Agenda and minutes

The Chief Executive declared an interest in Item 8 and advised that she would leave the room during the debate on this item.

To receive as a correct record the minutes of the Meeting of the Council held on Thursday 5 December 2019.

The minutes of the meeting held on Thursday, 5 December 2019 were approved as a correct record and signed by the Mayor.

The Mayor informed Councillors that, despite problems with road closures and many guests being delayed, her Civic Dinner had been a success this year and she thanked everyone involved in its organisation. She reported that she had been to many enjoyable events and met many people but given the magnitude of the evening’s business she would not elaborate further on those events; however, she did encourage her fellow Councillors to join her on Monday morning at the Arena for the raising of the Commonwealth Flag.

The Leader thanked officers for their hard work and dedication during the recent flooding. Along with Ward Councillors, it had been wonderful to see the community spirit of officers from Rushcliffe and the County Council helping members of the community protect their properties and businesses.

The Leader also announced the launch of ‘Reach’, a new project to target loneliness in the Borough, and informed Council of the excellent progress that was being made to bring the civilian side of the DNRC at Stanford Hall to fruition. 

The Leader also personally thanked the Mayor for hosting an exceptional Civic Dinner.

The Chief Executive informed Council of the work officers were undertaking to support Public Health England to protect the public against Coronavirus – Covid-19 – including sharing the national action plan with Councillors via email today. Officers were also reviewing business continuity plans to take into account potential staff shortages due to illness and caring responsibilities; should this situation arise then essential services including refuse collection  and benefit payments would be prioritised. Weekly regional meetings were being attended and the Chief Executive assured Councillors they would be kept informed.

To answer questions submitted by Citizens on the Council or its services.

A Citizens’ Question was received from Mr Steve Cook who asked his question in person:

“Following the invitation from the Council for Expressions of Interest regarding Lutterell Hall, will the Council be considering the Partnership Proposal submitted by the Friends of Lutterell Hall which was delivered to Kath Marriott and subsequently circulated to all Councillors by email?"

Councillor Edyvean confirmed that on 6 September 2019, the Council had issued a press release inviting expressions of interest from groups and organisations interested in the management of Lutterell Hall, with a closing date for applications of 29 November 2019. Interviews were subsequently held on 15 January 2020. On 16 January 2020, the Council received a document from the Friends of Lutterell Hall, ‘Vision for Lutterell Hall’. As that document was received seven weeks after the closing date, it was not considered as a formal expression of interest.

A Citizens’ Question was received from Mr Simon Middlecote who asked his question in person:

“We assume the Council are aware of the affection that the people of WB have for the former Pumping Station on the Abbey Road Depot site and the growing calls for it to be retained as part of the proposed development of the site? In light of this, as well as the recent research which has been undertaken by local residents into the history of the site, can the Council tell us what they understand to be its historical significance to the development of the town?"

Councillor Edyvean confirmed that the Council acknowledged the local interest and history of the building to people in West Bridgford.  To reflect the history of the building, the Council had prepared an extensive Building Record, which included photographs and plans. Plans that had recently been shared with the Council by a local resident would also be incorporated with the report to provide an essential record of the building.  

The report of the Executive Manager – Finance and Corporate Services is attached.

Having declared an interest, the Chief Executive left the room.

The Leader and Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Borough Wide Leadership, Councillor Robinson presented his report concerning the appointment of the Chief Executive.

Councillor Robinson referred to the appointment last year of Katherine Marriott as interim Chief Executive following the retirement of Allen Graham and reiterated the importance of continuity and sustainability within the Council.  Since being appointed, Katherine Marriott’s professionalism and commitment had been exemplary and all held her in very high regard. To ensure continuity going forward and the future progression of the Council, an Interviewing Committee had been convened to consider the formal recruitment process, and following a rigorous process, it had agreed unanimously by the Committee that the appointment of Katherine Marriott to the role be recommended to Council.

Councillor Robinson referred to the forthcoming retirement of the Strategic Human Resources Manager, Juli Hicks, and thanked her on behalf of the Council for her dedication and professionalism over the years, and wished her a happy retirement.  

The report was moved by Councillor Robinson.

