Decisions

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Decisions

20/03/2019 - Gateway 1 Procurement Strategy Approval: Southwark Regeneration Partnership Programme Lot B - Copeland Road Car Park Re-Procurement ref: 6759    Recommendations Approved

To approve the procurement strategy for the Copeland Road car park site.

Decision Maker: Strategic Director of Housing

Decision published: 27/03/2019

Effective from: 04/04/2019

Decision:

1.  That the re-procurement strategy outlined in the report for direct award from the Hyde Main Contract and MMC Framework for a two stage design and build contract to deliver 67 new homes (of which 24 will be council homes and 18 will be intermediate homes) on the Copeland Road Car Park site at an estimated works value of £16,145,000 and a 5% contingency of £807,250 for an estimated period of 86 weeks with an estimated start date in April 2019 be approved.

 

2.  That it be noted that there will be estimated external fees of £153,000 for Employer’s Agent services through a separate Gateway process, making a total estimated scheme cost of £17,105,250.


07/01/2019 - Creation of a post - Director of New Homes ref: 6685    Recommendations Approved

To approve the creation of a new post of Director of New Homes.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Social Regeneration, Great Estates and New Council Homes

Decision published: 08/01/2019

Effective from: 16/01/2019

Decision:

That the creation of a new post of Director of New Homes, the purpose and duties which are set out in the job description appended to the report be approved.

Lead officer: Michael Scorer


21/12/2018 - New Common Purpose grants programme awards for 2019 onwards ref: 6684    Recommendations Approved

To approve the funding recommendations for voluntary sector organisations delivering services under the new Common Purpose grants programme 2019 onwards subject to council assembly approval of the council’s budget. The recommendations are set out in Appendix 1 of the report.

Decision Maker: Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, Equalities and Communities

Decision published: 02/01/2019

Effective from: 10/01/2019

Decision:

That the funding recommendations for voluntary sector organisations delivering services under the new Common Purpose grants programme 2019 onwards be approved, subject to council assembly approval of the council’s budget. The recommendations are set out in Appendix 1 of the report.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Kevin Fenton


21/12/2018 - GW1 Procurement Strategy Approval - Plan for Council for the Voluntary Sector (CVS), infrastructure & volunteering services and the Southwark Emergency Support Scheme (SESS) 2019 - 2024 ref: 6683    Recommendations Approved

To approve the procurement strategy for the delivery of a Council for the Voluntary Sector (CVS) infrastructure and volunteering service and Southwark Emergency Support Scheme (SESS) through a single supplier negotiation with Community Southwark.

Decision Maker: Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, Equalities and Communities

Decision published: 21/12/2018

Effective from: 21/12/2018

Decision:

That the procurement strategy for the delivery of a Council for the Voluntary Sector (CVS), infrastructure and volunteering service and Southwark Emergency Support Scheme (SESS), through a single supplier negotiation with Community Southwark for a total estimated annual sum of £783,000 over a period of up to five years (3 + 2 years for CVS service area, 4 + 1 for SESS service area), from 1 April 2019 to 31 March 2024, making a total estimated contract sum of £3,915,000 as set out in the report be approved.

Wards affected: (All Wards);


19/12/2018 - 1 Ann Moss Way, Rotherhithe, London SE16 1TL (Acquisition)    Recommendations Approved

Authority to acquire a former specialist care unit as a potential site for new council housing.

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Decision due date: 22/01/2019

Wards affected: Rotherhithe;

Lead officer: Patrick McGreal

Notice of decision: 19/12/2018


18/12/2018 - Contract Variation Decision - Highways and Professional Services - Duration of Contract Extension ref: 6681    Recommendations Approved

To confirm the period of the extension of the current Highways and Professional Services contract with Conway Aecom.

Decision Maker: Strategic Director of Environment and Social Regeneration

Decision published: 19/12/2018

Effective from: 18/12/2018

Decision:

That the period of the extension (which is within the maximum two year extension period detailed in the Gateway 3 – Variation Decision which was approved by Cabinet on 13 March 2018) of the current Highways and Professional Services contract with Conway Aecom be confirmed as detailed below:

 

·  Lot A Highways Maintenance – extend for a period of one year and three months until 30 June 2020

·  Lob B Project Delivery (Works) – extend for a period of one year and three months until 30 June 2020

·  Lot C Professional Services – extend for a period of one year and nine months until 31 December 2020

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Ian Smith


18/12/2018 - Right to buy discretions ref: 6680    Recommendations Approved

Approval to extend the criteria of the right to buy discretion 2005 policy

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Housing Management and Modernisation

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 05/01/2019

Decision:

That the expansion to the Right to Buy Discretions 2005 policies as set out in the report be approved in order to bring this in line with the guidance provided by the Communities and Local Government paper issued in January 2010 (“Right to Buy – the use of discretionary powers on repayment of discount”).

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Michael Scorer


28/11/2018 - Members' Motions ref: 6651    Information Only

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

A motion to extend the guillotine by 30 minutes was proposed by Councillor Hamish McCallum, seconded by Councillor Sarah King, and agreed.

 

MOTION 1 – A PEOPLE'S VOTE ON BREXIT

 

(see page 29 of the main agenda and pages 9-10 of supplemental agenda no. 1)

 

This motion was considered prior to the guillotine having fallen.

 

Councillor David Noakes, seconded by Councillor Victor Chamberlain, moved the motion.

 

Councillor Vicky Mills, seconded by Councillor James McAsh, moved Amendment C.

 

Councillor Graham Neale, seconded by Councillor Humaira Ali, moved Amendment B.  

 

Following debate (Councillors Renata Hamvas, James Coldwell, Gavin Edwards and David Noakes), Amendment C was put to the vote and declared to be carried.

 

As Amendment C was carried, Amendment B fell

 

The motion was put to the vote and declared to be carried.

 

Note: This motion will be referred as a recommendation to the cabinet for consideration.

 

1.  Council assembly notes that:

 

a.  Southwark’s EU referendum result was one of the highest in the UK in favour of staying in the EU – 73% voted to Remain.

b.  Recent opinion polls indicate that there has been a significant swing in favour of a 'People’s Vote' on the final Brexit deal and polls also indicate a clear opposition to the deal that the Prime Minister has proposed.

c.  The Government’s own impact assessments show that the UK is likely to be worse off in every scenario after Brexit.

d.  A recent report by the Centre for Economic Performance at the London School of Economics noted that Inner London Boroughs like Southwark will be amongst those that will suffer the most from Brexit, of whatever variety.

e.  There will be severe damage to our international relationships, reduced influence with other states, and the complete loss of say and control over the rules of the European Single Market and Customs Union, the largest market in the world.

f.  There are a large number of non-UK EU nationals living in Southwark who are concerned about the impact of Brexit on their lives, and that their current rights are not being fully protected.

g.  The Government has totally mismanaged the Brexit negotiations. The ‘Chequers Statement’, issued on 6th July 2018, (the closest indication yet of what a final deal might look like), has been rejected by EU negotiators and has also managed to alienate both supporters and opponents of Brexit. Similarly, the draft Withdrawal Agreement proposed by the Prime Minister is unlikely to be approved in a vote in Parliament.

h.  The NHS is experiencing severe problems in recruiting and retaining nurses and doctors from other EU countries since the decision was made to leave the European Union, and this is having a real negative impact on the health of local residents.

i.  The UK economy is now the slowest growing economy in Europe, reducing the prosperity of the UK and our local residents. New investment in the area is being jeopardised and new job opportunities are being lost.

j.  Inflation caused by Brexit-related depreciation of the pound is driving up living costs for our poorest residents, further squeezing their living standards.

k.  The Prime Minister’s deal does not meet the six tests set out by the Labour Party in order to support any deal, which are:

  i.  Does it ensure a strong and collaborative future relationship with the EU?

  ii.  Does it deliver the “exact same benefits” as we currently have as members of the Single Market and Customs Union?

  iii.  Does it ensure the fair management of migration in the interests of the economy and communities?

  iv.  Does it defend rights and protections and prevent a race to the bottom?

  v.  Does it protect national security and our capacity to tackle cross-border crime?

  vi.  Does it deliver for all regions and nations of the UK?

l.  The Prime Minister has failed to satisfy members of her own party, the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats that this deal is right for Britain, and she is unlikely to command a Parliamentary majority to approve her deal.

