Agenda, decisions and minutes

At this point, Members are asked to declare:

·        any personal interests not included on the Register of Interests

·        any prejudicial interests or

·        any disclosable pecuniary interests

which they may have in respect of business on this agenda.

Members were asked to declare, at this point in the meeting, any personal interests, not included on the Register of Interests, or any prejudicial or disclosable pecuniary interests they may have in respect of business on the agenda.

Councillor D’Agorne, declared a personal non prejudicial interest in relation to agenda item 8 – York’s Southern Gateway as a member of the Cyclists’ Touring Club.

To approve and sign the minutes of the last Executive meeting held on 24 September 2015.

Resolved:  That the minutes of the last meeting of the Executive held on 24 September 2015 be approved and signed by the Chair as a correct record.

At this point in the meeting members of the public who have registered to speak can do so.  The deadline for registering is 5.00pm on Wednesday 28 October 2015.  Members of the public can speak on agenda items or matters within the remit of the committee.

To register to speak please contact the Democracy Officer for the meeting, on the details at the foot of the agenda.

Filming, Recording or Webcasting Meetings

“Please note this meeting will be filmed and webcast and that includes any registered public speakers, who have given their permission.  This broadcast can be viewed at http://www.york.gov.uk/webcasts.

Residents are welcome to photograph, film or record Councillors and Officers at all meetings open to the press and public. This includes the use of social media reporting, i.e. tweeting.  Anyone wishing to film, record or take photos at any public meeting should contact the Democracy Officer (whose contact details are at the foot of this agenda) in advance of the meeting.

The Council’s protocol on Webcasting, Filming & Recording of Meetings ensures that these practices are carried out in a manner both respectful to the conduct of the meeting and all those present.  It can be viewed at http://www.york.gov.uk/downloads/file/6453/protocol_for_webcasting_filming_and_recording_of_council_meetingspdf

It was reported that there had been thirteen registrations to speak at the meeting under the Council’s Public Participation Scheme and that six Members of Council had also requested to speak on items, details of which are set out below:

Next Phase of the Older Persons’ Accommodation Programme: Grove House and Oak haven Older Persons’ Homes

Anthony Coleman spoke as the organiser of a petition opposing the closure of Grove House. He referred to the letters submitted setting out his family’s reasons for opposing the closure and highlighted the excellent staff and care the home offered. He requested Members to reconsider the proposals.

Carole Simmons spoke on behalf of residents and families connected to the Oakhaven Older Persons’ Home, and in particular questioning the level of engagement and information contained in the Officer’s report. She said that the needs of residents should be first and foremost when considering any changes.

Aidan Rylatt, read a statement on behalf of Cllr Craghill in relation to the ward perspective of the proposals for Grove House and the surrounding area. Whilst acknowledging the limits on funding she referred to the challenging deadlines and questioned the proposed options for the three further Council owned homes and the use of any capital receipts in the locality. She asked for assurances that there would be flexibility for residents and their families during any moves.

Andrea Dudding speaking on behalf of Unison referred to the elderly citizen’s affected by the proposed moves and to future demographic problems likely to arise from a growing elderly population. She referred to the costs of outsourcing the services and to concerns regarding the staff at risk and echoed Rachael Maskell MP’s concerns regarding timelines and geographical challenges.  

The Future of York’s Guildhall and Riverside

Charles Cecil, spoke on behalf of the creative industries sector and whilst in support of Option 4, to create a serviced office venue in the Guildhall, he highlighted the large digital creative sector in York and Yorkshire. He referred to the opportunities this presented for the city and suggested that ideally the complex should be used to set up a digital creative media hub for York and the surrounding area.

Cllr Levene spoke as Chair of the Corporate & Scrutiny Management Policy & Scrutiny Committee thanking the Executive for the opportunity to feed in comments in relation to proposals for the Guildhall. He reported the Scrutiny Committee’s support for Option 4 as it was felt that it ensured public access, protected the city’s heritage, encouraged high value jobs and provided the best financial return for both the Council and the city.

Cllr Taylor spoke to support the recommendation for the future of the Guildhall. He acknowledged that this would provide a sustainable future for the site and support the city as theUK's firstUNESCO City of Media Arts.

York’s Southern Gateway

John Reeves spoke as Chair of the Helmsley Group, referring to previous master plans prepared for this part of the city over a number of years.  He  ...  view the full minutes text for item 63.

To receive details of those items that are listed on the Forward Plan for the next two Executive meetings.