In seconding the recommendation, Councillor Mason reiterated the previous comments regarding the Chief Executive and the Strategic Human Resources Manager and stated that she looked forward to continuing working with Mrs Marriott and wished Juli Hicks a happy retirement.

Councillor Begum referred to Katherine Marriott’s impressive presentation and interview at that the Interviewing Committee, and welcomed her appointment. 

Councillor R Mallender confirmed that the Green Group was happy to support the appointment.

Councillor Way confirmed that the Independent Group was happy to support the recommendation and thanked Katherine Marriott for her hard work and looked forward to working with her in the future.

It was RESOLVED that Katherine Marriott be permanently appointed to the role of Chief Executive and Head of Paid Service with immediate effect.

The Chief Executive returned to the meeting.

The report of the Monitoring Officer is attached.

The Leader and Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Borough Wide Leadership, Councillor Robinson presented the report of the Monitoring Officer concerning a leave of absence for Councillor Jenny Murray.

Councillor Robinson stated that this item had been brought to Council as Councillor Jenny Murray was currently unwell;  he sent his best wishes to her on behalf of the Council.

The report was moved by Councillor Robinson.

In seconding the recommendation, Councillor Gray referred to the importance of caring for a person’s physical and mental wellbeing. He reported that Councillor Murray was hoping to be able to return to her role soon and he would pass on the Council’s best wishes to her.

It was RESOLVED that, having regard to the circumstances of the absence of Councillor Jenny Murray from Council meetings, the requirements of Section 85 (1) of the Local Government Act 1972 for a period of up to 6 months from 19 March – 19 September 2020 be waived and for payment of the Councillor allowance to continue for the duration of the authorised absence.

The report of the Executive Manager  - Finance and Corporate Services is attached.

The Leader and Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Borough Wide Leadership, Councillor Robinson presented the report of the Executive Manager – Finance and Corporate Services that outlined the Council’s Financial Strategy and Budget for 2020/21.

Councillor Robinson stated that, over the last few years, the Budget report had been accompanied with news of financial struggles and difficulties, but this year was different. With a strong majority government and having finally left the EU, the situation was looking more stable, the threat of Coronavirus notwithstanding. The Budget funded the delivery of the Council’s Corporate Strategy including enhancements to residents’ Quality of Life, the sustainability of developments in the Borough, the efficiency of Council services, and the Council’s new environmental priority; with those priorities clearly reflected in the Budget.

A number of current uncertainties for the Council were highlighted including: the level of business rates; the future uncertainty of Ratcliffe on Soar power station; potential changes in the future to the distribution of the New Homes Bonus; and the Fairer Funding Review being further delayed by central Government.

Councillor Robinson referred to the choices, which had to be made by Council every year and stated that he was proud to report that year on year Rushcliffe had made brave and courageous decisions, which aimed to deliver the best outcomes to residents to the Borough. Councillors formed part of that process through their involvement in the annual Budget workshops where officers worked hard to present very complex decisions as simply as possible. This year Councillors had chosen to: freeze car parking charges across the Borough to boost business growth in towns and villages; increase the green bin charge by £5 for the first time in three years; and increased the Council Tax by 3.59%; maintaining it as the least expensive in the County and remaining in the lowest quartile nationally.

Councillors were reminded that the Council was financially self-sustaining because of choices made in line with the central Government reduction in Revenue Support Grant. Over the period of the current Medium Term Financial Strategy, the income received by the Council each year had risen to over £2million and this was set to continue funding: activities for young people via the Positive Futures Programme; the new Customer Contact Centre in West Bridgford; and additional affordable housing across the Borough including at Abbey Road.

Councillor Robinson drew Council’s attention to the ambitious Capital Programme contained within the Budget. In order to fund the programme and deliver on the Council’s ambitions it was now considered prudent and appropriate to look at external borrowing of up to £10million to support a Capital Programme of £35million to deliver: the Bingham Hub containing office and leisure facilities and a community hall; a crematorium in Stragglethorpe; and enhancing the Borough’s community assets including; parks, existing leisure centres and community buildings. It was also noted that the Budget was not just about money but could also be used to drive behavioural change and the £1million investment in a Climate Change Fund  ...  view the full minutes text for item 56.

The report of the Executive Manager – Finance and Corporate Services is attached.