 

2.  In that event, council assembly therefore:

a.  Believes that the people of Southwark should have scrutiny of what is being negotiated on their behalf and an opportunity to vote either in a General Election, or failing that, a public vote on the final deal, including the option to remain in the EU.

b.  Supports all options remaining on the table in the event that a General Election is not called immediately, including formally adding its voice to those calling for a public ‘People’s Vote’ on the final Brexit deal.

c.  Asks the three Members of Parliament that represent Southwark to publicly support a 'People’s Vote' before any version of Brexit is implemented in the event that a General Election is not called immediately.

 

MOTION 2 – SCHOOL CUTS

 

(see page 30 of the main agenda and page 11 of supplemental agenda no. 1)

 

The guillotine having fallen, Amendment D was put to the vote and declared carried.  

 

The motion was put to the vote and declared to be carried.

 

Note: This motion will be referred as a recommendation to the cabinet for consideration.

 

1.  Council assembly notes that as a result of the ongoing government cuts, Southwark’s schools:

a.  Will have lost £17,474,847 in overall funding between 2015-2020, equating to a loss of on average £457 per pupil.

b.  Must bear the brunt of unfunded National Insurance increases.

c.  Will suffer inadequate High Needs Block Funding, leaving our must vulnerable pupils without the support they need.

 

2.  Council assembly further notes:

a.  That despite the savage cuts being imposed by the Conservative government, our hardworking teachers, support staff, students and parents are doing their best to maintain our high standards.

b.  The grassroots Fair Funding For Schools Campaign in Southwark, which is supported by Southwark’s three Labour MPs, Liberal Democrat Councillors and Labour Councillors.

c.  That 90% of Southwark’s schools have been rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, and results continue to improve.

d.  The Chancellor’s Budget announcement for £400 million for schools to spend on ‘little extras’ is a drop in the ocean compared to the £2.5 billion that has been cut since 2015.  Furthermore the £400 million is a one off payment so does not deal with the long term funding crisis in schools.

 

3.  Council assembly resolves to call on cabinet:

a.  To join other councils and Southwark’s MPs in opposing the government’s ongoing cuts to school budgets and call for more funding to be invested in education.

b.  To call on the government to fully fund the pay increase for teachers that is independently recommended by the School Teachers' Review Body.

c.  To support the coalition of trade unions campaigning against school cuts.

d.  To recognise that the Pupil Premium benefits the most disadvantaged pupils in the borough, with Southwark pupils receiving over £112 million since the scheme was introduced, and confirms its commitment to ensuring that pupils continue to receive this support.

 

MOTION 3 – ROYAL BRITISH LEGION COMMEMORATION

 

(see page 30-31 of the main agenda)

 

The guillotine having fallen, the motion was put to the vote and declared to be carried.

 

Note: This motion will be referred as a recommendation to the cabinet for consideration.

 

1.  Council assembly notes:

a.  That November 2018 marks the centenary of the end of the First World War, the world’s first truly global war.

b.  The council’s commitment under the Armed Forces covenant to recognise and remember the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces Community, particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

 

2.  Council assembly therefore gratefully acknowledges:

a.  The 1.1 million United Kingdom and Commonwealth servicemen and women who gave their lives in the First World War.

b.  The contribution of all those who lived through this tragic and remarkable time and whose example and experience shaped the world we live in today.

 

3.  Council assembly asserts its full support for the Royal British Legion’s ‘Thank You’ movement, and the ‘Every One Remembered’ initiative to commemorate each individual who served, sacrificed and changed our world.

 

MOTION 4 – END UNFAIR EVICTIONS - ABOLISH SECTION 21 OF 1988 HOUSING ACT 

 

(see page 31-32 of the main agenda and page 12 of supplemental agenda no. 1)

 

The guillotine having fallen, Amendment E was put to the vote and declared lost.  

 

Late Amendment J was put to the vote and declared carried,

 

The motion was put to the vote and declared to be carried.

 

Note: This motion will be referred as a recommendation to the cabinet for consideration.

 

1.  Council assembly notes:

a.  Due to high house prices and the lack of sufficient social housing, the proportion of people renting privately has doubled since 2004; half of 18-35s, one in four families with children, and growing numbers of older people now live in privately rented homes.

b.  Most of England’s 11 million renters are on tenancies with fixed terms of six months or a year; after this period has ended, landlords can evict their tenants with just two months’ notice, without giving them a reason. These ‘no fault evictions’ were introduced under section 21 of the 1988 Housing Act; before this, renters had much greater security and it was difficult for landlords to evict tenants who paid the rent on time and looked after the property.

c.  Evictions are the number one cause of homelessness across the UK. 80% of evictions are on no-fault grounds, and 63% of private renters who were forced to move in 2016 were evicted not due to any fault of their own but because the landlord wanted to sell or use the property.

d.  In Southwark, the number of accepted homeless applications resulting from the termination of assured short hold tenancies have significantly increased from 4.3% in 2010/11 to 30% in 2016/17. These terminations of short hold tenancies are not just as a result of section 21 notices, but these undoubtedly play a part.

e.  Insecurity harms quality of life for tenants, with private renters less likely than either owners or people in council housing to say they know lots of people in their local area, but more worried that they will have to move within the next year. The threat of being evicted also gives landlords huge power over tenants, who may decide not to complain about disrepair, big rent increases or other problems in case they are kicked out.

f.  In Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden (among other countries), tenancies are indefinite, meaning blameless tenants cannot be evicted from their homes.

g.  In 2017, the Scottish government made tenancies indefinite and banned no-fault evictions under the terms of the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016.

h.  The End Unfair Evictions campaign run by Generation Rent, Acorn, the New Economics Foundation and the London Renters Union, and launched in June 2018.

i.  The nearly 50,000 people who had, by mid-July 2018, signed the 38 Degrees petition to abolish section 21, a growing number of groups and individuals supporting abolition, including Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, the Times newspaper, the London Assembly, the Resolution Foundation and Age UK.

j.  That Labour Shadow Housing Minister, John Healey, has announced that the next Labour Government will tackle no fault evictions and legislate for new renters rights to control costs, improve conditions and increase security.

k.  The commitment of Southwark Labour Group to improving conditions for renters in Southwark, including the manifesto pledge to introduce a Southwark Renters Union and deliver a Southwark Gold Standard for Rental Properties, which will be adopted in the Council Plan.

l.  The work that Southwark Council are already doing to prevent homelessness, including using additional requirements brought into effect by the Housing Act 2004 and the Deregulation Act 2015 to challenge section 21 notices wherever possible.

 

2.  Council assembly believes:

a.  Abolishing section 21 would help to make renting more secure, improve standards, increase tenant confidence and ultimately contribute towards making renting a viable long-term alternative to home ownership or social rent for the millions who currently cannot access either.

b.  Since insecure tenancies make it difficult for renters to complain and organise for their rights, removing section 21 would make it easier for new renter unions like the London Renters Union and ACORN to organise to defend their members.

 

3.  Council assembly calls on cabinet to:

a.  Work with the Unfair Evictions Campaign led by Generation Rent, the New Economics Foundation, ACORN and the London Renters Union, including by publicising campaign events and activities as appropriate.

b.  Continue working to improve conditions for renters in Southwark by delivering a Southwark Renters Union and Southwark Gold Standard for rental properties.

c.  Work with Harriet Harman MP, Neil Coyle MP, and Helen Hayes MP to call for the abolition of section 21 in Parliament.

d.  Continue the work to prepare a robust business case about conditions of the private rented sector in Southwark so that the a borough wide licensing scheme can be implemented and calls on cabinet to consider proposals in 2019.

 

MOTION 5 – THIRD RUNWAY AT HEATHROW

 

(see page 32-33 of the main agenda)

 

The guillotine having fallen, the motion was put to the vote and declared to be carried.

 

Note: This motion will be referred as a recommendation to the cabinet for consideration.

