• Spittal was designated a conservation area in November 1995. 9
• In March 2003, consultants produced the completed Spittal Conservation Area Appraisal, which assessed the elements which contribute towards the historic and architectural character of Spittal, and makes suggestions for the protection and enhancement of the area. 9
• Included in these proposals is the extension to the Spittal Conservation Area. 9
9 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT BRIEF SPITTAL POINT, SPITTAL, BERWICK-UPON-TWEED 13
• A Draft Development Brief has been prepared to facilitate and guide the redevelopment of Spittal Point: 13
• Subject to the Committee’s consideration, the Brief will be published for consultation: 13
• Subject to the outcome of the consultation process, consideration may be given to adopting the Brief as Supplementary Planning Guidance. 13
10 RESPONSE TO THE NORTHERN WAY GROWTH STRATEGY 16
• The Northern Way Growth Strategy proposes a vision for the North of England. It has been developed by the three northern Regional Development Agencies: One NorthEast, Northwest Development Agency and Yorkshire Forward. 16
• The vision aims to make the North of England an area of exceptional opportunities, combining a world-class economy with a superb quality of life. 16
• The strategy is geared to achieving long-term sustainable growth, with the Northern regions having the necessary powers, freedoms and flexibilities to realise this vision by 2025. 16
11 BERWICK-UPON-TWEED BOROUGH COUNCIL’S RESPONSE TO THE DRAFT NORTH EAST TOURISM STRATEGY 2004 – 2007 PUBLISHED BY ONE NORTHEAST 18
• One NorthEast has produced a draft North East Tourism Strategy 2004 – 2007 to shape the way we all deliver tourism services in the region over the next three years. 18
• The document has been prepared by the Interim Regional Tourism Forum and consultation on the draft is now underway with key stakeholders. 18
• The Council has been invited to respond to the document by Friday 6 August 2004. (A copy of the document is available for viewing in Members’ Library, or on the ONE website: www.onenortheast.co.uk) 18
12 THE DEVELOPMENT OF A LOCAL COMPACT AGREEMENT FOR THE BOROUGH 21
• An introduction to Local Compact agreements between the public sector and community and voluntary sector groups and to seek agreement to establishing one for the borough. 22
• New legislation expected on Business Improvement Districts may be of interest to Berwick upon Tweed, offering new ways of regenerating the business and trading areas of the town. 24
14 RATE RELIEF UNDER SECTIONS 43 AND 47 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE ACT 1988 26
• Applications for Mandatory and Discretionary Rate Relief under Sections 43 and 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988. 26
• Expenditure reported against revised estimate. 29
• Report presented to Policy (Environment) Committee on 14th July. 29
17 SCOTTISH BORDERS LOCAL PLAN – CONSULTATIVE DRAFT 30
• Scottish Borders Council have published a Consultative Draft of the Scottish Borders Local Plan. 30
• The plan’s overall strategy is aimed at promoting sustainable growth, resulting in significant areas of new housing and employment land being identified in settlements across the eastern borders and new policies supporting the development of new housing in the countryside. 30
• It is recommended that no objection be raised to the overall strategy but that concern is expressed over the visual impact of consolidated, isolated pockets of buildings in the countryside. 30
• The contrast between Scottish Borders Councils’ support for growth and the impact of the north east region’s development framework on the competitiveness of the Borough needs to be highlighted with regional agencies. 30
PLACE: THE PARISH CENTRE, THE PARADE, BERWICK-UPON TWEED
Members: Councillors A R Bowlas, D G R Buckle, G M Elliott, G P Horsburgh, A Hughes, E I Hunter, C M Liddell-Granger, J D Lockie, D McClymont, R J Patterson, L W Robson and J E Smith.
If you have any enquiries about items on this Agenda, please contact
The Meeting will be open to the Press and Public during consideration of
the items set out in Part 1 of this Agenda.
*** PLEASE NOTE ***
The meeting will be preceded by a presentation by Mr R Smithson of Berwick Preservation Society, on Dewars Lane Granary Development (and also support for the Ice House Development at 4.30pm in the Parish Centre.
