Councillors and committees

Agenda, decisions and minutes

Venue: Remote Meeting

Contact: Vicky Hibbert or Huma Younis  Email: huma.younis@surreycc.gov.uk

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172/20

Apologies for Absence

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    Minutes:

    Apologies were received from Colin Kemp. The Deputy Cabinet Member to the Leader would be joining the meeting later.

173/20

Minutes of Previous Meeting: 27 October 2020 pdf icon PDF 458 KB

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    Minutes:

    The Minutes of the Cabinet meeting held on 27 October were approved as a correct record of the meeting.

     

174/20

Declarations of Interest

175/20

Procedural Matters

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    Minutes:

    The Leader explained that progress had been made with various vaccines to tackle the Covid-19 virus. Councils would be made aware on Thursday which tier they would be placed in. The Leader restated the importance of abiding by current social distancing and hygiene rules to tackle the virus. Although the number of positive results in Surrey were declining, some district and boroughs were experiencing spikes in the virus. The Leader went onto give an update on the Covid-19 community impact assessment and how this would help tackle and highlight the disproportionate impacts of the virus on various vulnerable communities and individuals in Surrey. This in turn has helped Surrey refresh and renew its organisation strategy ensuring that nobody is left behind, focusing on four priority areas.

175/201

Members' Questions pdf icon PDF 284 KB

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    Minutes:

    There were four Member questions. The questions and responses were published as a supplement to the agenda. Mr Will Forster thanked the Cabinet Member for the reply to his questions. With regards to his second question, Mr Forster stated that he was concerned about the amount of time it was taking the council to decide the future of the Manor School site in Byfleet. He added if the Cabinet Member would disclose the confidential plans for the site. The Cabinet Member for All-Age Learning stated that details of the site would be shared with Mr Forster very soon.

     

    Thanking the Cabinet Member for his response, Mr Essex asked a supplementary question with regards to his Member Question (4) querying, what was the level of ambition for the county to have a completely zero emissions carbon bus fleet. The Cabinet Member for Transport stated that this work would be one of the largest in the county and across the UK in terms of investment into low emission buses with 70-80 zero or low emission buses. Having 11% of the existing buses being replaced in the first initiative was something to celebrate in the county.

     

176/20

Public Questions pdf icon PDF 380 KB

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    Minutes:

    There were two public questions. The questions and responses were published as a supplement to the agenda. Mr Paul Kennedy thanked the Leader for his response and accepted that a five day delay in coronavirus data was appropriate. He asked a supplementary question which was if the presentation of this data as a ‘daily update’ would be changed as it is misleading to the public. The Leader stated that he would review the presentation of this data alongside the Director of Public Health and the Communications Team.

     

177/20

Petitions

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    Decision:

    There were none.

    Minutes:

    There were none.

178/20

Representations received on reports to be considered in private

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    Minutes:

    There were none.

179/20

Reports from Select Committees, Task Groups, Local Committees and other Committees of the Council

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    Minutes:

    There were none.

180/20

Leader / Deputy Leader / Cabinet Member/ Strategic Investment Board Decisions Taken Since the Last Cabinet Meeting pdf icon PDF 125 KB

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    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    That the delegated decisions taken since the last meeting of the Cabinet be noted.

     

    Reason for decision:

     

    To inform the Cabinet of decisions taken by Cabinet Members, Strategic Investment Board and the Committee in Common subcommittee under delegated authority.

     

    Minutes:

    There were two decisions to note. In relation to the first decision the Cabinet Member for Resources explained that there were a number of properties  that needed to be transferred from various ownerships following the decision to change the relationship with Surrey Wildlife Trust. To date 23 have been completed, 70 to be completed by year end, which leaves 8 properties that have individual issues which will need to be resolved.

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    That the delegated decisions taken since the last meeting of the Cabinet be noted.

     

    Reason for decision:

     

    To inform the Cabinet of decisions taken by Cabinet Members, Strategic Investment Board and the Committee in Common subcommittee under delegated authority.

     

181/20

Cabinet Member Update pdf icon PDF 201 KB

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    Minutes:

    The report was introduced by the Cabinet Member for All-Age Learning who thanked all the dedicated staff across all of the Directorates, the leadership teams, teachers and support staff at all schools and colleges for their hard work to support young people during the pandemic. Some highlights from the report were discussed. It was explained that the SEND Capital Programme was progressing well and in line with planning and procurement timescales. The remaining Phase 1 projects for the expansion of maintained special schools from September 2021, was in the final stages of planning or have contractors appointed. These Capital projects would deliver the remaining 108 places of the total approved for the first phase of the programme. The second phase would create 213 additional places across Surrey’s SEND estate to bring more children and young people with complex needs closer to home, as well as reducing the reliance on out of county and non- maintained independent schools. With regards to attendance at schools this had been in line with the previous year and compares well with national data. Most schools have remained open throughout with some cases of ‘bubbles’ within schools having to isolate. Details of the winter funding package are being examined with school leaders to make sure children are supported in the most effective way during the holidays. An update was given on the launch of the Learners’ Single Point of Access (L-SPA) with 65% of calls coming in from parents/carers and 32% from education providers and professionals. Most calls were being resolved at the first point of contact by the Contact Centre. The Cabinet Member explained that the councils adult and community education provision would continue to develop the availability of apprenticeships and training courses working with the economic recovery group to look at provision which would address the skills gap and enable those who have recently lost their jobs to study for qualifications which will increase their employability.