Members received and noted details of those items on the Forward Plan for the next two Executive meetings, at the time the agenda was published.

The purpose of this report is to provide Members with the results of the consultation undertaken with the residents, relatives and staff of Grove House and Oakhaven residential care homes to explore the option to close each home with current residents moving to alternative accommodation, and for Members to make a decision about whether to close Grove House and Oakhaven.

Resolved: That the Executive agree to:

(i)           Note that the Older Persons’ Accommodation Programme aims to address the needs and aspirations of older people who need accommodation and care, both now and in the future, equipping York to meet their needs by delivering new Extra Care accommodation and good quality residential and nursing provision which meets modern day standards.

(ii)          Receive the outcome of the consultation undertaken with residents, family, carers and staff of Grove House and Oakhaven to explore the option to close each home with current residents moving to alternative accommodation.

(iii)        The closure of Grove House and Oakhaven residential care homes and require that residents’ moves to their new homes are carefully planned and managed in line with the Moving Homes Safely protocol.

               (iv)    The Grove House site being sold forthwith in order to generate a capital receipt to support the wider Older Persons’ Accommodation Programme.

(v)         The procurement of a partner to develop the Oakhaven site as a new Extra Care facility for Acomb.

Reason:    In order to increase the supply of good quality accommodation with care for independent living together with new residential and nursing home provision to address the changing needs and aspirations amongst York’s older population and ensuring that more can choose to live independently at home.

Consideration was given to the report of the Director of Adult Social Care which set out the results of the consultation undertaken with residents, relatives and staff of Grove House and Oakhaven residential care homes to explore the option to close the homes.  Members considered the issues raised as a result of the consultation responses and transition plan and future use of the Grove House and Oakhaven sites.

An email received from Rachael Maskell MP, in response to the consultation on care home closures, was also circulated at the meeting, in which a request was made for an extension of the deadline for closure and consultation in relation to accommodation in the Acomb area.

Officers acknowledged the difficulties in moving vulnerable residents but it was confirmed that this would be carried out in a sensitive manner and managed in line with the Council’s protocol.  However they highlighted the need to meet people’s changing needs and provide additional extra care, and new good quality, residential and nursing care accommodation.   In answer to earlier speakers comments they confirmed that there would be some flexibility around the timeline for resident’s moves, that consultation would be undertaken on the sites future use and that the capital receipts would be used to expand the provision of additional homes where possible.

Members confirmed that account had been taken of comments from both earlier speakers and the consultation comments and whilst they appreciated the difficulties involved in the transition process they wanted to ensure that residents were only moved once and that it was important to provide sufficient accommodation of a quality to meet residents’ expectations.

In answer to Members’ comments Officers also confirmed that the authority would continue work to provide additional elderly persons’ accommodation in the west of the city.

Following further discussion it was

Resolved: That the Executive agree to:

(i)           Note that the Older Persons’ Accommodation Programme aims to address the needs and aspirations of older people who need accommodation and care, both now and in the future, equipping York to meet their needs by delivering new Extra Care accommodation and good quality residential and nursing provision which meets modern day standards.

(ii)          Receive the outcome of the consultation undertaken with residents, family, carers and staff of Grove House and Oakhaven to explore the option to close each home with current residents moving to alternative accommodation.

(iii)        The closure of Grove House and Oakhaven residential care homes and require that residents’ moves to their new homes are carefully planned and managed in line with the Moving Homes Safely protocol. ^1.

               (iv)    The Grove House site being sold forthwith in order to generate a capital receipt to support the wider Older Persons’ Accommodation Programme.

(v)         The procurement of a partner to develop the Oakhaven site as a new Extra Care facility for Acomb. ^2.

Reason:    In order to increase the supply of good quality accommodation with care for independent living together with new residential and nursing home provision to address the changing needs  ...  view the full minutes text for item 65.

This report examines the means to provide a viable future for the Burnholme school site in Heworth ward. Members are asked to agree further work to identify partners to progress the continued community and sports use of the site, complemented with wider health and enterprise services, the building and operation of a residential care home for older people and the provision of housing.

Resolved:  That the Executive agree to:

(i)                 Note progress towards achieving new uses for the Burnholme site.

(ii)                Seek interest from partners to progress:

·          continued community and sports use on the site;

·          a residential care home for older people;

·          housing provision;

·          health services delivered in a community setting.