1 DECLARATION OF INTEREST
Members are invited to declare any interest they may have in any of the items included on the agenda for this Meeting.
[Note: Any Member wishing to seek clarification as to whether it may be appropriate to declare an interest in respect of any item on this agenda should seek advice from the Chief Executive or Borough Solicitor at least one working day before the Meeting].
2 MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF POLICY (CORPORATE SERVICES AND REGENERATION) COMMITTEE HELD ON 16TH JUNE 2004
Previously circulated; Chairman to sign.
3 EXTERNAL AUDIT PLAN (PLUS SHORT PRESENTATION BY THE COUNCIL’S EXTERNAL AUDITORS)
Report Author: Richard Dell, Head of Accountancy and Audit, tel (01289) 301730, email rd@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Short presentation at the beginning of the agenda
• Bound copy of audit plan distributed as an appendix
• Work of Deloitte set out
Purpose:
To provide the Annual Audit Plan to Members.
Report:
*** The Audit Commission requires the Council’s external auditors to produce an annual audit plan for consideration by Members. Representatives of Deloitte will give a short presentation on the content.
Implications:
None directly, but interaction with External Auditors is a key element of Corporate Governance and an opportunity for Members to ask questions.
Recommendation: To note the Audit Plan for 2004/05.
• Updates members on the proposed programme for this year
Purpose:
To seek approval for the draft programme for Local Democracy Week 2004 including participation in two nation-wide projects.
Report:
The Committee has already given its approval for the Council’s participation in Local Democracy Week this year (14th April 2004). It is our intention to use this opportunity to launch our long-term project to involve young people in decision making in the Borough. The week also gives opportunities for building links between Members and young people. Two national initiatives provide a way of meeting both of these goals:
Take your Councillor to School Day 22nd October
… or college or work, or wherever else you spend your day! This is a simple way of Councillors finding out more about the day to day issues faced by young people in the Borough. We would be able arrange for matches between Councillors willing to participate and young people to be identified through schools, the Youth Project and other agencies.
I’m a Councillor, get me out of here!
This is a more ambitious project based on the popular reality TV show. Councillors (we need at least five to make this work) put short ‘manifestos’ on a website which is supplied by the organisers. Young people then question Members on their manifestos or on other issues and, judging them on their responses, vote off the councillors in turn until one remains. The winner becomes ‘Youth Champion’ for the Borough. We already have the verbal support of the High School for the venture.
The process is managed by a media company who supply the necessary literature and run the website. The total cost for this is £2000 + VAT (ie £2350). We have already identified £1500 for Local Democracy Week. We are negotiating a virement with the Borough Solicitor as budget holder and the Head of Finance (Accountancy and Audit) to cover the shortfall.
Being national initiatives, these also give the additional benefits of contact with others involved in the events and the possibility of wider advertising. The BBC has already indicated its interest in covering “I’m a Councillor” across the country and it is likely that an imaginative approach such as this will generate a considerable amount of interest in the local press.
These two events would provide a good platform from which to launch our Youth Consultation Project for the following reasons:
• each is concerned with enabling young people to direct their ideas and concerns to elected members
• they give opportunities for members to hear the perspectives of young people first hand
• the events are attractive to the media and will give a high profile to the beginning of the longer term project
• they build confidence and knowledge about decision making in young people
Involving Parish Councils
In addition to these nationally based initiatives, we have written to Parish Councils to encourage them to think of their own ideas for involving young people. One suggestion is to involve young people from start to finish in an environmental project, giving them experience of local decision making, project management and hands-on involvement in something tangible. We are currently seeking advice on sources of grants from Els Nicol of the Community Council of Northumberland.
International Dimension
A final part of the Week’s programme will be the opportunity for young people to be involved in a web chat with contemporaries from one or more of our twin towns. This will allow them to share experiences of the decisions that affect the areas they live in, of what part if any they have in those decisions and of their aspirations for their communities.
Implications:
Financial:
As outlined in the report.
Personnel:
Officer time already identified for this work.