     

    The Cabinet Member for Children’s, Young People and Families explained that the Learners’ Single Point of Access (L-SPA) was welcomed by all and was delivering promises to families. The L-SPA would be co-located with the C-SPA. The Cabinet Member for Communities commended the Cabinet Member for All-Age Learning and education officers on the work undertaken to keep schools open and supporting the most vulnerable through extraordinary times.

     

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    That the Cabinet Member update be noted.

     

182/20

Covid-19 Delegated and Urgent Decisions Taken pdf icon PDF 211 KB

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    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    That the decision taken by officers since the last meeting be noted.

     

    Reason for decision:

     

    To inform the Cabinet of decisions taken by officers under delegated authority.

     

    [This decision is subject to call-in by the relevant Select Committee Chairman dependent on the recommendation.]

     

    Minutes:

    The Leader explained that there was one decision to note in regards to the second round of the Infection Control Grant Funding which would see the council receiving £15.8m. This funding would be split into three elements.

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    That the decision taken by officers since the last meeting be noted.

     

    Reason for decision:

     

    To inform the Cabinet of decisions taken by officers under delegated authority.

     

    [This decision is subject to call-in by the relevant Select Committee Chairman dependent on the recommendation.]

     

183/20

Covid-19 Update pdf icon PDF 450 KB

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    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the latest public health situation with regard to Covid-19 in Surrey, the new national restrictions that have come into place with the second Lockdown and the actions being delivered through Surrey’s Local Outbreak Control Plan be endorsed and noted.

    2. That the latest impacts on Adult Social Care and Children’s, Families, Lifelong learning and Culture services and the management and mitigation of them be noted.

     

    1. That the ongoing support to vulnerable residents, including through the County Council Community Helpline and the allocation of emergency funding to District and Borough Councils be endorsed and noted.

     

    1. That the latest Covid-19 financial position as reported in the M6 (September) Financial report be noted.

     

    Reason for Decision:

     

    The county and council continue to face unprecedented challenges due to the Covid-19 crisis. In addition to the response activity, the council continues to look forward to how it can work with its partners to enable recovery within the county and a return to day-to-day life for our communities following the end of the second national lockdown and more long term into the future.

     

    The recommendations set out in this report ensure Cabinet are appraised of the work going on across the council to protect, sustain and support our residents and communities and the economy of Surrey.

     

    [Where necessary a waiver for call-in will be sought from the relevant Select Committee Chairman.]

     

     

    Minutes:

    The Leader introduced the report and flagged that from 26 November the national test and trace programme would be supplemented with a local Surrey test and trace programme which would be run by the customer services team alongside public health staff. A COVID Champions initiative is being implemented to further engage key parts of the community. District and boroughs have engaged well with this programme. The Leader announced that Surrey’s share of the government winter funding would be used to support free school meals during the Christmas holidays.

     

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the latest public health situation with regard to Covid-19 in Surrey, the new national restrictions that have come into place with the second Lockdown and the actions being delivered through Surrey’s Local Outbreak Control Plan be endorsed and noted.

    2. That the latest impacts on Adult Social Care and Children’s, Families, Lifelong learning and Culture services and the management and mitigation of them be noted.

     

    1. That the ongoing support to vulnerable residents, including through the County Council Community Helpline and the allocation of emergency funding to District and Borough Councils be endorsed and noted.

     

    1. That the latest Covid-19 financial position as reported in the M6 (September) Financial report be noted.

     

    Reason for Decision:

     

    The county and council continue to face unprecedented challenges due to the Covid-19 crisis. In addition to the response activity, the council continues to look forward to how it can work with its partners to enable recovery within the county and a return to day-to-day life for our communities following the end of the second national lockdown and more long term into the future.

     

    The recommendations set out in this report ensure Cabinet are appraised of the work going on across the council to protect, sustain and support our residents and communities and the economy of Surrey.

     

    [Where necessary a waiver for call-in will be sought from the relevant Select Committee Chairman.]

     

     

184/20

2021/22 Draft Budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy pdf icon PDF 306 KB

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    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the 2021/22 Draft Budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy to 2025/26, including progress to date in setting out spending pressures and efficiencies, as set out in Annex 1 be noted.

     

    1. That the provisional budget gap of £18.3m for 2021/22 and the next steps required to close the gap be noted.

     

    1. That the proposed Capital Programme for 2021/22 to 2025/26 of £1.7bn be noted.

     

    Reason for Decision:

     

    In January 2021, Cabinet will be asked to recommend a Final Budget for 2021/22 to full Council for approval in February. The draft budget sets out proposals to direct available resources to support the achievement of the Council’s corporate priorities in the refreshed Organisation Strategy, giving Cabinet the opportunity to comment on the proposals and next steps.