 

1.  Council assembly notes:

 

a.  The recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report detailing the urgency of alleviating the extent and rapidity of man-made climate change.

b.  That aviation is a major worldwide contributor to man-made climate change[1].

c.  That the expansion of Heathrow airport by building a third runway is targeted at  securing Heathrow’s status as a hub for international connecting flights, rather than in response to demand from London residents. 

d.  That the planned third runway will mean more than 250,000 additional flights into Heathrow a year.[2]

 

2.  Council assembly is concerned that:

a.  More flights into Heathrow will mean an increase in noise which will have a negative impact on Southwark residents living under the Heathrow flight path.

b.  An increase in flights and service vehicles at Heathrow will also contribute to deteriorating air quality across London, which will also have a negative impact on Southwark residents.

 

3.  Council assembly therefore resolves:

a.  To formally note its support for the work of the boroughs of Hillingdon, Wandsworth, Richmond, Hammersmith and Fulham, and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in joining forces with the Mayor of London and environmental groups such as Greenpeace and Friends of the Earth to challenge the expansion of Heathrow Airport and the building of a third runway.

 

MOTION 6 – OPPOSING BUS CUTS

 

(see page 33-34 of the main agenda and page 13 of supplemental agenda no. 1)

 

The guillotine having fallen, Amendment F was put to the vote and declared carried.  

 

The motion was put to the vote and declared to be carried.

 

Note: This motion will be referred as a recommendation to the cabinet for consideration.

 

1.  Council assembly notes:

a.  The Transport for London (TfL) consultation launched on 28 September 2018 which proposed reductions in a number of bus routes across Southwark, following a fall in passenger numbers in central London. 

b.  That council assembly in July unanimouslypassed a motion opposing the reduction of the RV1 bus timetable from six services an hour to just three, and called on TfL to rethink these proposals.

c.  That the new TfL consultation now proposes scrapping the RV1 bus route altogether, and shortening the route of the 45, 48, 53, 171, 172 and 388 buses so that they no longer serve central London.

d.  That many Southwark residents use these buses as their primary form of transport, and that reducing or removing these services will have a significant and detrimental impact on them, making it harder to commute and travel for leisure.

e.  That the proposals would terminate a number of bus routes that currently end in central London at the Elephant and Castle, and in other cases make the Elephant the last significant modal interchange. This can only make the bus stops at the Elephant more congested and slow traffic there.

f.  That changes to bus routes would sever convenient direct links from the south of the borough; for example the 40 from Dulwich currently runs to Guy’s Hospital, London Bridge underground and train station and across the river to Fenchurch Street station.

g.  The Old Kent Road Area Action Plan, which will deliver 20,000 new homes, and 10,000 new jobs along the Old Kent Road. That this increase in the number of people travelling to, from and along the Old Kent Road area will result in a greater demand on public transport, especially buses, in the area.

h.  Despite these proposals, TfL continue to negotiate s106 payments from Old Kent Road developments to increase bus routes in the area.

i.  Southwark Council’s response to the consultation, which clearly outlines the negative consequences of these bus cuts.

 

2.  Council assembly believes:

a.  That there are detrimental impacts on equality arising from TfL’s proposals. Buses are a particularly important mode of travel for people on low incomes and are a more accessible form of public transport for people with disabilities. Asking people with disabilities to change bus routes more often, as TfL proposes, will have a disproportionately negative impact on their travelling experience.

b.  That the data that TfL is using to justify these changes is out of date in some cases, and therefore ignores recent increases in bus usage. For example, it is clear that the RV1 has seen an increase in usage since the road works along Tooley Street have been removed and its route has therefore become more reliable.

c.  That it is short-sighted for TfL to reduce the frequency and shorten the route of some of the main and busiest bus routes along the Old Kent Road, such as the 53, just a few years before a planned increase in population in the Old Kent Road area.

 

3.  Council assembly resolves to call on cabinet:

a.  To work with Caroline Pidgeon AM, Chair of the London Assembly’s Transport Committee and Florence Eshalomi, AM for Southwark and Lambeth and vice-chair of the London Assembly’s Transport Committee, to oppose these bus cuts.

b.  To meet with representatives from TfL following the consultation to ensure they understand that the impact of the cuts proposed in the service would be significant to our residents.

c.  To campaign publicly against these and any further bus cuts that will disadvantage Southwark’s residents.

d.  To work with other boroughs impacted by these cuts as part of this campaign.

 

MOTION 7 – OVERGROUND TICKET OFFICE CLOSURES

 

(see page 34-35 of the main agenda and page 14 of supplemental agenda no. 1)

 

The guillotine having fallen, Amendment G was put to the vote and declared carried.  

 

The motion was put to the vote and declared to be carried.

 

Note: This motion will be referred as a recommendation to the cabinet for consideration.

 

1.  Council assembly notes:

a.  The Arriva Rail London (ARL) and Transport for London (TfL) consultation on the proposed closure of ticket offices at 51 London Overground stations, which ran from 20 September 2018 to 11 October 2018.

b.  That two of the stations which would be affected by these closures are in Southwark: Rotherhithe and Surrey Quays.

c.  That these proposals have been opposed by the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) and Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association (TSSA).

d.  That there was an overwhelming response to the consultation on the closures, with 3,400 responses to an online questionnaire, 959 emails, 2,063 postcards, 31 written submissions, and a number of petitions.

e.  That a decision on the closure of the London Overground stations has been delayed as a result of the number of response to the consultation. 

f.  That in 2015, ticket offices across the London Underground network were closed by the former Conservative Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, despite widespread opposition from both rail unions and service users.

g.  That in 2016, the Labour Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, ordered a review of the London Underground ticket office closures.

h.  That the review, carried out by the independent watchdog London TravelWatch, found that these closures had caused ‘significant issues’ and that not enough steps were taken to mitigate the impact of the closures, and as a result the service did suffer.

 

2.  Council assembly believes:

a.  That the closure of London Overground ticket offices would, like the closure of London Underground ticket offices, have a significant and negative impact on station users and passengers.

b.  That elderly, disabled, and vulnerable residents who may need assistance with purchasing tickets will be disproportionately affected by the proposed closures.

c.  That all residents in Southwark using Rotherhithe and Surrey Quays stations deserve the best possible service.

 

3.  Council assembly calls on cabinet to:

a.  Write to Heidi Alexander, the Deputy Mayor for Transport, expressing concerns about the impact of the proposed ticket office closures.

b.  Ask Caroline Pidgeon AM, Chair of the London Assembly’s Transport Committee and Florence Eshalomi, AM for Southwark and Lambeth, and Deputy Chair of the London Assembly Transport Committee, to raise these proposed ticket office closures at a future meeting of the Transport Committee.

 

MOTION 8 – SOLIDARITY WITH THE WINDRUSH GENERATION

 

(see page 35-36 of the main agenda and page 15 - 17 of supplemental agenda no. 1)

 

The guillotine having fallen, Amendment H was put to the vote and declared carried.  

 

Amendment I was put to the vote and declared lost.

 

The motion was put to the vote and declared to be carried.

 

Note: This motion will be referred as a recommendation to the cabinet for consideration.

 

1.  Windrush has become a symbol of African-Caribbean migration to the UK following the British government’s invitation to workers from the Commonwealth countries to help reduce the British labour shortage and re-build the war damaged country.

 

2.  Council assembly pays tribute to Patrick Vernon OBE, former Hackney Labour councillor, for first raising this issue by starting the online petition for justice for Windrush.

 

3.  Council assembly celebrates Southwark’s diverse population. As of 2015, 48% of Southwark’s population identified as Black, Asian or from another ethnic minority. Around 6% of Southwark’s population is of Afro-Caribbean descent, and while there are no official records, it is believed that Southwark is home to hundreds, if not thousands of people who answered the call to move to the UK from Commonwealth countries that had not yet become independent from the UK.

 

4.  Council assembly welcomes:

a.  The contributions of the Windrush generation to our society and community in Southwark, such as that of Sam King, who served in the RAF before travelling on the Empire Windrush to the UK. He worked in the Royal Mail for 34 years, and in 1982 became a Labour councillor for Bellenden ward in Peckham. He later became the first black mayor of Southwark and was awarded an MBE in 1998.

b.  The contribution of black women such as Princess Ademola, daughter of the Alake of Abeokuta, the paramount chief in northern Nigeria, who worked at Guys Hospital.

c.  Southwark Labour’s manifesto commitment to continuing to make Southwark a borough where all migrants feel welcome, with families who have lived here for generations living alongside people who have newly arrived from every corner of the globe to make our borough their home.