(iii)              Agree that Officers develop a spatial plan for site in order to maximise land use and draw up a development timetable, utilising resources already held in the Older Persons’ Accommodation Programme budget.

(iv)              Request that a report is brought back to Executive in Q1 2016 to further examine the risks and rewards of the development and approve the approach/s to procurement of relevant partners.

Reason:  (i) (ii)    To secure the most appropriate and best value approach to develop and deliver the vision for the Burnholme Health & Wellness Campus including the delivery of a residential care home as part of the Older Persons’ Accommodation Programme.

(iii)       So that best use is made of this site.

(iv)       So that the project can progress.

Members considered a report which examined proposed uses for the Burnholme School site, following the closure of the school in 2014. The report asked the Executive to support further work to identify partners to progress the continued community and sports use of the site together with health and enterprise services, the building and operation of a residential care home for older people and the provision of housing.

Officers confirmed that the public open space, shown as site B on the plans attached to the report, was intended to be retained for sports use and active leisure by Applefield’s and other educational establishments and the local community. They also confirmed that ongoing maintenance on the site boundaries would continue.

Members highlighted the importance of the site and its contribution to the social care and public health agenda for the local area and welcomed a report back to the Executive in the new year on project progress.

The Chair confirmed that is was important that all options for the site were considered and that whilst he could not give a guarantee regarding Area B he confirmed that sports facilities would be retained on the site.

It was noted that the following options had been considered:

Option 1 whereby the 3,960 sqm building range within Area A on the east of the site would be refurbished, incorporating the school hall, main corridor and sports facilities, to be refurbished to accommodate the community and third sector tenants, community-facing activity and enterprise spaces, and sports users. 

Alternative variations had also been considered (Options 2 and 3), and rejected as not securing best value.

Option 4 had looked at retaining but modernising the original sports facilities and providing new-build accommodation for the range of other community and enterprise activities.

Resolved:  That the Executive agree to:

(i)                 Note progress towards achieving new uses for the Burnholme site.

(ii)                Seek interest from partners to progress:

·          continued community and sports use on the site;

·          a residential care home for older people;

·          housing provision;

·          health services delivered in a community setting.

(iii)              Agree that Officers develop a spatial plan for the site in order to maximise land use and draw up a development timetable, utilising resources already held in the Older Persons’ Accommodation Programme budget.

(iv)              Request that a report is brought back to Executive in Q1 2016 to further examine the risks and rewards of the development and approve the approach/s to procurement of relevant partners.^1.

Reason:  (i) (ii)    To secure the most appropriate and best value approach to develop and deliver the vision for the Burnholme Health & Wellness Campus including the delivery of a residential care home as part of the Older Persons’ Accommodation Programme.

(iii)       So that best use is made of this site.

(iv)       So that the project can progress.

The purpose of this report is to agree the next steps necessary to secure the future of the Guildhall complex following the project review, as agreed by Executive on 30 July 2015, and in response to the recommendations of the recent Scrutiny review.

Resolved: That the Executive approve the Scrutiny recommendation and confirm detailed project development work as follows:

(i)           Approve option 4 of the project review; to create a serviced office venue with virtual office and business club facilities.  This option secures the future of the Guildhall by maximising the benefits of; the different spaces within the complex, its heritage appeal, the accessible location, and also ensures ongoing council use and public access, in a mixed use development.

(ii)          Confirm the appointment of a multi-disciplinary design team led by architects Burrell Foley Fischer, selected following a detailed and EU compliant procurement process, and agree that further design work is undertaken to develop a detailed scheme and associated business case, based on the approved option.   Project development will be progressed on a stage by stage basis, drawing on the previously approved development budget of £500k, with a report back to Executive for final approval to proceed in summer 2016.

(iii)        Confirm the selection of a commercial operating partner. The project team will consider the most appropriate and advantageous lease or service contract arrangements.  The selection process to be confirmed following legal advice on the most effective option.

(iv)        Confirm a programme of engagement with the City’s business sector / target market to understand their requirements, facilitated through joint working with project partners; the Universities and Make it York.

Reason:    (i)       To ensure that the ongoing project development is based upon the most advantageous and viable option for this key council asset.

(ii)      To ensure that the necessary detail is available to inform an Executive decision on project delivery in summer 2016.

(iii)     To ensure that the Guildhall will attract the high levels of use necessary to secure future viability, delivery of the wider economic benefits to the City, and manage the financial risk to the Council.