    The draft budget also provides an update on the continuing transformational changes that are required to ensure that the Council can continue prioritising outcomes for residents, while managing growing demand for services while ensuring future financial resilience and sustainability.

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Performance & Resources Select Committee]

     

     

    Minutes:

    The report was introduced by the Cabinet Member for Resources whom explained that the Council had a statutory duty to set a balanced budget in advance of each financial year. The Final Budget for 2021/22 would be approved by Cabinet in January 2021 and full Council in February 2021. The Cabinet Member was of the view that the draft budget was realistic and deliverable and would continue to stabilise the county’s financial position. The budget would be adjusted when the final settlement is announced by the government. Good progress had been made over the last few months in reducing the original budget gap from £67m to the current provisional budget with a gap of £18.3m. Work to close the gap will remain until the budget is presented to full Council in February 2021. The Cabinet Member ran through the highlights within the report and stated that the report not only contains the detailed service budgets and their respective pressures, but also the refreshed organisation strategy which now addresses the changing strategic context in which the Council finds itself operating due to the impacts of the covid-19 pandemic. The paper also outlines a summary of the refresh transformation programme. The Cabinet Member explained that the budget had been set on three main principles and gave details of each. The Cabinet Member was of the view that the County’s finances were in significantly better position than they were two years ago. Details of the draft budget were covered in more detail by the Cabinet Member including revenue and capital budgets, business rates, national and local funding contexts and service budget envelopes.

     

    The Deputy Cabinet Member for Resources supported the draft budget and stated that this was a positive step towards delivering a balanced budget built on a stable financial position which would not have been possible without great leadership from the Cabinet Member for Resources and Section 151 officer and his finance team.  The creation of the Your Fund Surrey was a good example of the councils stable and robust financial position. The Leader recognised the stable financial position the council had achieved which allowed the county to invest in the future with a number of capital programmes. The Leader stated that he hoped that the government could give longer term security in term of what funding would look like longer term rather than one year spending reviews. The budget would go through the scrutiny process later in the year. The Leader paid special thanks to the Cabinet Member for Resources, Deputy Cabinet Member for Resources and finance officers.

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the 2021/22 Draft Budget and Medium-Term Financial Strategy to 2025/26, including progress to date in setting out spending pressures and efficiencies, as set out in Annex 1 be noted.

     

    1. That the provisional budget gap of £18.3m for 2021/22 and the next steps required to close the gap be noted.

     

    1. That the proposed Capital Programme for 2021/22 to 2025/26 of £1.7bn be noted.

     

    Reason for Decision:

     

    In January 2021, Cabinet will be  ...  view the full minutes text for item 184/20

185/20

Accelerating the Introduction of Ultra Low / Zero Emissions Buses and Community Transport Vehicles into Surrey pdf icon PDF 352 KB

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    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the establishment of a Surrey Ultra-Low and Zero Emission Scheme that will accelerate the introduction of ultra-low and zero emission vehicles onto a range of bus and community transport services, inclusive of supporting industry investment be supported.
    2. That the Surrey Ultra-Low and Zero Emission Scheme detail and implementation, once agreed by the Capital Programme Panel, be delegated to the Executive Director, Environment, Transport & Infrastructure, the Executive Director of Resources and the Director of Law & Governance in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Transport, including moving the required capital funding from the Capital Pipeline to the capital budget so that the programme can moved forward.

    Reason for Decision:

    The establishment of a Surrey Ultra-Low and Zero Emission Scheme will accelerate the substantive introduction of ultra-low and zero emissions buses and minibuses into Surrey than would otherwise have been the case with operator investment alone, in a post-Covid 19 financial and operational climate. The project also encompasses investment in bus priority measures at pinch-points on the highway to improve bus journey times and real time passenger information to aid resident knowledge and travel decision making. It also includes complementary investment by bus operators and community transport providers to maximise the number of ultra-low and zero emission vehicles to be introduced over the lifetime of the project, thus generating further reductions in emissions from transport operations.

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee]

     

     

     

     

    Minutes:

    The report was introduced by the Cabinet Member for Transport whom explained that a zero emission ultra- low emissions scheme backed by county council funding to generate supporting industry investment had been introduced. This would support ambitions for a greener future and our climate change strategy. Providing sustainable transport options would contribute to a reduction in harmful emissions, moving us toward net zero carbon as well as helping our communities to be resilient and well connected. The scheme would accelerate the introduction of Ultra Lone Zero emission buses and minibuses into Surrey and would encompass bus priority measures and pinch points on the highway as well as real time journey information. It was added that complimentary investment by the bus operators and community transport would be included in the project. The project would see the introduction of between 70 and 80 ultra-low or zero emission buses, alongside over 50 Community Transport (CT) minibuses, over the next five years. This was believed to be the first occasion that a scheme of such magnitude would have been introduced in one area of the UK. Work had progressed closely with partners whom were excited for the opportunities that lay ahead. It was added that bids would be prioritised for areas with declared Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs). The bus element of the Surrey Ultra-Low and Zero Emission Scheme is £32.3m of capital funding with an additional £9m which will go into bus priority measures.