 

5.  Council assembly condemns:

a.  The “Hostile Environment” policies initiated by Theresa May as Home Secretary of the coalition government, which have continued during her time as Prime Minister, which have deliberately made it harder for those who cannot prove their right to remain in the UK to access basic services, work, or take part in civic life. The “Hostile Environment” policies include a “deport first, appeal later” approach, which has led to people being wrongly deported.

 

6.  Council assembly notes:

a.  That as a result of the “Hostile Environment” polices, many of the Windrush generation were targeted by the Home Office and assumed to have entered the country illegally.

b.  That as a result of this, people from the Windrush generation, their families and descendants lost their jobs, homes, ability to access NHS treatment for free, were refused re-entry into the UK, threatened with deportation, and at least 63 people were wrongly deported.

c.  The work of organisations including the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants, BME (black and minority ethnic) Lawyers 4 Justice, the Runnymede Trust, Southwark’s three Labour MPs, and the All Parliamentary Group on Race who have raised the profile of this issue, directly assisted those who have been affected by it, and lobbied the Government for an immediate end to the “Hostile Environment” policies.

d.  The work of local groups such as Black Cultural Archives based in Brixton and Southwark Law Centre who have supported our residents to get their status confirmed and fought for financial compensation for jobs, homes and livelihoods lost.

 

7.  Council assembly believes:

a.  Southwark’s diverse society is a cause for celebration, not concern.

b.  The treatment of the Windrush generation and their descendants by this Conservative government and the previous Liberal Democrat/Conservative coalition government has been appalling, racist, and inexcusable, and must be condemned.

 

8.  Council assembly resolves to call on cabinet:

a.  To continue to work with Southwark’s three Labour MPs to assist those who have been targeted, criminalised, or refused access to services they should be entitled to.

b.  To continue to actively condemn and call for an immediate halt to all the government’s “Hostile Environment” policies.

c.  To call on the government to take actions to redress and compensate those who have been affected by the “Hostile Environment” and ensure that such a scandal does not take place again.

d.  To ensure through council policies that Southwark remains a welcoming place to live and work for people from all over the world.

e.  To review and ensure all council policies seek to reduce the impact of the “Hostile Environment”.

f.  To work together with other London Boroughs to ensure a joined-up approach to mitigating and eradicating this scandal.

 

MOTION 9 – SUSTAINABLE PUBLIC HEALTH FUNDING

 

(see page 37 of the main agenda)

 

The guillotine having fallen, the motion was put to the vote and declared to be carried.

 

Note: This motion will be referred as a recommendation to the cabinet for consideration.

 

1.  Council assembly notes:

a.  That the public health grant funds vital services and functions that prevent ill health and contribute to the future sustainability of the NHS.

b.  That local authorities like Southwark are responsible for delivering most of these services, but their ability to do so is compromised by public health grant reductions and the broader funding climate.

c.  That in 2018/19 and 2019/20 every local authority will have less to spend on public health than the year before, and by 2020/21 the Government is looking to phase out the Public Health Grant entirely, meaning that public health will only be funded through business rate retention.

d.  That areas with high levels of deprivation often suffer the worst health outcomes, and so need higher levels of funding in order to tackle the greater public health challenges in the area.

e.  That around four in ten cancers are preventable, largely through avoidable risk factors, such as stopping smoking, keeping a healthy weight and cutting back on alcohol. Smoking accounts for 80,000 early deaths every year and remains the largest preventable cause of cancer in the world. Smoking-related ill health costs local authorities £760 million every year in social care costs. Additionally, obesity and alcohol account for 30,000 and 7,000 early deaths each year respectively. All three increase the risk of: cancer, diabetes, lung and heart conditions, poor mental health and create a subsequent burden on health and social care.

f.  Supporting people to stop smoking, drinking excessively, and eating unhealthily falls within the remit of public health, but if there is insufficient funding, it becomes harder for public health services to support people to live healthier lives.

 

2.  Council assembly believes:

a.  That the impact of cuts to public health on our communities cannot and should not be ignored.

b.  That unless we restore public health funding, our health and care system will remain locked in a ‘treatment’ approach, which is neither economically viable nor protects the health of Southwark residents.

c.  That it is vital that Southwark and other local authorities delivering public health services have enough funding to provide the services that our residents need.

 

3.  Council assembly resolves to call on cabinet to:

a.  Support Cancer Research UK’s call for increased and sustainable public health funding.

b.  Continue to lobby the Government to deliver increased investment in public health and support a sustainable health and social care system by taking a ‘prevention first’ approach.

c.  Continue to support and fund public health initiatives to the best of the council’s abilities which will deliver the best outcomes for our residents, and prevent ill-health, reduce inequalities, and support a health and care social system that is fit for the future.



[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_aviation#Total_climate_effects

[2] https://www.heathrowexpansion.com/the-expansion-plan/facts-and-figures/


28/11/2018 - Members' question time ref: 6650    Information Only

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

(See pages 28-38 of the main agenda and the additional papers circulated at the meeting)

 

There was one late question to the leader from Councillor Anood Al-Samerai, the written response to which was circulated on yellow paper at the meeting.  There was one supplemental question.

 

There were 40 members’ questions, the written responses to which were circulated on yellow paper at the meeting.  There were 14 supplemental questions.


28/11/2018 - Appointment of Independent Person ref: 6658    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018


28/11/2018 - Appointment of Independent Person ref: 6656    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

(see pages 166 - 168 of the main agenda and 1-3 of the closed agenda)

 

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That the appointment of the two individuals as independent persons as outlined in the closed report, subject to recommendation 2 of the report, be approved.

 

2.  That the commencement date of each term of office be confirmed by the director of law and democracy. 

 

3.  That the re-appointment of the current independent person, named in the closed report, for a further period be approved.


28/11/2018 - The Gambling Act 2005 - Statement of Gambling Licensing Policy 2019-2022 ref: 6655    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

(see pages 97 - 165 of the main agenda)

 

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That the publication of the Southwark Statement of Gambling Licensing Policy for 2019-2022 (Appendix A of the report) from 31 January 2019 be agreed.


28/11/2018 - Deputations ref: 6649    Information Only

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

As part of the programme motion the meeting agreed to hear deputations from:

 

Southwark Group of Tenants Organisations

 

The group’s representative spoke to the meeting for five minutes and thereafter asked a question of Councillor Stephanie Cryan, the cabinet member for housing management and modernisation.

 

Councillors Graham Neale, Victoria Olisa and Bill Williams asked questions of the deputation.

 

A joint deputation from local residents on A People's Vote on Brexit / South Southwark for Europe

 

The group’s representatives spoke to the meeting for five minutes and thereafter asked a question of Councillor Victoria Mills, the cabinet member for finance, performance and Brexit.

 

Councillors Karl Eastham, Humaira Ali, Paul Fleming and Leo Pollak asked questions of the deputation.

 

A joint deputation from local residents on Alice in Winterland / Local residents on Metropolitan Open Land

 

The group’s representatives spoke to the meeting for five minutes and thereafter asked a question of Councillor Rebecca Lury, the deputy leader and cabinet member for culture, leisure, equalities and communities.

 

Councillors Anood Al-Samerai, Bill Williams and Andy Simmons asked questions of the deputation.


28/11/2018 - Motion on the theme ref: 6648    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

The cabinet member for children, schools and adult care, Councillor Jasmine Ali, presented the motion on the themed debate.

 

Councillor Dan Whitehead, the majority opposition group spokesperson, responded to the cabinet member's motion and proposed Amendment A.

 

Following debate (Councillors Maggie Browning, Anood Al-Samerai, James McAsh, Cleo Soanes, William Houngbo, Peter John, Helen Dennis, Adele Morris, Kieron Williams, Alice Macdonald), the cabinet member for adult care and financial inclusion, Councillor Jasmine Ali, responded to the debate.

 

Amendment A was put to the vote and declared to be Lost.

 

The motion was put to the vote and declared to be Carried.