The Leader and Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Borough Wide Leadership, Councillor Robinson presented the report of the Executive Manager – Finance and Corporate Services that outlined the Council’s position on Council Tax for the year 2020/21.

Councillor Robinson confirmed that this was a statutory item to approve the Council Tax for 2020/21 and this resolution reflected the consolidation of all the precepts for Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Nottinghamshire Fire Authority, parish and town councils and Rushcliffe Borough Council. This Council Tax remained the lowest in Nottinghamshire and within the lowest quartile nationally.    

The report was moved by Councillor Robinson and seconded by Councillor Moore.

Councillor Jen Walker stated that there was an irony that later in the evening, the Council would be considering a Motion to request Government funding for the East Midlands, whilst at the same meeting, Council would be approving the raising of Council Tax. The Labour Group would not be supporting the recommendation as the tax was levied on a notional value that had no relation to household income or the market value of the property, with the poorest percentage of the population proportionately paying significantly higher than the wealthiest.  The proposed increase would place an excessive burden on working people. For the last 10 years, locally wages had been depressed, and due to austerity and cuts from central Government, privatisation and uncertainty, the Council had no other option but to increase Council Tax to protect itself from an uncertain future. Officers were thanked for their hard work in drafting the report and it was hoped that the requested investment from central Government would be received soon, albeit 10 years too late.           

Councillor Jones stated that it was a concern that the central Government Revenue Support Grant had been removed, the upper levels of Council Tax had not been increased and public services were reduced to the bear minimum. However, recognising that situation, reluctantly, the Liberal Democrat Group would support the recommendation.

Councillor Richard Mallender referred to the removal of the Revenue Support Grant, which affected everyone. Council Tax was not an ideal way to address the needs of local authorities and communities and alternative ways of financing local authorities should be investigated; however, given the current situation, the Green Group would be supporting the recommendation. 

Councillor Clarke advised that it was a statutory requirement to set a Council Tax and if the Council failed to do so, it would be breaking the law.

Councillor Moore reiterated that the Council had to set a Council Tax and the proposed increase of £4.95 per year was relatively small.

Councillor Simms referred to the popularity of the Borough and the high number of people who wished to live in Rushcliffe. Employment was very high nationally, there was support from families on low wages and the Council had to raise money through its Council Tax.

Councillor Purdue-Horan stated that as part of the budget process, the current Police and Crime Commissioner, Mr  ...  view the full minutes text for item 57.

The report of the Chief Executive is attached.

The Leader and Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Borough Wide Leadership, Councillor Robinson presented the report of the Chief Executive providing an update on the current position with regard to the East Midlands Development Corporation.

Councillor Robinson referred to the Midlands Engine Development Corporation, which had been allocated funding in 2018 of £2m.  Over the past two years, supported by the Chief Executive, he had sat on the Oversight Board. This related to the Government bringing decision-making and resources to the East Midlands, with three key geographical areas involved, including the Ratcliffe on Soar power station in Rushcliffe.  It was therefore vital that the Council participated in this development and played a key role. The majority of members had attended briefings from the Chief Executive of Nottinghamshire County Council and were aware of the direction being taken.  A Business Case setting out preferred options would be submitted to Government in March 2020, if accepted legislation was anticipated by 2022.  The report recognised the Development Corporation and its importance for Rushcliffe, with £100K allocated in the Reserve Fund in case of any required expenditure. It was proposed to establish a Member Working Group to be regularly advised on the progress of the Development Corporation over the next two years, during the interim delivery period. 

The report was moved by Councillor Robinson.

In seconding the recommendation, Councillor Butler stated that it was an exciting proposal, and it was important to encourage employment opportunities. It was essential that the Council was part of the Development Corporation and embrace future development and change.  

Councillor Gray stated that the Labour Group supported the recommendation and looked forward to future investment and job opportunities.

Councillor Jones stated that the Liberal Democrat Group supported the recommendation and hoped that when the power station site was decommissioned it would be used to develop alternative energy supplies.

Councillor Richard Mallender stated that the Green Group would be supporting the recommendation and hoped that in future the power station could be used to produce renewable energy.  Provision of employment and housing was pleasing, as was the proposal for the provision of a ‘Green Highway’ between the three sites and he looked forward with interest to seeing those plans. In respect of the airport, it would be necessary to reduce the amount of freight transported by air and seek alternative ways to move it by developing the railway infrastructure. 