(iv)    To ensure that the Guildhall offer will meet the needs of business and that the detailed business model is based on sound assumptions.

Consideration was to a report which asked Members to agree the next steps necessary to secure the future of the Guildhall complex, following the project review as agreed by the Executive and in response to the recommendations of the recent scrutiny review.

It was noted that the options under consideration had been:

Option 1 - A generic grade A office development requiring a new build north annex and including a high standard of fit-out, including air conditioning to this area, and with significant refurbishment of the retained Victorian office areas.  

Option 2 - A commercial offer envisaged as being a visitor attraction occupying the Victorian council offices, Guildhall and council chamber, with the south range restaurant and north range cafe bar included.  Additional food / leisure units would occupy a new build annex.

Option 3 - A generic grade A office development at ground floor level, but with 6 no. high specification apartments at first and second floor levels, envisaged as holiday lets, providing a rental income stream. This option would still require a new build annex. The Guildhall main hall and the council chamber would be comprehensively refurbished and the south range restaurant and north range cafe bar would be included.

Option 4 – A scheme offering serviced managed office space in conjunction with virtual office / business club services, based on a refurbished annex, with an additional floor added.  This would take advantage of the character spaces that would be created for hot desks / break out space allowing high density occupation. The Guildhall main hall and council chamber would be comprehensively refurbished and the south range restaurant and north range cafe bar would be included.

Full details of the project options and progress to date were reported together with the following recommendation of the Corporate and Scrutiny Management Policy and Scrutiny Committee, following their detailed consideration of all the options :

Option 4 –  was recommended as the preferred option as this was seen as a viable option, and the one which would best secure the future of the complex by taking account of the key objectives.

In answer to Members’ questions Officers confirmed that, in view of Members’ interest in the Guildhall, they would be kept fully informed as the project progressed.

The Chair also thanked Cllr Levene and the scrutiny committee for their work in relation to this project and reiterated Members involvement in the project as work progressed.

Resolved:           That the Executive approve the Scrutiny recommendation and confirm detailed project development work as follows:

(i)           Approve option 4 of the project review; to create a serviced office venue with virtual office and business club facilities.  This option secures the future of the Guildhall by maximising the benefits of; the different spaces within the complex, its heritage appeal, the accessible location, and also ensures ongoing council use and public access, in a mixed use development.

(ii)          Confirm the appointment of a multi-disciplinary design team led by architects Burrell Foley Fischer, selected following a detailed and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 67.

This report sets out proposals to kick-start development along Piccadilly whilst simultaneously exploring the potential use of other council assets in the Southern Gateway (the area around Piccadilly, the Eye of York, St George’s Field and the Foss Basin) to improve and regenerate the area.

Resolved: That the Executive agree to:

(i)           Progress to the development stage of the Southern Gateway project and to appoint a Project Manager using grant funding from One Public Estate to take this work forward.

(ii)          Commence a procurement exercise to identify a joint venture partner to redevelop 17-21 Piccadilly.

(iii)        Create a conceptual framework for development of the Southern Gateway area and prepare for a public consultation.

(iv)    Develop a business case for development of the Southern Gateway which will involve undertaking feasibility work to assess the technical, planning and financial deliverability of development of the Southern Gateway. A report will be brought back to Executive to agree a future approach.

(v)     A budget of £185,000 to be financed from New Homes Bonus, with specific allocations from the budget to be confirmed by the Chief Executive and the Leader of the Council, to enable development of a fully worked up business case for the development of the Southern Gateway area.

(vi)    Undertake transport modelling and review parking and access arrangements for the Southern Gateway area.

(vii)    Explore potential delivery mechanisms and commence discussions with land owners in the area.

Reason:     To deliver early improvement to Piccadilly, to generate capital receipt, and to develop robust plans for the future regeneration of the Southern Gateway area.

The Executive considered a report which set out proposals to kick-start development along Piccadilly and explored the potential use of other council assets in the Southern Gateway around Piccadilly, the Eye of York, St George’s Field and the Foss Basin in order to improve and regenerate the area.

Officers confirmed the need for a fresh vision for this important entrance to the city and the provision of a framework which would allow developers to come forward with proposals for the site to provide a high quality public realm. It was noted that Officers had undertaken preliminary visioning and evaluation work to explore a high level proposition for a scheme however there were a number of technical issues which needed to be overcome. Officers also confirmed that they would welcome Member engagement.

Members expressed their support for the regeneration of the area, the procurement process, financing and for cross party involvement on the future proposals.