     

    Mr Mike Goodman was invited to speak on the item and lent his support to the establishment of the Surrey Ultra-Low and Zero Emission Scheme and congratulated the Cabinet Member and officers on the work undertaken. The exciting project demonstrates the desire of the council to tackle climate change and support residents living in AQMAs.

     

    The Cabinet supported the report focusing on the desire of the council to reduce carbon emissions in Surrey and tackle climate change, prioritise pinch point areas and focus resources on areas with AQMAs.   

     

    The Cabinet Member for Transport explained that work was being undertaken closely with operators and bus operators had thanked the council for continuing with payments during the pandemic. Partnerships were key to the Scheme and operators had agreed to accelerate more buses and investment into the network.

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the establishment of a Surrey Ultra-Low and Zero Emission Scheme that will accelerate the introduction of ultra-low and zero emission vehicles onto a range of bus and community transport services, inclusive of supporting industry investment be supported.
    2. That the Surrey Ultra-Low and Zero Emission Scheme detail and implementation, once agreed by the Capital Programme Panel, be delegated to the Executive Director, Environment, Transport & Infrastructure, the Executive Director of Resources and the Director of Law & Governance in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Transport, including moving the required capital funding from the Capital Pipeline to the capital budget so that the programme can moved forward.

    Reason for Decision:

    The establishment of a Surrey Ultra-Low and Zero Emission Scheme will accelerate the substantive  ...  view the full minutes text for item 185/20

186/20

Covid-19 Community Impact Assessment pdf icon PDF 325 KB

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    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the findings from the Covid-19 Community Impact Assessment, summarised in Annex 1 be noted.

    2. That the findings from the Covid-19 Community Impact Assessment and how they can best be incorporated into the council’s strategic, financial and service planning and delivery be considered.

    3. That areas or issues of interest and for future focus in terms of further research and analysis be highlighted.

     

    Reason for Decision:

     

    Thousands of community members and people working in frontline services have taken part in the CIA through interviews, focus groups and surveys, and the findings are rooted in what they have told us. Further incorporating the CIA findings into the council’s strategic and operational planning is an opportunity to embed community voices in our work, support affected communities, build community resilience as the pandemic continues and support Surrey’s recovery.

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Performance & Resources Select Committee]

     

     

    Minutes:

    The report was introduced by the Leader whom explained that the Covid-19 Community Impact Assessment (CIA) explored how communities across Surrey had been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, what support communities needed as the pandemic continues, and communities’ priorities for recovery. The CIA would be used to provide targeted support to communities that need it, especially vulnerable communities and had fed into the four priority areas of the refreshed organisation strategy.

     

    The Leader noted that in paragraph 7 of the report, Surrey Voluntary Action should actually read Surrey Community Action.

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the findings from the Covid-19 Community Impact Assessment, summarised in Annex 1 be noted.

    2. That the findings from the Covid-19 Community Impact Assessment and how they can best be incorporated into the council’s strategic, financial and service planning and delivery be considered.

    3. That areas or issues of interest and for future focus in terms of further research and analysis be highlighted.

     

    Reason for Decision:

     

    Thousands of community members and people working in frontline services have taken part in the CIA through interviews, focus groups and surveys, and the findings are rooted in what they have told us. Further incorporating the CIA findings into the council’s strategic and operational planning is an opportunity to embed community voices in our work, support affected communities, build community resilience as the pandemic continues and support Surrey’s recovery.

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Performance & Resources Select Committee]

     

     

187/20

Transformation of Accommodation Based Care and Support for Working Age Adults: Delivering Supported Independent Living Options pdf icon PDF 389 KB

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    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the approach to delivering the published strategic aim of increasing the proportion of working age adults with support needs living in supported independent living settings be approved.

     

    1. That the sites disclosed in Part 2 of this paper to be used to deliver new supported independent living accommodation be approved in principle.  Business cases will be presented to Cabinet to confirm final approval for the development of these sites for independent living.

     

    Reason for Decision:

     

    The Council has published its strategic aim to reduce the number of people with a learning disability and/or autism in residential care by 40-50% over the next five years by expanding the development of supported independent living provision. 

    The Community Vision for Surrey 2030 states “By 2030, Surrey will be a uniquely special place where everyone has a great start to life, people live healthy and fulfilling lives, are enabled to achieve their full potential and contribute to their community, and no one is left behind.  One of the underpinning principles is that “Everyone has a place they can call home, with appropriate housing for all”.  The development of supported independent living accommodation is central to this Vision being realised for working age adults in Surrey who are eligible for ASC. The provision of this accommodation alongside the commissioning of appropriate care and support will enable people to live as independently as possible and deliver positive outcomes to individuals and their families/carers.

    The transformation of Surrey’s approach to providing accommodation with care and support is expected to generate significant efficiencies.  Based on financial modelling to date £4.4m of efficiencies have been included in the 2021-26 MTFS, with the potential for greater efficiencies through completing all of the transfers to independent living planned.

    Partnership with District and Borough Councils offers benefits to all parties. Some D&Bs have indicated that they might be able to help SCC secure housing options that are well placed, in locations that offer community inclusion and employment opportunities.  They have also indicated that they are keen to release properties that are not well matched to their own client base but could be appropriate for ASC clients.  This would be in exchange for other properties which are more appropriate to their client base.