 

RESOLVED:

 

1.  Council assembly notes:

 

a.  Under this Labour administration, Southwark is delivering the best possible start in life for our children. Ofsted has rated our children’s services good and our adoption services are outstanding. Southwark’s Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Services are examples of excellence where other local authorities are turning to Southwark for guidance on their SEND services. Our Youth Offending Service (YOS) was praised by Ofsted as it carries out its essential work supporting young people who have or at risk of offending.  This Labour administration has protected funding for YOS and will continue to do so.

b.  No child should be left behind, and so welcomes Southwark’s continued efforts to improve education at every stage.  From Early Years to Key Stage 5, Southwark exceeds national averages for results - including attainment of pupils with special educational needs. 

c.  Nine out of 10 schools in Southwark are rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, showing that our schools are great places for our young people to learn and develop. Council assembly further notes the huge progress our schools have made in the last eight years, when less than two thirds were Good or Outstanding.

d.  That this administration has made it easier for children to go to the local school of their choice and get the best possible start in life. Council assembly further notes the enormous progress from the previous administration’s schools placement crisis where 500 children were not being offered a place at any of their preferred schools. Council assembly welcomes that there are now an additional 4,425 primary school places since 2009. This means almost 90% now get their first choice of primary school, and 64% get their first choice of secondary school.

e.  The council’s commitment that children should lead happy, healthy and full lives.  It welcomes measures such as the introduction of Free Swim and Gyms and Free Healthy School Meals to help tackle childhood obesity and improve standards. Council assembly further welcomes the council’s programme of refurbishing and improving play areas across the borough, so that every child has access to a top quality place to play in their neighbourhood.

f.  Southwark is a great place to grow up.

 

2.  Council Assembly further notes:

 

a.  After eight years of cuts and austerity from Conservative and Liberal Democrat governments, not all families are thriving. Council assembly recognises that cuts to council budgets, attacks on welfare and benefits, a national crisis in care, a housing crisis and spiralling youth violence have all impacted on young people in the borough. Investigations where a child is believed to be at risk of significant harm have more than doubled.

b.  The commitment from this administration to stand alongside our communities in the face of government attacks and to do what it can to support children and young people. 

 

3.  Council assembly welcomes the council’s commitment to a fairer future for all and commitment that everyone has the best start in life with no one left behind.

 

4.  Council assembly calls on cabinet:

 

a.  To launch a Keeping Families Strong strategy

  i.  To endorse, support and facilitate the work between the council and local communities, and to make sure parents are well supported as part of our Children and Families offer.

  ii.  To support the approach of the cabinet member for children, schools and adults to lead active engagement with parents across Southwark to make sure that the strategy targets the right support where it is needed.

 

b.  To protect existing and develop new early years services

  i.  To protect the funding of its 16 children’s centres and start to roll out free healthy meals in our nursery schools from January 2019.

  ii.  To help parents spread the cost of childcare over a longer period by setting up an affordable loan scheme.

 

c.  To improve education for all

  i.  To welcome the increase in the number of Southwark schools rated either Good or Outstanding, which has risen to 91%, from 64% in 2010, and continue to raise standards in schools, ensuring that parents and pupils benefit from choice based on transparency with up to date and accessible information on schools.

  ii.  To open the Passmore Centre to provide training and apprenticeships for young people.

  iii.  To continue to support the work of the Construction Skills Centre to help our young people get the education and training they need to get the high skilled construction jobs being created in our borough.

 

d.  To guarantee an education place or an apprenticeship for all care leavers

  i.  To work across the council, with Catch22, other partners and local education and businesses to make sure that the 474 children in care and 440 care leavers the council is a corporate parent to, have every opportunity to fulfil their potential.

  ii.  To launch a local Care Covenant to make sure children leaving care get access to job opportunities in this borough and guarantee an education place or an apprenticeship for every care leaver.

 

e.  To improve adoption

  i.  To be the lead authority in the Regional Adoption Agency across South London, providing the best start for children in care in Southwark and to work towards positive permanence services for all children including adolescents.

 

f.  To continue to improve the health and wellbeing of our young people

  i.  To help our children and young people stay fit and active by making free swim and gym more flexible and making swimming lessons  free for all residents, so our young people can get the most out of Southwark’s fantastic leisure centres.

  ii.  To introduce a ‘daily mile’ in all our primary schools so children have the opportunity to walk or run a mile every day.

  iii.  To close roads around schools at drop off and collection time so that it is safer and healthier to walk or cycle to school.

 

g.  To revolutionise our mental health services for children and young people

  i.  To reject the National Health Service’s disgracefully low target to meet just 35% of children and young people’s mental health needs.

  ii.  To endorse a new approach and work towards meeting 100% of children and young people’s mental health needs.

  iii.  To set up a children’s mental health reference group made up of the key stakeholders from the NHS, the council, the third sector and user groups to raise aspiration by actively working to meet 100% of children and young people’s mental health needs.

  iv.  To defend Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) from cuts, seek match funding from partners, make applications for innovation funding, and seek new approaches to revolutionise our CAMHS and to be a beacon across London of how to support children and families.

 

h.  To provide exciting opportunities for young people

  i.  To ensure that 500 young people from low income backgrounds get paid internships with London’s best employers.

  ii.  To work with our communities to find solutions that help young people stay away from knives and youth violence.

  iii.  To re-open the Blue Youth Club and Community Centre so as to provide young people with a welcoming, positive space they can use and visit.

  iv.  To continue the work of the last administration, which created nearly 2,000 apprenticeships, and create 2,500 more apprenticeships, many of which will benefit young people.


28/11/2018 - Community Evidence ref: 6646    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

The meeting received submissions from the following:

 

David Monaghan

 

He spoke to the meeting for five minutes.

 

Chris Burns

 

He spoke to the meeting for five minutes.

 

Councillor Jasmine Ali, cabinet member for children, schools and adult care responded to the community evidence.


Two members asked questions.


28/11/2018 - Petitions ref: 6644    Information Only

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

No petitions were received.


28/11/2018 - Announcements from the mayor, members of the cabinet or chief executive ref: 6640    Information Only

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

Councillor Peter John, leader of the council, thanked Deborah Collins, strategic director for environment and leisure, for her service to the council, and wished her the best for her future as chief operating officer of Cardiff University.

 

Councillor Evelyn Akoto, cabinet member for community safety and public health, announced the creation of the Positive Futures Fund to support voluntary and community sector organisations and groups working with disadvantaged young people within Southwark.

 

An announcement was made about the death of former councillor Jeff Williams.  Councillor Nick Dolezal gave tribute.


28/11/2018 - Changes to Community Council Boundaries November 2018 ref: 6654    Information Only

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

(see pages 92 - 96 of the main agenda)

 

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That it be agreed to maintain the interim boundaries for community councils until March 2019, in order to support further options and consultation for potential new community council arrangements.


28/11/2018 - Treasury Management - Mid-year Update 2018/19 ref: 6653    Information Only

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

(see pages 81 - 91 of the main agenda)

 

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That the 2018-19 mid-year treasury management update report be noted and that:

 

·  all treasury management activity was undertaken in compliance with the approved treasury management strategy and with the council’s prudential indicators, as Appendix A of the report.

·  the balance remaining on all external debt as at 30 September 2018 was £588m.

·  in the six months to 30 September 2018 the average investment balance was £116m and the balance of investments at 30 September 2018 stood at £147m. 

·  the debt cap for HRA was removed with immediate effect from 29 October 2018. 


28/11/2018 - Amendments ref: 6657    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Council Assembly

Made at meeting: 28/11/2018 - Council Assembly

Decision published: 18/12/2018

Effective from: 28/11/2018

Decision:

Amendments are set out in supplemental agenda no. 1.


11/12/2018 - Neighbourhood Planning - Application for the re-designation of the South Bank & Waterloo Neighbourhood Forum ref: 6677    Recommendations Approved

That the Cabinet Member for Growth, Development and Planning:

 

1.  Notes the application from the South Bank and Waterloo Neighbours (SoWN), to renew its neighbourhood forum status that is due to expire April 2019.

 

2.  Agrees to publicise the application for Neighbourhood forum renewal from the SoWN for consultation in accordance with regulation 9 of the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012 and the council’s neighbourhood planning decision making report of 6 March 2015.