In answer to Members’ questions Officers confirmed that demolition on the Reynard’s site would commence on 2 November and take place over a 5 week period. It was also noted that the Environment Agency were being consulted regarding flooding and the development of this area.

Consideration was then given to the following options:

Option 1 - Leave the market to drive change with CYC contributing with the sale for redevelopment of some of its own assets

Option 2 - Develop a comprehensive master planning approach to create a regeneration scheme and use planning policy to control and steer development across the area.

Option 3 - Work with private and public sector land owners to harness the momentum of current developments whilst using CYC assets to maximise development opportunities and establish a quality benchmark for development in the area and it was

Resolved: That the Executive agree to:

(i)           Progress to the development stage of the Southern Gateway project and to appoint a Project Manager using grant funding from One Public Estate to take this work forward.

(ii)          Commence a procurement exercise to identify a joint venture partner to redevelop 17-21 Piccadilly

(iii)        Create a conceptual framework for development of the Southern Gateway area and prepare for a public consultation.

(iv)    Develop a business case for development of the Southern Gateway which will involve undertaking feasibility work to assess the technical, planning and financial deliverability of development of the Southern Gateway. A report will be brought back to Executive to agree a future approach.

(v)     A budget of £185,000 to be financed from New Homes Bonus, with specific allocations from the budget to be confirmed by the Chief Executive and the Leader of the Council, to enable development of a fully worked up business case for the development of the Southern Gateway area.

(vi)    Undertake transport modelling and review parking and access arrangements for the Southern Gateway area.

(vii)    Explore potential delivery mechanisms and commence discussions with land owners in the area. ^1.

Reason:     To deliver early improvement to Piccadilly, to generate capital receipt, and to develop  ...  view the full minutes text for item 68.

This report reviews whether and/or how to restrict traffic on Coppergate and recommends restricting traffic using the present 2013 Traffic Regulation Order and carrying out consultation in respect of ensuring adequate signage prior to commencing civil enforcement of the bus lane by camera.

Resolved:  That the Executive agree to:

(i)     The York (Coppergate)(Local Bus Priority) Traffic Order 2013 being amended to change the timing of the restrictions in accordance with Option 5b(retain the 7 day operation but return to the 8am to 6pm time period), and that civil enforcement be suspended until a review of the signage has been undertaken and revised signage has been agreed by Members; and

(ii)    The Executive Member for Planning & Transport being delegated to agree the consultation detail for the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) and signage; and

(iii)   Officers undertaking a review of the signage to convey the meaning of the revised Order and this shall include appropriate consultation; and

(iv)   The final revised signage scheme and consideration of any objections to the amended TRO being brought back to the Executive for approval prior to commencement of any civil enforcement by camera.

Reasons:   To provide more certainty for effective civil enforcement by camera of the restrictions in order to reduce the impact of traffic on a key public transport and busy pedestrian area in the City Centre.

Consideration was given to a report which explained the background to traffic management of Coppergate to date and  reviewed whether and/or how to restrict traffic in Coppergate in the future.

Prior to any further work by Officers Members were asked to consider the following options:

Option 1 – Retention of existing 2013 Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) – with a review of the signage

Option 2 – Revocation of the 2013

Option 3   – Amendment of the vehicular exemptions in the TRO to allow Buses and Taxis only

Option 4 – Not Undertaking Civil Enforcement of the Traffic Regulation Order

Option 5 - Amending the Time of the Restrictions

Option 5a – Returning to the previous 8am to 6pm Monday to Saturday time of operation

Option 5b – Retaining the 7 day operation but returning to the 8am to 6pm time period

The Executive Member expressed his support for the amendment of the timing of the restrictions in accordance with Option 5 b) and the delegation of the consultation and detail of the TRO.

Following discussion it was

Resolved:  That the Executive agree to:

(i)     The York (Coppergate)(Local Bus Priority) Traffic Order 2013 being amended to change the timing of the restrictions in accordance with Option 5b (retain the 7 day operation but return to the 8am to 6pm time period), and that civil enforcement be suspended until a review of the signage has been undertaken and revised signage has been agreed by Members; and

(ii)    The Executive Member for Planning & Transport being delegated to agree the consultation detail for the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) and signage; and ^1.

(iii)   Officers undertaking a review of the signage to convey the meaning of the revised Order and this shall include appropriate consultation; and

(iv)   The final revised signage scheme and consideration of any objections to the amended TRO being brought back to the Executive for approval prior to commencement of any civil enforcement by camera.^2.