    Review of SCC’s current estate portfolio will allow us to re-use or optimise existing freehold assets, as well as the opportunity to co-locate with other Council services.

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Adults and Health Select Committee]

     

     

     

     

    Minutes:

    The Cabinet for Adults and Public Health introduced the report stating that she was pleased to be announcing the delivery of 500 independent living schemes for our most vulnerable residents. Progress had been made through the use of external partnerships, void properties and other initiatives. The Council would commission a variety of supported independent living housing options so that appropriate housing is available to meet a range of needs where individuals have increased choice and control over the support they receive. The report is a great example of the council’s commitment to empowering communities and would help fulfil the ambitious accommodation with care and support strategy.

     

    The Deputy Cabinet Member for Place welcomed the report and the council’s commitment to providing residents with an increased choice in choosing accommodation options available to meet their care needs. The programme would truly transform the lives of residents with learning disabilities and autism. The Cabinet Member for Children’s, Young People and Families welcomed the more independent style of accommodation proposed in the report and agreed it was a fantastic move into the 21st century. The Cabinet Member for Communities supported the proposals in the report and was pleased to see the council delivering yet again on a bold ambition.

     

    Sinead Mooney left the meeting at 15:15 and re-joined the meeting at 15:22

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the approach to delivering the published strategic aim of increasing the proportion of working age adults with support needs living in supported independent living settings be approved.

     

    1. That the sites disclosed in Part 2 of this paper to be used to deliver new supported independent living accommodation be approved in principle.  Business cases will be presented to Cabinet to confirm final approval for the development of these sites for independent living.

     

    Reason for Decision:

     

    The Council has published its strategic aim to reduce the number of people with a learning disability and/or autism in residential care by 40-50% over the next five years by expanding the development of supported independent living provision. 

    The Community Vision for Surrey 2030 states “By 2030, Surrey will be a uniquely special place where everyone has a great start to life, people live healthy and fulfilling lives, are enabled to achieve their full potential and contribute to their community, and no one is left behind.  One of the underpinning principles is that “Everyone has a place they can call home, with appropriate housing for all”.  The development of supported independent living accommodation is central to this Vision being realised for working age adults in Surrey who are eligible for ASC. The provision of this accommodation alongside the commissioning of appropriate care and support will enable people to live as independently as possible and deliver positive outcomes to individuals and their families/carers.

    The transformation of Surrey’s approach to providing accommodation with care and support is expected to generate significant efficiencies.  Based on financial modelling to date £4.4m of efficiencies have been included in the 2021-26 MTFS, with the potential for  ...  view the full minutes text for item 187/20

188/20

Revised Minerals and Waste Development Scheme pdf icon PDF 314 KB

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    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1.    That the proposed revised Minerals and Waste Development Scheme October 2020, which includes the intention to produce a joint Surrey Minerals and Waste Local Plan be approved.

     

    Reason for Decision:

     

    It is a statutory requirement to produce the MWDS and to keep it up to date. The current SMLP was adopted in 2011 and the current Aggregates Recycling Joint DPD was adopted in 2013. Government expects that such plans are regularly reviewed and updated as necessary based on up to date evidence.

     

    Additionally, in order to a produce a new joint SMWLP, a review of the current Surrey Waste Local Plan would also need to be undertaken (alongside the planned review of the SMLP). This will help to reflect the synergies that exist between the two different sets of policies as the council undertakes future planning. Accordingly, this change of approach would also be set out within the updated MWDS. 

     

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee]

     

     

    Minutes:

    The Cabinet for Environment and Climate Change introduced the report explaining that the report would bring forward a program to update the Minerals and Waste Development Scheme which was last updated in 2011. The intention was to now produce a joint Minerals and Waste Local Plan which would reflect the synergies between the two separate policies. All Members would be kept informed and kept up to date on the development on the joint Plan with regular Cabinet updates and member briefings. An issues and options consultation would also come forward next June to keep the public informed on progress.

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1.    That the proposed revised Minerals and Waste Development Scheme October 2020, which includes the intention to produce a joint Surrey Minerals and Waste Local Plan be approved.

     

    Reason for Decision:

     

    It is a statutory requirement to produce the MWDS and to keep it up to date. The current SMLP was adopted in 2011 and the current Aggregates Recycling Joint DPD was adopted in 2013. Government expects that such plans are regularly reviewed and updated as necessary based on up to date evidence.

     

    Additionally, in order to a produce a new joint SMWLP, a review of the current Surrey Waste Local Plan would also need to be undertaken (alongside the planned review of the SMLP). This will help to reflect the synergies that exist between the two different sets of policies as the council undertakes future planning. Accordingly, this change of approach would also be set out within the updated MWDS. 

     

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee]

     

     

189/20

Blackwater Valley Hot Spots LEP Highway Improvement Scheme pdf icon PDF 316 KB

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    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That officers are instructed to work with the EM3 LEP to review the delivery programme in order to minimise financial risk to the County Council.

