevent instances of anti-social behaviour.
In order for the authority to discharge its functions under the act, it was necessary to adopt a scheme of delegation. The report recommended that these powers be delegated to the Director of Environmental Services and his nominees.
RESOLVED that Cabinet delegates the powers listed in paragraph 3 to the Director of Environmental Services and his nominees.
The reason for this decision was:
In order for the council to discharge its function under the Act, a scheme of delegation should be in place. Cabinet has the responsibility to delegate powers under the Act.
Cabinet Appointments to Committee, Working Groups and Partnerships etc PDF 98 KB
(Cabinet Decision)
Additional documents:
- Appendix A - table of Committees, Working Groups and Partnerships etc to which appointments are to be made , item 57. PDF 61 KB
- Appendix B - list of representative bodies to which appointments are to be made , item 57. PDF 10 KB
- Appendix A to the minutes , item 57. PDF 61 KB
- Appendix B to the minutes , item 57. PDF 39 KB
Minutes:
The Chief Legal Officer presented a report which included nominations received from the group leaders for changes in representation on the committees, working groups and partnerships to which Cabinet appoints.
At the meeting, Councillor Pragnell proposed that Councillor Atkins be appointed to the Hastings Local Strategic Partnership and the Hastings Athletic Track Committee, as set out in appendix A to the minutes. The remaining nominations were agreed, as set out in Appendix A and B to the Chief Legal Officer’s report.
RESOLVED (unanimously) that Members be appointed to committees, working groups, partnerships and representative bodies, as set out in Appendix A and B to the minutes.
The reason for this decision was:
Members are required to serve on the committees, working groups, partnerships and representative bodies to which Cabinet appoints. Chairs and Vice-Chairs are required for the committees that report to Cabinet.
Proposed changes to the Senior Officer Structure PDF 122 KB
(Cabinet Decision)
Minutes:
The Executive Manager People and Organisational Development presented a report on the feedback received as part of the chief officer restructure and affected staff consultation.
The council had committed to undertake a review of its senior management structure as part of a business case submission to the government for efficiency support grant. At its meeting on 26 November 2014, Cabinet had approved a recommendation to delete the three current Director posts, and replace them with two new posts.
Following the Cabinet decision, the council had carried out a further consultation period with chief officers and affected staff, in compliance with the JNC Terms and Conditions of Employment. As part of the consultation process, the three current Directors had individually met with the Leader of the Council and the Executive Manager of People and Organisational Development; other affected staff were also offered 1:1 meetings.
The results of the consultation had been broadly supportive of the proposed new structure in order for the council to achieve ongoing efficiencies and as an opportunity to further develop the culture of the organisation and service provision.
Councillor Birch moved approval of the recommendations to the report, which was seconded by Councillor Chowney.
RESOLVED (unanimously) that the Cabinet:-
1) thanks officers concerned for their comments during the formal consultation period;
2) in light of the consultation responses re-affirms its decision of 26 November 2014 regarding the restructuring of the chief officer team, and;
3) instruct the Executive Manager, People and Organisational Development to make the necessary arrangements for the appointments process
The reason for this decision was:
The consultation highlights the support from the chief officers and affected staff for the proposed senior officer changes, given the economic and financial outlook for the council. These changes lead to on-going savings which can only be achieved once the new structure is implemented.
Minutes of the Charity Committee meeting held on 8 December 2014 PDF 67 KB
Minutes:
The minutes of the meeting of Charity Committee held on 8 December 2014 were submitted.
RESOLVED – that the minutes of the Charity Committee meeting held on 8 December 2014 be received
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