We would encourage as many Councillors as possible to agree to participate in the ‘Take your Councillor to school’ day and would hope for at least five volunteers for the ‘I’m a Councillor’ event. Councillors participating in this would have to spend about 30 minutes each day for no more than three weeks responding to emails from young people.
Recommendation: To endorse the initiatives outlined above subject to the identification of a suitable virement.
5 CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE- INFORMATION SHARING AND CO-ORDINATED SUPPORT PROTOCOLS AND TOOLKITS
• Considers the implications for the work of the Borough Council
• Seeks member approval for the protocols and toolkits
Purpose:
To introduce new ways of working with children and young people at risk across the County in the light of recent and forthcoming government legislation.
Report:
A lack of co-ordination between children’s services has become apparent over recent years as a result of some high profile cases of institutional failure to protect some of society’s most vulnerable children and young people. The appropriate response to these failures has come in the form of successive waves of legislation to ensure that children are adequately protected from harm and given a context in which they can grow up safely and flourish.
Northumberland County Council, as lead Children’s Services Authority, has adopted new protocols for the sharing of information about young people and children and for the co-ordination of support to those at risk at the earliest possible stage. The former is essential to ensure that the latter works effectively. The protocols and their attendant toolkits lay out the circumstances in which information should be shared about a child or young person at risk so that the appropriate level of intervention can be offered. The protocol on information sharing in particular is one in which significant cultural changes are required. In the past, agencies have been reluctant to disclose information about an individual out of a legitimate concern for client confidentiality. This approach seeks to place the safety of the child before the protection of confidentiality at all costs. To this end, protocols are necessary to ensure that the information is shared in a safe and controlled environment.
The Co-ordinated Support Protocol provides a framework of strengthened support for children, young people and their families by involving the ‘universal’ services used by all at an early stage. The next step would be to call an informal multi-agency meeting. The final level of ‘co-ordinated intervention’ supports children, young people and their families with more complex ongoing needs. The Appendices outline these processes in detail and, owing to their considerable size, are not attached to this agenda but available for inspection from the Democratic Services Unit.
District Councils do not deliver the core services that most obviously affect the lives of young people – education and social services – but for the following reasons, they are regarded as statutory partners with the lead Children’s Services Authority in the wellbeing of children and as such are asked to endorse the protocols and toolkits:
• Districts do, in fact deliver services that affect children and young people directly, such as housing, sports development and community safety
• under their powers and responsibilities for the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of communities, Districts are increasingly working in partnership to deliver services for children and young people
• elected members often have involvement with vulnerable families in their communities
If members accept these protocols and toolkits, the next step would be to offer training to those most clearly involved with children and young people so that they are familiar with the processes and able to use them when the need arises. In addition, a full child protection policy is being drafted for the Council, which will take account of the new approach to information sharing and co-ordinated support.
Implications:
Financial:
There are no direct financial consequences of adopting the protocols and toolkits.
Personnel:
Relevant staff will be offered training in the philosophy and use of these new processes.
Recommendations: (i) To agree the protocols and toolkits on information sharing and co-ordinated support; and (ii) to organise appropriate training for relevant staff.
6 E-GOVERNMENT – SPREADING THE WORD
Report Authors: Doreen Cleworth and John Cockburn of Northumberland College, John McLuckie, Senior Democratic Services Officer, tel (01289) 301721, email jm@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Describes a learning partnership between Northumberland College and Berwick Borough Council
Purpose:
To seek approval for a new training programme offered in partnership with Northumberland College and building on the Villages Online Project.
Report:
The following proposal builds on the learning partnership already established between the two organisations in the area of ICT training.
This proposal focuses on the need to design and deliver e-government training to a range of target groups within the local community. This will be a two phase approach. Initially training will be targeted at councillors, parish clerks, representatives of local agencies and key community leaders.
The second phase of e-government training will be a certificated course targeted at the general public.
The need for this e-government training
All local authorities have to offer their services on-line by January 2005. Information and services will continue to be accessible through traditional channels but some will be withdrawn over a period of time. Central government is supporting an extensive take-up of electronic information dissemination. Local government, at all levels, has been set targets for accessing local services on-line.
The aim of this e-government training
[a] To prepare locally elected representatives, and others to take up their new role in an era of electronic information.