    2. That the County Council and Guildford Borough Council engage in active conversations about financial contributions.

    3. That approval is given to proceed on the basis of the funding strategy set out in paragraph 15, with the final agreement of funding terms delegated to the Executive Director Environment, Transport and Infrastructure, in consultation with the Executive Director of Resources and the Cabinet Member for Highways.

    4.    That the Executive Director for Environment, Transport & Infrastructure, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Highways be authorised to agree any additional funding agreements and authorise both the A31 j/w A331 and the A323 j/w A324 schemes be further developed and constructed by the County Council on behalf of Guildford Borough Council.

    Reason for Decision:

     

    The proposed junction improvements will improve road conditions for vulnerable road users, increase highway capacity and support GBC’s local plan.  To deliver these improvements, the County Council needs to secure additional capital funding to cover the current project funding gap.

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee]

     

     

     

     

     

    Minutes:

    The report was introduced by the Cabinet Member for Transport who explained that this was a key priority for Guildford. In 2016, Guildford Borough Council (GBC) secured funding from Enterprise M3 Local Economic Partnership (EM3 LEP) to deliver highway improvements tackling congestion hotspots to support their Local Plan. The improvements are proposed for two junctions, namely the A31 j/w A331 and the A323 j/w A324. GBC progressed the two schemes and have managed the project from initiation until July of this year. In July, the Borough Council asked the County Council to step in to deliver the schemes on behalf of GBC. This agreement was made based on the best-known cost estimates provided by GBC at that time. Following a review by County Council officers, the cost estimates have been revised, resulting in the potential for up to a £3.179m funding shortfall. An agreement in principle had been received from GBC to increase funding levels, final agreement is required with GBC and the EM3 LEP so the strategically important project can progress.

     

    The Cabinet Member for All-Age Learning explained that she was a Guildford member and welcomed the council’s expertise to help deliver the project.

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That officers are instructed to work with the EM3 LEP to review the delivery programme in order to minimise financial risk to the County Council.

    2. That the County Council and Guildford Borough Council engage in active conversations about financial contributions.

    3. That approval is given to proceed on the basis of the funding strategy set out in paragraph 15, with the final agreement of funding terms delegated to the Executive Director Environment, Transport and Infrastructure, in consultation with the Executive Director of Resources and the Cabinet Member for Highways.

    4.    That the Executive Director for Environment, Transport & Infrastructure, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Highways be authorised to agree any additional funding agreements and authorise both the A31 j/w A331 and the A323 j/w A324 schemes be further developed and constructed by the County Council on behalf of Guildford Borough Council.

    Reason for Decision:

     

    The proposed junction improvements will improve road conditions for vulnerable road users, increase highway capacity and support GBC’s local plan.  To deliver these improvements, the County Council needs to secure additional capital funding to cover the current project funding gap.

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee]

     

     

     

     

     

190/20

Surrey Schools & Early Years Funding 2021-22 pdf icon PDF 489 KB

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    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1.     That an appeal be lodged with the Secretary of State for Education to overturn the decision of the Schools Forum and permit the transfer of 0.5% of the Schools Block (estimated at £3.4m) to support High Needs SEND.

    2.     That the council implement the DfE’s recommended Minimum Per Pupil Level in full.

    3.     That the Schools Forum’s formula recommendations for Schools and Early Years funding as set out in Annex 4 be approved.

    4.     That authority is delegated to the Director of Education, Lifelong Learning & Culture in consultation with the Cabinet Member for All-Age Learning to approve amendments to the schools and early years additional SEN funding, following further consultation with schools in November and discussion with schools forum in December.

    5.     That authority is delegated to the Director of Education, Lifelong Learning & Culture in consultation with the Cabinet Member for All-Age Learning to approve amendments to the funding rates in the schools and early years formulae as appropriate following receipt of the DSG settlement and DfE pupil data in December 2020. This is to ensure that total allocations to schools under this formula remain affordable within the council’s DSG settlement.

    Reason for Decision:

    To comply with DfE regulations requiring formal council approval of the local funding formula for Surrey’s primary and secondary schools. 

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Children, Families, Lifelong Learning and Culture Select Committee]

     

    Minutes:

    The Cabinet Member for All-Age Learning introduced the report explaining that funding of all Surrey schools (including academies) and of the free entitlement to early years nursery provision are provided from the council’s allocation of Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG). Each local authority is required to consult on and maintain local formula arrangements to allocate DSG to mainstream schools and early years providers. The report highlights the various elements or blocks of funding which make up the DSG. The Department for Education requires formal council approval of the local funding formula. The Cabinet Member highlighted recommendation 1, for an appeal to be lodged with the Secretary of State for Education to overturn the decision of the Schools Forum and permit the transfer of 0.5% of the Schools Block (estimated at £3.4m) to support High Needs SEND.

     

    The Cabinet Member for Children’s, Young People and Families stated her support for recommendation 1, explaining that however uncomfortable it may be to ask to impose this on schools, there was a possibility of the council not being able to operate with the budget envelope for Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The Leader explained that the funding of SEND had been raised with Members of Parliament and was a national issue.