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Growth, Development and Planning

Decision published: 13/12/2018

Effective from: 21/12/2018

Decision:

1.  That the application from the South Bank and Waterloo Neighbours (SoWN), to renew its Neighbourhood Forum status that is due to expire April 2019 be noted.

 

2.  That it be agreed to publicise the application for Neighbourhood Forum renewal from the SoWN for consultation in accordance with regulation 9 of the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012 and the council’s Neighbourhood Planning Decision Making report of 6 March 2015.

 

Wards affected: Borough & Bankside; St George's;


13/12/2018 - The High Street Challenge Round 7 Grant Awards ref: 6678    Recommendations Approved

To approve the award of grants under the High Street Challenge Round 7

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Jobs, Skills and Innovation

Decision published: 13/12/2018

Effective from: 21/12/2018

Decision:

1.  That £52,000 of grant funding  be allocated from The High Street Challenge for Round 7 of this funding. The projects recommended for award are set out in Appendix 1 of the report.

 

2.  That the applicants listed in Appendix 2 of the report, who are being recommended for support from council officers in order to develop their applications further be noted. An additional report for funding considerations with regards to these projects will be presented once the development is complete.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Eleanor Kelly


11/12/2018 - Introducing a Gold Standard to the Private Rented Sector ref: 6667    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That officers be instructed to consult on the adoption of a Gold Standard and pilot an associated award scheme for the private rented sector.

 

2.  That the criteria to be consulted on in order for a dwelling to meet the Gold Standard as shown in Appendix 1 of the report be agreed.

 

3.  That the importance of monitoring and managing the scheme be noted and that officers be instructed to work closely with tenants during the period of consultation in setting up and supporting a Southwark Renters Union that will play an important part in doing this.

Wards affected: (All Wards);


11/12/2018 - Annual Workforce Report ref: 6666    Recommendations Approved

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

That the workforce report attached as Appendix 1 of the report be noted and that it also be noted this report:

 

1.  Demonstrates that the council continues to reflect the diversity of the borough in the makeup of its workforce and the levels of change that have taken place have not impacted negatively on the diversity of the workforce despite the level of savings that have been made due to reductions in central government funding.

 

2.  Suggests a picture of a productive and well motivated staff with low levels of sickness, low levels of staff complaints and good rates of staff retention.

 

3.  Suggests that the council is an attractive employer given the high numbers of applications that the council receives.

 

4.  Reinforces our intention to refresh our workforce strategy to take account of our new Investors in People Gold status and highlights areas for us to focus our workforce equality plan on, with certain areas benefiting from new commitments and associated targets, for example career development and in-work progression with a particular focus on under-represented groups.

Wards affected: (All Wards);


11/12/2018 - Establishment of the Positive Futures Fund ref: 6664    For Determination

Creation of the Positive Future funding stream

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 06/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That the establishment of the positive futures fund that aims to support community organisations to provide inspiring opportunities for young people that divert them away from crime be approved.

 

2.  That officers be instructed to develop the detailed criteria and funding processes for the scheme with the intention that the implementation of funded projects commences from April 2019.

 

3.  That officers ensure that £500,000 be included in the budget for the positive futures fund.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Michael Scorer


11/12/2018 - Southwark Great Estates Programme - Paper 1 - Agreeing the Vision and Approach ref: 6665    For Determination

To agree the principles of the Great Estates Guarantee

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That Southwark’s vision and approach for the Great Estates Programme as set out in Appendix 1 of the report be agreed, including the principal approach to ‘expand and enrich’ our council estates, while restating the terms and circumstances for any redevelopment proposal.

 

2.  That consultation be undertaken with residents to inform the development of the resident-centred estate improvement plans process and the Great Estate guarantee and commitments.

 

3.  That the process be started of drawing up terms of reference and establishing a Great Estates programme advisory group, made up of local residents and key stakeholders who have knowledge of estate management and regeneration.

 

4.  That officers be instructed to produce further cabinet reports in 2019 to feedback the results of the consultation; develop and launch the Great Estates guide detailing case studies and opportunities from across the borough of initiatives that improve the shared living environment of Southwark estates and bring estate communities together; agree the estate improvement plan process and pilot schemes; and a further report detailing the Great Estate guarantee and commitments.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Michael Scorer


11/12/2018 - Allocation of Local Community Infrastructure Levy funding ref: 6670    Recommendations Approved

Report seeking the release of Local Community Infrastructure Levy funding

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That the commitment to spending the funds collected to end of financial year 2017-18 (as detailed in paragraph 37 of the report) as the 25% neighbourhood portion of the community infrastructure levy within each community council area in which it was collected be agreed and that this funding be committed on the basis of the cabinet decision made in March 2015.

 

2.  That the submission from each community council be noted and that officers be instructed to undertake further consultation with the community councils. 

 

3.  That funding be released and allocated to the priority projects put forward by the community councils for projects within the existing council capital programme as listed in Appendix 1 of the report.

 

4.  That officers be instructed to develop projects that are currently on the council plan but not yet included on the capital programme and report to cabinet in April 2019.

 

5.  That it be recognised that the current system of community infrastructure project lists should be improved in order to make it more transparent and that officers be instructed to work with the community councils to develop community investment plans for each area to prioritise the allocation of funding collected 2018-19 and to allocate unspent CIL generated pre-2017-18.

 

6.  That officers report back to cabinet in April 2019 setting out the proposed process for the consultation and implementation of community investment plans.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Kevin Fenton


11/12/2018 - Adopt London South, Regional Adoption Agency ref: 6662    For Determination

To agree for Southwark to host the Adopt London South Regional Adoption Agency, a body delivering the adoption service statutory duties of 10 South London local authorities

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That Southwark enter into regional adoption arrangements as part of Adopt London South with ten participating authorities identified in the report.

 

2.  That it be agreed that Southwark is the host for Adopt London South. This means Southwark hosts staff and resources from up to nine other boroughs in South London to deliver a regional adoption agency for South and South West London

 

3.  That the authority to make more detailed decisions around the implementation of this proposal including signing off the inter-authority agreement between Southwark and the other boroughs involved in Adopt London South and the finalisation of governance arrangements be delegated to the strategic director for children’s and adults’ services.

 

4.  That it be noted that the governance arrangements will operate by the other local authorities in Adopt South London delegating adoption functions to the council and that the leader of the council will need to formally accept the delegation of the relevant functions once these have been delegated by the other councils. 

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: David Quirke-Thornton


11/12/2018 - Canada Water Social Regeneration Charter ref: 6672    Information Only

To report on the work to complete a social regeneration charter for Canada Water as called for by cabinet on 13 March 2018

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

Cabinet reaffirmed their commitment to the living wage element of the council plan and its inclusion in this charter.

 

RESOLVED:

 

Decisions of the Cabinet:

 

1.  That the Canada Water Social Regeneration Charter [CWSRC] attached as Appendix 1 to the report which includes the following five Canada Water Place Action Plan [CWPAP] emerging priorities be agreed:

 

·  Mental health - outreach and raising awareness

·  Projects for young people – ‘things to do’, tackling social isolation

·  Estate programmes – ensuring the impact of regeneration reaches all

·  Employment and Skills – training, apprenticeships, jobs for local people

·  Supporting enterprise – capacity building for local traders.

 

2.  That the effective update and review of the Canada Water Social Regeneration Charter and Canada Water Place Action Plan be facilitated.

 

Decision of the Leader of the Council

 

3.  That that the future reviews and update be delegated to the cabinet member for social regeneration, great estates and new council homes.

Wards affected: Rotherhithe; Surrey Docks;

Lead officer: Kevin Fenton


11/12/2018 - Capital Letters: Procurement of Accommodation for Homeless Households ref: 6676    For Determination

To approve Southwark Council’s membership of ‘Capital Letters’, a new company established by London Boroughs to procure and manage accommodation for homeless households.

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

The report had not been circulated five clear days in advance of the meeting. The chair agreed to accept the report as urgent as boroughs were required to confirm whether they intend to participate in ‘Capital Letters’ by the end of December 2018.

 

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That Southwark Council’s membership of ‘Capital Letters’, a new company established by a number of London boroughs to procure and to manage accommodation for homeless households be approved.

 

2.  That it be noted that the company is to be financed at least initially by support grant from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) for a period to be confirmed.