[b] To introduce strategies to counter the disenfranchisement of a large section of the local community due to a lack of ICT skills and knowledge.
[c] To enable communities and community representatives to work together to discover the meaning and benefits of e- government.
Phase One
The partnership will deliver a course entitled, “An introduction to e-government” at three locations in the Berwick Borough – Northumberland College in Berwick, Seahouses Resource Centre and the Cheviot Centre, Wooler. [These centres are all part of the Villages On-line Project, the latter offering an excellent framework for the delivery of e-learning in a range of small villages in the Borough]
Each course will run for a total of six hours, two hours a session over three weeks during October/November 2004.
The course content will include [a] developing core computing skills which will facilitate the accessing of on-line information e.g. use of browser, email and internet. [b] building knowledge and skills in the on-line environment i.e. finding what you need.
Phase Two
The partnership will build on the skills and knowledge gained from delivering Phase One and offer a 22.5 hour OCN (Open College Network) certificated course called, “e-government – spreading the word”, for the local community. This would be delivered at a range of locations beginning in January 2005.
Financial profile for delivery
Northumberland College will cover the costs of: - tutoring staff, room hire, learning materials, examination fees, administration, publicity etc
For Phase One the Berwick Borough Council will contribute £10 per enrolled student towards these costs. For three introductory courses this will be: - 3 x 10 students per course x £10 = £300.
For Phase Two the Berwick Borough Council will contribute £25 per student. For three certificated courses this will be: - 3 x 10 students x £25 = £750.
Implications:
Financial:
As outlined in the report. It is hoped that the costs will be identified from the IEG budget.
Personnel:
No officer time is needed in the delivery of the training. Councillors will be encouraged to participate and Parish Clerks will be notified through an update to the Tripartite meeting.
Recommendation: To approve the training course outlined above subject to the identification of funds from the IEG budget.
7 COMPREHENSIVE PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT – AN UPDATE
• refers to consideration by Fundamental Budget Review Working Party on proposals for administrative restructure
• sets out another approach
Purpose:
To report to Members of this Committee on consideration of risk from structural change by Fundamental Budget Review Working Party, together with a possible alternative approach
Report:
Following on from the Comprehensive Performance Assessment (CPA) report on the Council, a number of ideas were generated as to the appropriate way forward. The view was expressed that there was a need for a further directorate within the authority and a proposal was put forward for the creation of a third Director post with secretarial support. At the meeting of this Committee in June, the issue was referred to the Fundamental Budget Review Working Party for it to consider the risk elements of the proposal. A synopsis of the views of the Working Party will be presented at the meeting as Committee deadlines do not allow for them to be incorporated.
The June meeting of this Committee also asked for a further report considering whether or not any other changes to the administrative structure should be considered in response to the CPA report. This issue has been discussed at Corporate Team and with the Lead Officer from the ODPM. Three issues lead to a conclusion that it is yet too early to consider whether or not additional posts and a restructure are necessary for the Council to respond to the CPA report and improve its performance in that context.
a. A draft and outline Improvement Plan will be submitted to Council at its meeting on the 29th July. Until that plan is adopted, agreed by the ODPM and then further developed by the Council’s Project Team and subsequently considered by Council, we will not know precisely what gaps in resources we have to achieve the goals we set for ourselves
b. Had the ODPM Lead Officer not agreed to backfill the Project Lead Officer, then we would have had difficulty in providing a dedicated resource to drive forward the improvement process.
c. Members will recall that there were two staffing pinchpoints reports considered through Committees in the last municipal year. The Council has responded by providing funding for posts, some of them traineeships, and appointments have been made. In addition, the Council responded to specific difficulties in Environmental Health and Planning functions by agreeing funding for additional staffing resources. However, postholders have either yet to start or have only recently started work with the Council and we cannot know therefore, the extent to which their appointments have resolved the staffing difficulties.
A final issue is that of the referendum for an Elected Regional Assembly. Clearly, no one can anticipate the outcome of the referendum and it may or may not influence Members’ decision making at this stage.