Councillor Thomas stated that the main concern of the Independent Group was that the Development Corporation would be subject to delay and the Council was urged to continue to work closely with Uniper regarding the future development of the power station site.

Councillor Rex Walker referred to the lack of investment in the East Midlands compared to other regions, which had historically resulted in the region being unable to attract the investment required for long lasting economic development. Such current opportunities were rare, action had to be taken, and the proposals were welcomed. If the proposals went ahead, there  ...  view the full minutes text for item 58.

The report of the Executive Manager – Communities is attached.

The Portfolio Holder for Housing presented the report of the Executive Manager – Communities providing information on the Colston Bassett Neighbourhood Plan. The documents had been introduced by the Localism Act 2011 and gave local residents the opportunity to shape the future of their communities. The Plan had been promoted by the Parish Council, publicised, consulted on, examined by an independent Examiner and considered by the Borough Council. At its last meeting, the Cabinet agreed that the Plan should come to Council for approval, to proceed to a referendum. The referendum would take place on 26 March 2020 and follow the same format as previous neighbourhood plans. If more than 50% of those voting voted “yes” then the Borough Council was required to “adopt” the Plan.  If the result was “no”, then the Parish Council would have to decide what it wanted to do.

The report was moved by Councillor Upton.

In seconding the recommendation, Councillor Combellack stated that she was a great exponent of neighbourhood plans as they gave local residents a great opportunity to shape their local areas and provide legal weight to planning decisions. They protected the character of local areas of historic interest, whilst allowing new development to keep villages vibrant. This particular plan was a well-balanced and professional plan, which had been commended by the Independent Examiner. 

Councillor Gray confirmed that the Labour Group supported the recommendation and thanked everyone involved for their hard work and diligence.

Councillor Jones confirmed that the Liberal Democrat Group supported the recommendation and reiterated the previous comments.

Councillor Richard Mallender confirmed that the Green Group was happy to support the recommendation. 

Councillor Thomas confirmed that the Independent Group was happy to support the recommendation and congratulated all those involved. It was hoped that it would be taken into consideration in the planning process thereafter.

Councillor Butler referred to the significant work involved, especially for small communities such as Colston Bassett and it highlighted how much they cared for their community.

Councillor Upton reiterated the comments made and stated that from personal experience he was aware of the hard work involved. 

It was RESOLVED that, subject to a majority vote in the referendum:

a)     the Colston Bassett Neighbourhood Plan be ‘made’; and

b)     authority be delegated to the Executive Manager – Communities to issue a statement setting out this decision as soon as possible following the referendum.

The report of the Executive Manager – Neighbourhoods is attached.

The Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety, Councillor Inglis presented the report of the Executive Manger – Neighbourhoods providing updates to the Street Tracing Policy and clarified that the Policy was from 2020 to 2025 and not 2019 to 2024 as referred to in the report.

Councillor Inglis advised that this new Policy was an advancement to the Borough’s current implementation of match day street trading restrictions surrounding Trent Bridge and the City Ground. Due to its success, the Policy had been prepared to encompass the entire Borough.  The draft Policy had been subject to consultation in September 2019 and subsequently endorsed by the Licensing Committee in November 2019. Several streets would be designated as prohibited, with no street trading permitted for those areas listed in the document. The remaining streets would be designated consent streets, requiring permission from the Council, with landowners’ authorisation being a condition. The aim of the Policy was to create a street trading environment that complimented the Council’s premises based trading, whilst being sensitive to the needs of residents, seeking to advance diversity of choice and enhance the character and safety of local environments. It would ensure that traders met all legal and trading standards. The Policy would ensure that Licensing Officers had the authority to ensure compliance, with the aim of having a minimum of three star food hygiene rating for all food outlets. The adoption of the Policy would support the Council with control over street trading and provide greater clarity to the trade regarding compliance and officers were thanked for their hard work in preparing this comprehensive document.        

The report was moved by Councillor Inglis.

In seconding the recommendation, Councillor Williams stated that this comprehensive Policy would ensure the improvement of food hygiene standards and the reduction in the use of single-use plastics was welcomed. 