 

3.  That it be noted there are two separate levels of membership open to boroughs; ‘A Membership’ or ‘B Membership’ (the difference is explained further in paragraphs 19 – 27 of the report), and that the council’s involvement as an ‘A’ member be approved.

 

4.  That the council’s obligations as an ‘A’ Member be noted as follows:

 

·  To transfer a proportion of the council’s procurement and housing management activities to the company and

·  To transfer sufficient resources to the company to fulfil these activities. The majority of participating boroughs intend to meet this obligation through the secondment of existing posts.

 

5.  That the formal incorporation by the council into the company be agreed by the strategic director for finance and governance in consultation with the strategic director for housing and modernisation and the cabinet member for housing and modernisation.

 

6.  That the decision on a separate gateway 1 procurement strategy be delegated to the strategic director in consultation with the lead cabinet member. This gateway report would formally authorise the transfer of some procurement activities from the council to ‘Capital Letters’. (This delegation will be subject to a notice of variation to the executive scheme of delegation from the leader).

 

7.  That it be noted that the gateway report will refer to a small proportion of the council’s total procurement activity, at least during the company’s first year of operation.

 

8.  That it be noted that the council’s participation in the scheme is dependent on the secondment of officers from the housing and modernisation department, or the payment of staff in kind, where this is not covered by grant funding and that any decision for officers to undertake a secondment is voluntary.

 

9.  That it be noted that an evaluation report will be presented to cabinet within the first 12 months of operation, giving cabinet the opportunity to consider the council’s continued level of involvement in ‘Capital Letters’.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Michael Scorer


11/12/2018 - Gateway 1 - Procurement Strategy Approval for Southwark Highways Works Contracts ref: 6669    For Determination

To approve the procurement strategy

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

That the procurement strategy outlined in the report for two separate contracts be approved:

 

Works Contract

·  Southwark Highways Works Contracts in two lots commencing 1 July 2020 for an initial duration of five years and nine months, with an option for the council to extend for up to two further years.

 

o  Lot A – Maintenance (for small scale reactive repairs) at an estimated maximum total cost of £15.9m (1 supplier)

o  Lot B – Projects (for planned renewal / improvement projects) at an estimated maximum total cost of £55.4m (1 supplier).

 

Services Contract

·  Southwark Highways Professional Services Contract consisting of three lots, commencing 1 January 2021 for an initial duration of five years and three months, with an option for the council to extend for up to two further years.

 

o  Lot A - Structures Inspections and Design at an estimated maximum total cost of £7.3m

o  Lot B - Highway Design and Management at an estimated maximum total cost of £11.6m

o  Lot C - Drainage and SUDS (Sustainable Drainage System) Design and Management at an estimated maximum total cost of £3.6m.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Deborah Collins


11/12/2018 - Southwark Schools Standards Report 2017-18 ref: 6661    Information Only

Update on schools in the borough

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

The head teachers of the following schools also presented their comments, feedback and answered questions for cabinet:Simon Eccles,  SPAR (special school), Simon Assig,  Mayflower Federation (primary school) and Felicity Corcoran, St. Michael’s (secondary school).

 

RESOLVED:

 

That the ‘Best start in life - Southwark school standards report 2017-18’ attached at Appendix 1 of the report be noted.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: David Quirke-Thornton


11/12/2018 - New Depot ref: 6668    For Determination

To note progress to date on the creation of a new, fit for purpose depot and agree next steps

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

Decisions of the Cabinet

 

1.  That the preparatory work done to date on providing a new depot for the council’s in house services be noted and the proposal to develop this as set out in paragraphs 14, and 16-20 of the report be approved in principle.

 

2.  That the estimated cost and timing of the proposal be noted and the inclusion of this sum in the capital programme as set out in paragraph 24 of the report be approved.

 

3.  That officers be instructed to report back to cabinet for approval of the project once the legal and financial terms have been negotiated and before the planning application is submitted.

 

Decision of the Leader of the Council

 

4.  That the authority for the approval of the revised business case and a detailed project initiation document setting out the governance, workstreams and timing of this project be delegated to the cabinet member for finance, performance and Brexit, in consultation with the cabinet member for environment, transport management and air quality.

Wards affected: Old Kent Road;

Lead officer: Deborah Collins


11/12/2018 - Southwark Regeneration in Partnership Programme - Lot A Sites Appropriation ref: 6671    For Determination

Approves the appropriation of the Lot A sites for planning purposes to facilitate the carrying out of development proposals.

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That the area of council-owned land edged red on the plans at Appendix 1 of the report and Appendix 2, and known as 169-179 Manor Place, the former Council Office, Stopford Road, SE17 and Kennington Workshops 42 Braganza Street SE17 be confirmed as no longer required for the purposes for which they are currently held, and that the appropriation of the land for planning purposes to facilitate the development proposals for the area in accordance with section 226 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and section 122(1) of the Local Government Act 1972 be approved.

 

2.  That once the land is appropriated for planning purposes under the statutory provisions detailed above, the completed housing stock should be appropriated to the housing revenue account. 

Wards affected: Newington; North Bermondsey; South Bermondsey;

Lead officer: Kevin Fenton


11/12/2018 - Gateway 1 - Procurement Strategy Approval: Facilities Management (FM) Contract for the Council's Operational Estate ref: 6663    For Determination

Procurement Strategy Approval

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That the procurement strategy outlined in the report, and as detailed in paragraphs 2 – 5 below be approved.

 

2.  That it be approved to bring the CFM (corporate facilities management) services outlined in paragraph 36 of the report in-house on expiry of the current facilities management (FM) contracts in June 2020, with an estimated annual cost of £1m.

 

3.  That a further competition be undertaken via the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) framework for Hard FM Services (hard FM), which includes small works and capital investment projects, Ref: RM3830 Facilities Management Marketplace (Lot 1b – Total Contract Value £7m - £50m) at an estimated annual cost of £3.6m for hard FM and up to £3.5m for the small works and capital investment projects, for a period of five years with the potential to extend up to a further two years (in increments at the council’s discretion), making an estimated maximum total contract value of £49.8m, with an estimated start date of June 2020.

 

4.  That the award of small works and capital investment projects be directed in line with the council’s contract standing orders, to exempt CFM from obtaining five tenders from the works approved list in respect of project related works procured through this contract in accordance with the methodology specified below;

 

·  all project related works up to £500k will be procured through this contract where the contractor is adequately performing their main contract work, subject to CFM undertaking a pre-tender estimate and the contractor demonstrating value for money against this benchmark

·  for project related works up to £500k, where the contractor is not a specialist in the area, is not adequately performing the main contract or cannot prove value for money, then tendered from the approved list an open market exercise.

 

5.  That a separate further competition be undertaken, to appoint a second supplier for Soft FM Services (soft FM) Ref: RM3830 Facilities Management Marketplace (Lot 1b – Total Contract Value £7m - £50m) at an estimated annual cost of £5.2m for a period of five years with the potential to extend up to a further two years (in increments at the council’s discretion), making an estimated total contract value of £36.2m, with an estimated start date of June 2020.

 

6.  That it be noted that there is no additional cost to use this framework agreement.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Michael Scorer


11/12/2018 - Housing Revenue Account - Indicative Rent Setting and Budget Report 2019-20 ref: 6660    Recommendations Approved

To note the draft HRA budget for 2019-20 and rent setting

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That a rent decrease of 1.0% for all directly and tenant managed (TMO) housing stock within the housing revenue account (HRA) (including estate voids, sheltered and hostels), with effect from 1 April 2019 be noted on a provisional basis. This is in accordance with the provisions of the Welfare Reform and Work Act 2016.

 

2.  That with regard to other HRA-wide charges, the changes to tenant service charges, comprising estate cleaning, grounds maintenance, communal lighting and door entry maintenance as set out in paragraphs 30 – 31 of the report with effect from 1 April 2019 be noted on a provisional basis.

 

3.  That increases in charges for garages and other non-residential facilities as set out in paragraphs 32 – 33 of the report with effect from 1 April 2019 be noted on a provisional basis.

 

4.  That no increase to district heating and hot water charges as set out in paragraph 34 of the report with effect from 1 April 2019 be noted on a provisional basis.