     

    Mark Nuti joined the meeting at 15:30

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1.     That an appeal be lodged with the Secretary of State for Education to overturn the decision of the Schools Forum and permit the transfer of 0.5% of the Schools Block (estimated at £3.4m) to support High Needs SEND.

    2.     That the council implement the DfE’s recommended Minimum Per Pupil Level in full.

    3.     That the Schools Forum’s formula recommendations for Schools and Early Years funding as set out in Annex 4 be approved.

    4.     That authority is delegated to the Director of Education, Lifelong Learning & Culture in consultation with the Cabinet Member for All-Age Learning to approve amendments to the schools and early years additional SEN funding, following further consultation with schools in November and discussion with schools forum in December.

    5.     That authority is delegated to the Director of Education, Lifelong Learning & Culture in consultation with the Cabinet Member for All-Age Learning to approve amendments to the funding rates in the schools and early years formulae as appropriate following receipt of the DSG settlement and DfE pupil data in December 2020. This is to ensure that total allocations to schools under this formula remain affordable within the council’s DSG settlement.

    Reason for Decision:

    To comply with DfE regulations requiring formal council approval of the local funding formula for Surrey’s primary and secondary schools. 

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Children, Families, Lifelong Learning and Culture Select Committee]

     

191/20

Update- Waste PFI Contract pdf icon PDF 288 KB

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    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the contents of this report and the review of the current waste PFI contract be noted.

    Reason for Decision:

    Given the Council’s statutory responsibility as a Waste Disposal Authority, its waste PFI contract plays a critical role in the authority delivering a sustainable approach to managing waste on behalf of the county.  Whilst the provision of a number of the services in the contract are on track, the delays to the delivery of the Anaerobic Digester (AD) and the gasifier have prompted the Council to review its contractual position and to explore what remedies it may have in the resolution of the issues arising. 

     

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee]

     

     

     

    Minutes:

    The Leader explained that over the weekend the Cabinet had received a number of emails from residents regarding the Eco-Park. The report updates residents on the progress of the Eco-Park. The contract and facility had become extremely protracted with frustrations from all parties. Clear legal advice had been sought on how to progress with the contract with a review having been commissioned. Options had been considered but were commercially sensitive.

     

    The Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change assured residents that the Eco-Park would only move into operations once it has passed a number of tests to ensure it was safe and reliable. The council was working to protect the interests of the Surrey taxpayer. A number of issues had been highlighted by residents around noise, congestion and odours. The Cabinet Member gave assurance that emissions from the Eco-Park were being monitored and regulated by the Environmental Agency. Residents with any concerns should directly contact Suez and the Environmental Agency. The Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health explained that she had received correspondence from residents regarding the Eco-Park and would be setting up a working group to review the Eco-Park.

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the contents of this report and the review of the current waste PFI contract be noted.

    Reason for Decision:

    Given the Council’s statutory responsibility as a Waste Disposal Authority, its waste PFI contract plays a critical role in the authority delivering a sustainable approach to managing waste on behalf of the county.  Whilst the provision of a number of the services in the contract are on track, the delays to the delivery of the Anaerobic Digester (AD) and the gasifier have prompted the Council to review its contractual position and to explore what remedies it may have in the resolution of the issues arising. 

     

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee]

     

     

     

192/20

2020/21 Month 6 (September) Financial Report pdf icon PDF 534 KB

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    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1.   That the Council’s forecast revenue and capital budget positions for the year be noted.

    2.   That the reset of the 2020/21 revenue budget envelopes to reflect the additional costs and lost income related to CV-19 be noted.

    3.   That the allocation of £1.6m to the Public Health service to invest in additional service provision be approved. This allocates the final element of a £2.4m increase in Surrey’s Public Health grant in 2020/21, further to the £0.8m increase in Public Health funding included in the June 2020 Cabinet report.

    4.   That a carry forward for the remainder of the £1.6m allocated to the Public Health service which is not spent on additional service provision in the remainder of 2020/21 be approved. This is to secure funding for the additional services commissioned in 2022/23, when (based on the government’s current proposals for overhauling local government funding) the Public Health grant is assumed to become un-ringfenced.

    5.   That the Empty property proposal be approved.

    Reason for Decision:

    This report is to comply with the agreed policy of providing a monthly budget monitoring report to Cabinet for approval of any necessary actions.

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Resources and Performance Select Committee]

     

     

    Minutes:

    The report was introduced by the Cabinet Member for Resources. As at September 2020 (M6) the Council is forecasting a full year £3.5mbusiness as usual overspend against the proposed budget baseline of £1,021.6m; an improvement of £1.2m from M5. The main drivers of the overspend were explained in more detail. Cabinet were asked to approve an allocation of £1.6m to the Public Health service to invest in additional service provision. More detail was provided on the empty property proposal which would encourage district and borough colleagues to reduce the number of empty properties within their areas.

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1.   That the Council’s forecast revenue and capital budget positions for the year be noted.

    2.   That the reset of the 2020/21 revenue budget envelopes to reflect the additional costs and lost income related to CV-19 be noted.

    3.   That the allocation of £1.6m to the Public Health service to invest in additional service provision be approved. This allocates the final element of a £2.4m increase in Surrey’s Public Health grant in 2020/21, further to the £0.8m increase in Public Health funding included in the June 2020 Cabinet report.