Reasons:   To provide more certainty for effective civil enforcement by camera of the restrictions in order to reduce the impact of traffic on a key public transport and busy pedestrian area in the City Centre.

This report provides the Executive with background on York’s current Council Tax Support scheme, details of existing financial support available, the number of CTS customers seeking support and what further steps could be taken to support our most financially vulnerable customers in the short term but also in a sustainable way going forward.  

Resolved:  That the Executive approve:

(i)           Option 3 to put the Council Tax Support Scheme out to a shortened consultation process to fit in with the 31 January 2016 deadline, in advance of the respective budget setting processes. 

(ii)          The following changes to the Council’s calendar of meetings, in order to allow a decision to be taken by Full Council on any changes to the Council Tax Scheme:

·        Executive on17 December 2015 – bring forward to 15 December 2015

·        Full Council on10 December 2015 - move to 17 December 2015

(iii)        The detail of the scheme changes for consultation, to be developed by the Director of Customer & Business Support Services in consultation with the Portfolio Holders.

Reason:     To ensure members are fully informed of the options and implications of decisions made in light of this review of the CTS.

The Executive considered a report which had been prepared in response to their request for a review of York’s Council Tax Support Scheme (CTS) and a recent Council motion. The report set out the background to the current scheme, existing financial support available, the number of CTS customers and further steps that could be undertaken to support financially vulnerable residents.

Members noted that any change to the scheme would require widespread consultation and that any proposed changes would require Full Council approval on or before 31 January preceding the start of the financial year. To meet this requirement would require changes to both the Executive and Full Council dates in December.

Members expressed their support for undertaking a shortened consultation to enable any changes to be agreed prior to the start of the financial year and thanked Officers for their work on the report and examination of other authorities’ schemes.

Consideration was then given the following options in relation to CTS and the York Financial Assistance Scheme (YFAS):    

Option 1 – Maintain the current cap (70%);

Option 2 – Maintain the current cap and consider consultation on the scheme during 2016 for implementation in 2017/18, with the interim development of a one year scheme for short term relief;

Option 3 – Put the scheme out to a shortened consultation process to fit in with the 31^st January 2016 deadline for implementation in 2016/17;

Option 4 – Any of the above three options together with the development of a cohesive strategy with the council’s partners to implement and promote a sustainable approach to financial support available under YFAS as described in paragraph 24, subject to YFAS funding continuing.

Resolved:  That the Executive approve:

(i)           Option 3 to put the Council Tax Support Scheme out to a shortened consultation process to fit in with the 31 January 2016 deadline, in advance of the respective budget setting processes. ^1.

(ii)          The following changes to the Council’s calendar of meetings, in order to allow a decision to be taken by Full Council on any changes to the Council Tax Scheme:

·        Executive on17 December 2015 – bring forward to 15 December 2015

·        Full Council on10 December 2015 - move to 17 December 2015 ^2.

(iii)        The detail of the scheme changes for consultation, to be developed by the Director of Customer & Business Support Services in consultation with the Portfolio Holders.

Reason:     To ensure members are fully informed of the options and implications of decisions made in light of this review of the CTS.

This report provides an update on City of York Council’s approach to apprenticeships and employment offer to young people and seeks Members’ approval to continue with planned work.  Members are also asked to approve recommendations to increase Year 1 apprenticeship pay.

Resolved:    (i)    That the Executive notes the following progress and plans:

·               the further development of the council’s in-house apprenticeship and future workforce offer, aligned to future skills need;

·               to increase pre-apprenticeship provision by CYC, through structured work experience and supported traineeship/internship programmes, in line with city-wide initiatives;

·               to ensure that CYC upholds its responsibility as corporate parent to vulnerable groups (including children living in care, care leavers, NEET and SEND populations) through ring-fenced access to work placements and support in gaining apprenticeships.

(ii)          That the Executive agree to increase current Year 1 pay in line with National Minimum Wage increases from October 1st 2015 and review annually in line with other council employee groups.

Reason:     To ensure Executive members are informed of the CYC approach to apprenticeships and that proposals are aligned with likely national policy direction.

Consideration was given to a report of the Director of Customer and Business Support Services which provided an update on the Council’s approach to apprenticeships and employment offer to young people.