Councillor J Walker stated that she had a pecuniary interest and would leave the room.

Having declared an interest, Councillor J Walker left the room.

Councillor Gray stated that the Labour Group supported the recommendation and reiterated the importance of improving food hygiene standards to a three star rating.

Councillor Major confirmed that the Liberal Democrat Group supported the recommendation.

Councillor Richard Mallender confirmed that the Green Group supported the recommendation and welcomed the improved environmental standards and the push to reduce the use of single use plastics.  The pollution caused by heavy traffic in the area, particularly on match days was a concern. It was also hoped that in future, the use of diesel generators in mobile units would decrease and more battery power generation should be encouraged to reduce further pollution.  

It was RESOLVED that the draft Street Trading Policy 2020 – 2025 be approved and adopted.

Councillor J Walker returned to the meeting.

The report of the Executive Manager – Neighbourhoods is attached.

The Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety, Councillor Inglis presented the report of the Executive Manager – Neighbourhoods providing updates to the Private Hire and Hackney Carriage Policy.

Councillor Inglis advised that this was an interim report prior to the structured five-year review due in 2022, which embraced new legislation and driver standard recommendations. Both Hackney Carriage and Private Hire vehicles provided a vital service and its visible role portrayed an image of both the Council and the Borough. The comprehensive Policy, which outlined requirements, and standards that had to be met had been put out to full consultation in September 2019. Customers and in particular the disabled and children should feel safe and be protected and expected high standards of vehicle safety and driver integrity. The Policy outlined requirements to current legislation and regulations, the age, condition and types of vehicles and consideration of passenger access, comfort and cleanliness. The Policy had considered the impact on Hackney Carriage drivers of having to invest in new vehicles to meet greater stringent regulations, by allowing vehicles registered after 2011 to be licensed, rather than newer vehicles to provide a buffer to them in preparation for future environmental and emissions criteria. That would help to maintain a sustainable and viable business for the taxi trade to operate. It was important to ensure a positive customer experience and it was envisaged that the Policy would ensure that both the industry and the local and night-time economies would continue to thrive.   

The report was moved by Councillor Inglis.

In seconding the recommendation, Councillor Healey referred to the importance of maintaining excellent passenger safety and the service operating to the highest standards and this Policy would ensure that.

Councillor Gray advised that the Labour Group had no specific comments to make regarding the Policy and would be interested in hearing the views of other Councillors.

Councillor Jones commented that whilst the Liberal Democrat Group was supportive of the majority of the document, the Group could not support the recommendation as it was concerned that there were insufficient environmental standards proposed for the vehicle emissions, with the option to allow vehicles registered in 2011 to be licensed until 2023. In addition, Euro 4 emission standards were being accepted, whilst Euro 6 level was available. 

Councillor Richard Mallender advised that whilst the Green Group supported the majority of the document, it would not be supporting the recommendation, as the Council was missing an opportunity to improve vehicle standards and emissions. By adopting this Policy, the Council would fall behind other Councils, with most pursuing a phased approach to removing diesel vehicles. This Council should be setting higher targets to reduce emissions and adopt a timescale for drivers to move to new vehicles. Wherever possible, fully electric vehicles should be introduced or at least hybrid. As the majority of taxis worked in West Bridgford, many around the sporting venues, it was important that emissions were lowered to create a healthy environment and positive image. The Policy  ...  view the full minutes text for item 61.

To receive Notices of Motion submitted under Standing Order No.12

a)        Following the resounding election result in December 2019 and our welcome departure from the EU in January 2020, this Council calls on the new Government to: 

·                Increase infrastructure investment across the East Midlands and in our Towns and Villages;

·                Implement new, higher, national environmental standards for house building; 

·                Increase funding to Local Authorities, Police, Health and Schools;

·                Redesign the business rates system to one that supports the local economy and is also fit for purpose to support Local Government in the future; and

·                Create a healthy and prosperous environment for businesses in the Borough to grow and take full advantage of new freedoms outside EU bureaucracy and regulation.