    4.   That a carry forward for the remainder of the £1.6m allocated to the Public Health service which is not spent on additional service provision in the remainder of 2020/21 be approved. This is to secure funding for the additional services commissioned in 2022/23, when (based on the government’s current proposals for overhauling local government funding) the Public Health grant is assumed to become un-ringfenced.

    5.   That the Empty property proposal be approved.

    Reason for Decision:

    This report is to comply with the agreed policy of providing a monthly budget monitoring report to Cabinet for approval of any necessary actions.

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Resources and Performance Select Committee]

     

     

193/20

EXCLUSION OF THE PUBLIC

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    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    RESOLVED: That under Section 100(A) of the Local Government Act 1972, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following items of business on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information under the relevant paragraphs of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Act.

     

    Minutes:

    RESOLVED: That under Section 100(A) of the Local Government Act 1972, the public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following items of business on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information under the relevant paragraphs of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Act.

     

194/20

Transformation of Accommodation Based Care and Support for Working Age Adults: Delivering Supported Independent Living Options

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

    1. That approval is given in principle for the sites disclosed in Part 2 of the report to be used to deliver new supported independent living accommodation. Business cases will be presented to Cabinet to confirm final approval for the development of these sites for independent living.

    Reason for Decision:

     

    The four sites set out in this paper would deliver circa 85 units of supported independent living accommodation.

    The sites fall within areas of need identified by ASC for the need in provision of supported independent living units.

    The four sites are close to local amenities and public transport as set out in the site criteria requirement (Part 1 Annex 2). This will ensure that residents can retain the independence and staff can easily access the sites

    The latest financial modelling indicates that the transformation of Surrey’s approach to providing accommodation with care and support should generate efficiencies for ASC of £4.4m over the period 2021-26 MTFS.

    Review of SCC’s current estate portfolio will allow us to re-use or optimise existing freehold assets, as well as the opportunity to co-locate with other Council services.

    Approval of the sites set out within the Part 2 of this report will allow full business cases, outlining costings, programme and savings to be worked up and presented to Cabinet for Capital allocation.

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Adults and Health Select Committee]

     

     

    Minutes:

    The Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health introduced a Part 2 report that contained information which was exempt from Access to Information requirements by virtue of paragraph 3 Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including commercially sensitive information to the bidding companies).

     

    RESOLVED:

    1. That approval is given in principle for the sites disclosed in Part 2 of this report to be used to deliver new supported independent living accommodation. Business cases will be presented to Cabinet to confirm final approval for the development of these sites for independent living.

    Reason for Decision:

     

    The four sites set out in this paper would deliver circa 85 units of supported independent living accommodation.

    The sites fall within areas of need identified by ASC for the need in provision of supported independent living units.

    The four sites are close to local amenities and public transport as set out in the site criteria requirement (Part 1 Annex 2). This will ensure that residents can retain the independence and staff can easily access the sites

    The latest financial modelling indicates that the transformation of Surrey’s approach to providing accommodation with care and support should generate efficiencies for ASC of £4.4m over the period 2021-26 MTFS.

    Review of SCC’s current estate portfolio will allow us to re-use or optimise existing freehold assets, as well as the opportunity to co-locate with other Council services.

    Approval of the sites set out within the Part 2 of this report will allow full business cases, outlining costings, programme and savings to be worked up and presented to Cabinet for Capital allocation.

     

     

195/20

Update- Waste PFI Contract

    Additional documents:

    Decision:

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the salient points of the review and the ongoing dynamic strategy and steps needed to manage a complex situation in the best interests of our residents while minimising cost and cost risk exposure be noted.

    Reason for Decision:

     

    The Council’s PFI contract for providing waste services is one of its most financially significant contracts, and as such, it is critical that Cabinet are sighted on relevant developments and the strategy for managing that contract.  This is even more critical given the delays experienced in the construction programme for the Eco Park, and hence the strategy presented specifically highlights measures that officers are pursuing to protect the Council’s interests in respect of these delays.

     

    [The decisions on this item can be called in by the Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee]

     

     

    Minutes:

    The Leader introduced a Part 2 report that contained information which was exempt from Access to Information requirements by virtue of paragraph 3 Information relating to the financial or business affairs of any particular person (including commercially sensitive information to the bidding companies).

     

    RESOLVED:

     

    1. That the salient points of the review and the ongoing dynamic strategy and steps needed to manage a complex situation in the best interests of our residents while minimising cost and cost risk exposure be noted.

    Reason for Decision:

     

    The Council’s PFI contract for providing waste services is one of its most financially significant contracts, and as such, it is critical that Cabinet are sighted on relevant developments and the strategy for managing that contract.  This is even more critical given the delays experienced in the construction programme for the Eco Park, and hence the strategy presented specifically highlights measures that officers are pursuing to protect the Council’s interests in respect of these delays.

     

     

196/20

PUBLICITY FOR PART 2 ITEMS

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    Additional documents:

    Minutes:

    It was agreed that non-exempt information may be made available to the press and public, where appropriate.