The Executive Member highlighted the recent fall in numbers on the apprenticeship programme and the need to lead by example as a positive role model for apprentice and traineeship employers across the city.  He also expressed support for the increase in Year 1 pay in line with the National Minimum Wage and for regular reports back on the schemes progress.

Other Members also expressed support for the aim to improve representation from the vulnerable and hard to reach groups through supported recruitment and targeted campaigns.

It was noted that there were no alternative options for recommendation a) which asked members to note the progress and plans as outlined in the report and thatMembers could choose to agree or to disagree with the proposed increase to Year 1 apprentice pay rates at recommendation b).

Resolved:     (i)   That the Executive notes the following progress and plans:

·        the further development of the council’s in-house apprenticeship and future workforce offer, aligned to future skills need;

·        to increase pre-apprenticeship provision by CYC, through structured work experience and supported traineeship/internship programmes, in line with city-wide initiatives;

·      to ensure that CYC upholds its responsibility as corporate parent to vulnerable groups (including children living in care, care leavers, NEET and SEND populations) through ring-fenced access to work placements and support in gaining apprenticeships.

(ii)          That the Executive agree to increase current Year 1 pay in line with National Minimum Wage increases from October 1st 2015 and review annually in line with other council employee groups.^1.

Reason:     To ensure Executive members are informed of the CYC approach to apprenticeships and that proposals are aligned with likely national policy direction.

This report presents the recommendations from a meeting of the Local Plan Working Group held on 29 September 2015 in respect of the City of York Local Plan – Objective Assessment of Housing Need and Economic Growth and asks Members to consider the advice given by the Group in their capacity as an advisory body to the Executive, in relation to these reports.

Resolved:  That the Executive note the recommendations in the Local Plan Working Group minutes attached at Annex A of the report and approve the specific recommendations made by the Group in respect of the Objective Assessment of Housing Need and Economic Growth.

Reason:    To fulfil the requirements of the Council’s Constitution in relation to the role of Working Groups.

Members considered the recommendations of the Local Plan Working Group (LPWG), from their meeting held on 29 September 2015, in relation to the City of York Local Plan – Objective Assessment of Housing Need (OAHN) and Economic Growth in their capacity as an advisory body to the Executive.

Officers confirmed that the housing figures in the OAHN had been produced by Arup as part of the evidence base for the emerging local plan which would be used as a starting point to establish the amount of housing land required in the Plan. It was noted that Arup had also advised that the Universities expected student numbers to grow at the same rate over the plan period and there had been no evidence to suggest that the figure should be adjusted to take account of student numbers. However a report on the student population, numbers etc would be considered by the LPWG at a later date. 

Resolved:  That the Executive note the recommendations in the Local Plan Working Group minutes attached at Annex A of the report and approve the specific recommendations made by the Group in respect of the Objective Assessment of Housing Need and Economic Growth.

Reason:    To fulfil the requirements of the Council’s Constitution in relation to the role of Working Groups.

This report is in response to the motion passed by Council on 11 December 2014 in relation to protecting public houses.  It provides Members with background information in relation to the options available to the Council to potentially afford greater protection to public houses, including Article 4 Directions and the Assets of Community Value Register.

Resolved:   That having considered  the options,  recommendation of the Local Plan Working Group and the various representations Executive agree for:

(i)           Council to build on Option one in the report and to note the desire of the Local Plan Working Group to go above and beyond this in proactively encourage awareness of protecting community pubs with ACV’s (Assets of Community Value), including featuring in the Our City newsletter;

(ii)          The important role of ward councillors in pinpointing pubs and other community assets for consideration for protection be acknowledged and a member briefing note and all member sessions be organised; other interested parties including Parish Councillors and Residents Associations to be allowed to attend.

(iii)        A dedicated page on the council website be set-up to provide guidance on the process for registering as an ACV. This page to include links to where user friendly advice on making an application can be found.

(iv)        A press release be sent to relevant media outlets, working with interested parties including York CAMRA and pub landlords offering interviews / photo opportunities, emphasising work on pub protection;

(v)         An investigation of a collaboration with local media outlets similar to that of ‘Be Vocal For Your Local’;

(vi)        Continuing work with interested parties including York CAMRA and pub landlords in the formulation of pub friendly planning law within the Local Plan to ensure as and when there are planning applications the Local Plan is robust enough to stop inappropriate development that would be detrimental to a particular pub and associated community.

(vii)      Continuing to monitor the workload and associated costs of work being done, mindful of what is legally required and also how potentially working with other interested parties saves the council work.