Councillor S Robinson

b)        This Council resolves:

·                to actively promote a public awareness campaign about the impact of fireworks on vulnerable people and animal welfare – including the precautions that can be taken to mitigate risks;

·                to encourage all public firework displays within the local authority boundaries to be advertised in advance of the event, allowing residents to take precautions for their vulnerable people and animals;

·                similarly, to encourage residents to advise their neighbours in advance of private displays;

·                to promote awareness of alternatives for both public and private displays including laser/light shows and quieter fireworks; and

·                to actively consider such alternatives when planning Rushcliffe's own displays and celebrations.

Councillor C Thomas

c)         Having regard to the extent of approved building in Rushcliffe and evidence of non compliance by developers, the Council will review its planning enforcement policy with a view to increasing efforts to enforce compliance with approved plans, conditions and Council Planning Documents in conjunction with the Growth Scrutiny Group and report any recommendations back to Cabinet.

Councillor R Jones

d)        We call on this Council to actively support alternative forms of transport into Nottingham, in particular cycling, and ask that a detailed piece of work is undertaken by Scrutiny and reported back to Cabinet, on improvements that could be made to the cycling network in Rushcliffe and how these could be achieved.

Councillor J Walker

a)    The following motion was moved by Councillor Robinson and seconded by Councillor Brennan.

“Following the resounding election result in December 2019 and our welcome departure from the EU in January 2020, this Council calls on the new Government to:

·           Increase infrastructure investment across the East Midlands and in our Towns and Villages;

·           Implement new, higher, national environmental standards for house building;

·           Increase funding to Local Authorities, Police, Health and Schools;

·           Redesign the business rates system to one that supports the local economy and is also fit for purpose to support Local Government in the future; and

·           Create a healthy and prosperous environment for businesses in the Borough to grow and take full advantage of new freedoms outside EU bureaucracy and regulation.”

Councillor Robinson, in moving the motion stated that it was important and timely to put this forward, as the country had left the EU and a new Government had been elected. The motion sent a clear message that the East Midlands needed Government investment. As discussed earlier in the meeting, formal bodies were in place to drive the region forward and the investment would help all of the Borough’s residents. The motion referred to increasing infrastructure, improving environmental standards for house building, which Rushcliffe was already championing, and ensuring that local businesses received more support from central Government by redesigning the business rates system, which currently gave large organisations a huge advantage over local retailers. The decision to finally leave the EU had been welcomed by local businesses and there was a growing confidence of a prosperous future, free from EU bureaucracy and protectionism, with the freedom to make decisions ourselves. The motion sent a strong message on behalf of Rushcliffe to the Government and it was hoped that it would be supported. 

In seconding the motion, Councillor Brennan reiterated the comments made by Councillor Robinson that it was timely and pertinent that this motion should come before Council for the benefit of Rushcliffe businesses and residents. Whilst it was acknowledged that leaving the EU remained a divisive issue, the country was now free to trade and define itself once again on the global stage. Released resources should be invested into our own infrastructure and spent on our priorities. The Council called on the Government to use those resources in the East Midlands and particularly across Rushcliffe to enable the Council to support local residents and businesses to take advantage of the new opportunities this era would bring. Business rates should be fair, with the system recognising new shopping trends and the challenges faced by traditional high street retailers. A greater proportion of business rates should be retained in the Borough to support key Council services and to invest in the local economy. Historically the East Midlands region has been under funded and the Council calls upon the Government to invest in public services and local government. It was time to look forward to future achievements that would benefit everyone in the Borough.

Councillor Gray  ...  view the full minutes text for item 62.

To answer questions submitted by Councillors under Standing Order No. 11(2)

Councillor Robinson called to adjourn the meeting, as there was insufficient time to conclude the remaining business on the agenda.

Councillor Mason seconded the motion to adjourn the meeting.

Councillor Jones raised a point of order and stated that under Standing Orders, Council meetings proceeded until 10pm and then a vote was taken to decide if the meeting should be extended until 10.30.

The Monitoring Officer advised that a motion without notice to adjourn the meeting had been moved and seconded in accordance with the Standing Orders and accordingly should be voted on. The Mayor as the meeting Chairman was entitled to put the motion to vote without a debate.

There was no further debate. After being put to the vote, the motion was carried.

It was RESOLVED that in accordance with the Council’s Constitution, the Mayor closed the meeting at 9.50pm and all remaining items were adjourned to the next ordinary Council meeting in July 2020.