 

5.  That a commitment to ensure savings proposals are primarily based on efficiencies be reaffirmed, and that where staffing reductions form part of any savings proposal, that due consultation and process be followed with trade unions.

 

6.  That officers be instructed to provide a final report on rent setting and the housing revenue account (HRA) budget for 2019-20 after due consultation processes with residents have been followed for consideration at the cabinet meeting on 22 January 2019.

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Duncan Whitfield


11/12/2018 - The Council Tax Base 2019-20 ref: 6659    Information Only

To set the council tax base and note that the NNDR base will be signed off by the s.151 officer

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That the schedule of discounts and exemptions in paragraph 13 of the report, which remains unchanged, with an exception for long-term empty dwellings effective from 1 April 2019-20 onwards be approved.

 

2.  That it be noted that the council tax reduction scheme (CTRS) for both working and pensionable age claimants shall remain unchanged in 2019-20.

 

3.  That the council tax base for 2019-20 be set at 103,662 (100,884 in 2018-19) band D equivalent dwellings.

 

4.  That it be agreed that the assumed council tax collection level should remain at 97.20% for 2019-20 (97.20% in 2018-19) noting the risks outlined in paragraphs 26, 27 and 28 of the report.

 

5.  That it be noted that the council tax base for 2019-20 for St. Mary Newington parish is set at 12,129 (11,936 in 2018-19) band D equivalent dwellings.

 

6.  That it be noted that the council tax base for 2019-20 for St. Saviour’s parish is set at 1,259 (1,267 in 2018-19) band D equivalent dwellings.

 

7.  That it be noted that:

 

·  any minor and consequential amendments to the CTRS written policy are to remain delegated to the strategic director of finance and governance, in consultation with the monitoring officer.

 

·  no changes were made to the council tax reduction scheme under the council’s section 151 officer’s (strategic director of finance and governance) authority during 2018-19 for 2019-20.

 

8.  That it be noted that, as for 2018-19, the national non-domestic rates (NNDR1) return for 2019-20 showing the national non-domestic rates base will be signed off by the strategic director of finance and governance.

 

9.  That the proposed extension of the current council tax section 13a policy covering discretionary relief* (refer to paragraph 18 of the report) be noted:

 

·  to continue the council tax discretionary relief (0% to 100%) for young people leaving Southwark council's care aged 18 to 24 years, for the period 1 April 2019 to 31 March 2020 (a second year for this scheme).

 

·  to continue foster carers discretionary relief (0% to 100%), for the period 1 April 2019 to 31 March 2020. 

 

(*Southwark Council Tax Section 13a (1)(c) policy for 2019-20)

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Duncan Whitfield


11/12/2018 - Policy and Resources Strategy 2019-20 ref: 6675    Information Only

To note the council’s deliberations for the 2019-20 general fund revenue budget and agree the next step in the budgeting process and the 2019-20 fees and charges

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Made at meeting: 11/12/2018 - Cabinet

Decision published: 12/12/2018

Effective from: 20/12/2018

Decision:

This report had not been circulated five clear days in advance of the meeting. The chair agreed to accept the report as urgent as the council were committed to publishing budget proposals at the earliest possible opportunity to ensure they were available to the public for comments and questions. Presenting the report to cabinet on 12 December 2018 gives the opportunity for debate prior to presentation of budget figures to cabinet on 22 January 2019. Also under the council’s constitution, there is a requirement for the overview and scrutiny committee to review and challenge budget proposals and this is due to take place on 28 January 2019.

 

RESOLVED:

 

1.  That it be noted that the government’s budget statement was presented by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 29 October 2018, key headlines being set out in the report (paragraphs 26 – 27 of the report).

 

2.  That it be noted that the provisional local government finance settlement, due to be announced on 6 December 2018, has been delayed until after the Brexit vote on Tuesday 11 December (paragraphs 28 – 29 of the report).

 

3.  That it be noted, as reported to cabinet in September 2018 and recognising continued uncertainty for local government funding, that the intention remains for the council to prepare a balanced one-year 2019-20 budget for approval by cabinet in advance of council assembly in February 2019 (paragraph 19 of the report).

 

4.  That the current budget options proposed to help achieve a balanced budget 2019-20 (Appendices C to F of the report) be noted.

 

5.  That the budget proposals for 2019-20 contained within the report be noted, which include:

 

·  Estimated general grant resources likely to be available arising from the provisional settlement (Appendix A of the report), a reduction of £8.647m from 2018-19

·  Improved Better Care Fund resources totalling £15.752m, an increase of £3.168m from 2018-19

·  Additional one-off social care grants of circa £4.254m announced in the Autumn 2018 budget

·  Retained business rates growth of £25.0m (paragraph 41 to 44), an increase of £3.250m over 2018-19 arising from proceeds generated by continued regeneration in the borough; plus an estimated surplus brought forward of £1.158m

·  Estimated council tax revenue of £107.322m, including £2.476m additional income arising from growth in the tax base and £0.4m from increased premium on long-term empty properties; an estimated collection fund surplus of £3.500m

·  Planned contingency to be maintained at £4m to mitigate underlying budget risks. (Paragraph 74 of the report).

 

6.  That it be noted that the following savings, commitments and pay and price pressures have been proposed to help ensure the delivery of a balanced budget in 2019-20 (Appendices C – F of the report):

 

·  Efficiency savings of £14.005m

·  Income generation of £3.050m

·  Savings impacting on services of £0.900m

·  Commitments and growth of £14.236m

·  Pay Award and contractual inflation of £8.450m

·  Debt financing costs of £3.809m.

 

7.  That it be noted that, in order to ensure that the base budget is on a secure financial footing a number of commitments are proposed for 2019-20 totalling £14.236m, including:

 

·  £8.072m for children’s and adult’s services funded principally from the growth in the Improved Better Care Fund (£3.168m) and additional social care funding (4.254m)

·  A net increase of £2.7m to further support spending pressures on Temporary Accommodation and £0.7m No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF).

 

8.  That the ongoing negotiations regarding the continuation of the London Business Rates Pool arrangement into 2019-20 (paragraphs 45 48 of the report) be noted and that:

 

·  Authority be delegated to the strategic director of finance and governance in consultation with the cabinet member for finance, performance and Brexit to agree the operational details of the pooling arrangements with the participating authorities

 

·  Authority be delegated to the strategic director of finance and governance, in consultation with the director of law and democracy, to make any amendments as may be required by the Secretary of State, and to enter into the final Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the council.

 

9.  That the updated budget gap for 2019-20 of £3.853m be noted and that it also be noted that this budget gap would reduce by £3.2m should the council decide to increase council tax by 2.99%, in line with the government threshold. Officers will complete further work to present a fully balanced budget position for cabinet on 22 January 2019.

 

10.  That the departmental narratives (Appendix B of the report) and the equality analysis provided for the budget proposals be noted.

 

11.  That the consultation that took place prior to agreeing the indicative budget options for 2017-18 and 2018-19 be noted and that officers be instructed to undertake further consultation for new budget options where necessary or appropriate (paragraphs 75 – 76 of the report).

 

12.  That it be noted that the report to cabinet on 22 January 2019 will be considered by overview and scrutiny committee on 28 January 2019 and that any recommendations arising will be incorporated into the final report to cabinet on 5 February 2019 for recommendation to council assembly on 27 February 2019 (paragraph 77 of the report).

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Lead officer: Duncan Whitfield


05/12/2018 - GW2 Manor Estate (Trapes Ramsfort & Ambrose) QHIP17/18 ref: 6674    Recommendations Approved

Contract award approval – Manor Estate QHIP

Decision Maker: Strategic Director of Housing

Decision published: 07/12/2018

Effective from: 15/12/2018

Decision:

That the award of the Ramsfort, Trappes & Ambrose Street (Manor Estate) QHIP 2017-2018 via a mini-competition from the major works constructor framework to Saltash Enterprises Ltd for a period of 36 weeks, be approved.

Wards affected: South Bermondsey;

Lead officer: Michael Scorer


06/12/2018 - Commercial Property Portfolio: Addition of Income Generating Asset

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Decision due date: 11/12/2018

Wards affected: (All Wards);

Notice of decision: 06/12/2018