Reason:     To more widely promote the assets of community value register and to provide communities with guidance on how pubs can be nominated and protected through the register, with the aim to ensure that valued public houses are afforded protection from change of use and demolition.

Consideration was given to a report prepared in response to a motion passed by Council on 11 December 2014 in relation to the protection of public houses. The report provided background information in relation to the options available to the Council to afford greater protection to public houses.

Copies of the draft minutes of the Local Plan Working Group (LPWG) meeting on 19 October 2015 setting out in Minute 9 details of the Group’s deliberations and recommendations in response to the motion, was circulated at the meeting. It was noted that the LPWG had considered the following options and they had recommended their support for Options 1and 2 as a minimum:

1. More widely promote the provisions for nominating the listing of pubs as assets of community value and provide guidance on the nomination process and consider any request for immediate Article 4 Directions for specific public houses where there is a justified and urgent requirement for protection.

2. Explore the implementation of a city wide Article 4 Direction to remove permitted development rights and protect public houses.

3. No further work to be undertaken.

4. Another alternative approach to protecting public houses proposed by Members.

It was also noted that the Leader had confirmed that he would be exploring further options and undertaking talks with interested stakeholders prior to the Executive meeting.

The Chair confirmed details of his further discussions with interested stakeholders and Members to ascertain the most appropriate method of providing greater protection. He confirmed that following discussions with a number of interested parties and listening to earlier speakers he suggested a number of revisions to the Officer recommendation and it was

Resolved:   That having considered the options, recommendation of the Local Plan Working Group and the various representations Executive agree for:

(i)           Council to build on Option one in the report and to note the desire of the Local Plan Working Group to go above and beyond this in proactively encourage awareness of protecting community pubs with ACV’s (Assets of Community Value), including featuring in the Our City newsletter;

(ii)          The important role of ward councillors in pinpointing pubs and other community assets for consideration for protection be acknowledged and a member briefing note and all member sessions be organised; other interested parties including Parish Councillors and Residents Associations to be allowed to attend.

(iii)        A dedicated page on the council website be set-up to provide guidance on the process for registering as an ACV. This page to include links to where user friendly advice on making an application can be found.

(iv)        A press release be sent to relevant media outlets, working with interested parties including York CAMRA and pub landlords offering interviews / photo opportunities, emphasising work on pub protection;

(v)         An investigation of a collaboration with local media outlets similar to that of ‘Be Vocal For Your Local’;

(vi)        Continuing work with interested parties including York CAMRA and pub landlords in the formulation of pub friendly planning law within the Local Plan  ...  view the full minutes text for item 73.

This report updates Members on progress on the Minerals and Waste Joint Plan that City of York Council is producing with North Yorkshire County Council and the North Yorks National Park Authority, and asks Members to approve the Preferred Options documents for public consultation.

Resolved:           That the Executive agree to note progress on the Minerals and Waste Joint Plan and approve the Preferred Options documents for public consultation.

Reason:     So that the Minerals and Waste Joint Plan can be progressed.

Members considered an update report on progress on the Minerals and Waste Joint Plan produced in conjunction with North Yorkshire County Council and the North York Moors National Park Authority.

Members were asked to approve the Preferred Options document for public consultation.

Copies of the draft minutes of the LPWG meeting on 19 October 2015 which set out in Minute 10 details of the Group’s deliberations and recommendations in relation to the Plan was circulated at the meeting. It was noted that the LPWG had considered the following options and had recommended their support for Option (ii) to approve the document subject to a number of amendments details of which were also circulated at the meeting together with a note on fracking:

The following Options had been considered by the LPWG:

i)             Members approve the Preferred Options documents attached at Annexes A-D for the purpose of public consultation;

ii)            Members approve Preferred Options documents attached at Annexes A-D subject to amendments agreed at this meeting;

iii)          Members reject the Preferred Options documents and request that further work is undertaken.

In response to earlier speakers comments Officers confirmed that, following agreement, the document would be sent out for an 8 week consultation period which would allow residents to make any further representations on the Plans content.

Members continued to raise concerns in relation fracking and the potential impact on flooding in the area and it was noted that a report on the impact of flooding was due from the Environment Agency in January details of which would be included in the Plans policies.

Resolved:           That the Executive agree to note progress on the Minerals and Waste Joint Plan and approve the Preferred Options documents for public consultation. ^1.

Reason:     So that the Minerals and Waste Joint Plan can be progressed.