Bearing these issues in mind, Officers recommend that Members consider the administrative structure issues when there is greater clarity. It is likely that a further report could be submitted towards the end of this calendar year and as part of the budget setting process for 2005/06.
Implications:
None arising directly from this report
Recommendations : (i) To note the contents of this report; and (ii) to agree to reconsider administrative structural matters on receipt of a further report towards the end of this calendar year.
8 SPITTAL CONSERVATION AREA APPRAISAL
Report Author: Michael Stocks, Conservation Officer (Forward Plans), tel 01289 301805, e-mail ms@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Spittal was designated a conservation area in November 1995.
• In March 2003, consultants produced the completed Spittal Conservation Area Appraisal, which assessed the elements which contribute towards the historic and architectural character of Spittal, and makes suggestions for the protection and enhancement of the area.
• Included in these proposals is the extension to the Spittal Conservation Area.
Purpose:
To inform the Committee of the contents of the “Spittal Conservation Area Appraisal”, and seek approval to consult the community on the recommendations within this document, in particular the proposal to extend the Spittal Conservation Area.
Report:
The ‘Spittal Conservation Area’ was designated in November 1995. The ‘Spittal Conservation Area Appraisal’ for public consultation was subsequently completed in March 2003, in response to a special condition imposed by English Heritage, as part of the agreement for the ‘Spittal H.E.R.S. Scheme,’ signed in May 2002.
The appraisal has been considered, and is supported by The Conservation Area Advisory Group.
A copy of this document is available for viewing at the planning unit or electronically at: <\\BER006\IT\Members\pubcons spittal conservation area appraisal.pdf>
The main aims of the appraisal
The appraisal is an effective tool in defining the character and appearance of the conservation area and its special interest. It informs planning policy and the preparation of enhancement proposals. Where certain forms of development would have an adverse effect on the historic or architectural character of the conservation area, the appraisal identifies where extra controls are required, and is a material consideration when determining planning applications.
A summary of its contents
The ‘Conservation Area Appraisal’ examines in detail the unique character of Spittal and the special architectural and historic importance of the settlement, its origins and subsequent development. This includes its industrial heritage, and function as a ‘Spa Town’. Also the archaeological significance of the settlement are considered together with opportunities for its protection. This is followed by an analysis of the architectural significance of listed and unlisted buildings and the adjoining spaces and landscape features. It also identifies areas of negative or neutral character.
There follows a visual appraisal of Spittal.
The appraisal concludes with recommendations for the repair and maintenance of buildings, enhancement including floorscape, public utility and building works, with possible sources of finance for implementation. Also an extension of the conservation area and buildings recommended for listing.
A summary of the recommendations and suggested actions in the appraisal
1) Enhancement
• Spa Well Park and the area around the War Memorial would benefit from additional interpretative material and environmental enhancement works.
• The external appearance of the bowling club and path to Sea Road are in need of environmental improvement.
• The industrial buildings and their environs at Spittal Point are in need of regeneration and enhancement.
• The preservation and enhancement of footpaths within and adjoining the Conservation Area will be encouraged.
• Pavement repairs to parking bays along Main Street and replacement of concrete with flags, granite setts for parking bays.
• Repairs to cobbled areas.
• Commence negotiations with British Telecom to secure removal of poles and wires along Main Street, Middle Street, Sea Road and Albert Road.
• The planting of trees in areas identified on a map in the appraisal.
• Negotiate with owners painting and repair of buildings identified on a map in the appraisal.
• It is recommended that the off street parking and cycle parking be provided and visitor parking restrictions be investigated.
• The provision of an entrance feature to the Conservation Area should be investigated.
It is considered that a feasibility study of the above actions be carried out with draft proposals for phased implementation, together with detailed information on funding and possible sources of finance. The local community should have a central role in this process.
A ‘Development Brief’ is currently being prepared for Spittal Point and environs.
2) Further studies needed.
• A study is needed of the industrial archaeology of the area.
• To give more guidance with archaeological information for potential developers, the preparation by English Heritage of an ‘Extensive Urban Survey’ is needed.
• A review of tree preservation orders in Spittal is recommended.
It is suggested that a submission be made to English Heritage for the preparation of an ‘Extensive Urban Survey’.
3) Recommended submissions to D. C. M. S. for the spot listing of buildings.
• The Wilson Terrace buildings,202-206 Main Street.
• 178-180,137-139, Main Street, St. Helen’s Terrace, Spittal School.
• There are other buildings currently outside the conservation area recommended for spot listing including the Shiel, chimney and chemical works.
(There are other buildings also suggested for listing, identified on a map in the appraisal, but it is considered these require further investigation.
The Wilson Terrace buildings, The Shiel, and the chimney identified for spot listing have been submitted to the D. C. M. S, and the Wilson Terrace Buildings and Shiel have subsequently been listed grade 2 buildings. The chimney and ancillary buildings were not considered worthy of listing.
4) Article 4 (2) Directions
• An Article 4(2) Direction should be considered for the Spittal Conservation Area, to help protect features of architectural interest on unlisted buildings (residential properties in private ownership) which otherwise would be permitted development, therefore not requiring planning permission. These include, for example, doors and windows and rooflights.
A survey of buildings is required to ascertain their vulnerability to these changes, and the need for the extra protection of Article 4(2) Directions.
5) Suggested extension to Spittal Conservation Area
• The Spittal Point area of particular industrial archaeological interest
• The area around Spittal Quay, possibly the site of the original Leper Hospital
• The smokehouse on Sandstell Road.
• To the west of Spittal between Cow Road and the railway.
• To the north of the area where there appear to be burgage plots.
• The inclusion of 181-183,Main Street, late Victorian properties.
It is considered that the possible extension of the Spittal Conservation Area should be considered a priority, to help with the protection and enhancement of these other areas.
Designation will be subject to public consultation, which may be usefully combined with seeking the public’s views on the contents of the Spittal Conservation Area Appraisal.
Legal procedure for designation states that designation takes effect from the date of the appropriate resolution of the authority, Notification of its designation, with particulars of its effect, will be published in the London Gazette, and in at least one newspaper circulating in the area of the local planning authority, and notify to the Secretary of State and Commission.
6) New Development
• Any proposed development or demolition in the areas denoted in the Spittal Conservation Area Appraisal should be preceded by an archaeological assessment and evaluation.
• New development must respect the existing character of the Conservation
Area.
• No further development across burgage plots will be permitted.
Public Consultation
There is a need to consult the local community on the contents of the appraisal without delay, bearing in mind the draft publication was completed in March 2003. It is suggested that the possible extension of the Spittal Conservation Area be considered at the same time. The community’s focus of interest is likely to be on the suggestions for enhancement, parking issues, the possible extension of the conservation area and implications for the control of development. The consultation could be in the form of a public meeting, possibly with focus groups to discuss issues of particular interest, and steering them forward. Visual aids would be useful to help clarify the issues being considered.
It is suggested that the public meeting be held towards the end of September, avoiding the holiday season.
Implications:
Local Agenda 21:
The appraisal is recommended to be the subject of community consultation; it will form the basis of an integrated partnership approach to securing the environmental, social and economic well-being of Spittal in a sustainable manner. It therefore accords with the principles of Local Agenda 21.
Equal Opportunities:
The appraisal includes suggestions and recommendations to improve the social and economic conditions, acknowledging the needs of all.
Crime and Disorder:
It is considered that the implementation of environmental enhancement schemes recommended in the appraisal will contribute to making Spittal a safer place for both residents and visitors.
Best Value and Best Practice:
It is recommended that the local community are consulted on the proposals in the appraisal. The proposals will be prioritised taking into account the communities’ needs and aspirations.
Financial/Legal/Personnel:
The financial implications of the environmental improvements will be quantified once a prioritised programme of implementation has been prepared following public consultation.
Officer time will be required to implement the recommendations of the conservation area appraisal.
Recommendations : To consider the contents of the ‘Spittal Conservation Area Appraisal; and (ii) to agree to consult the community on the recommendations within the ‘Spittal Conservation Area Appraisal’, particularly the proposal to extend the boundaries of the Spittal Conservation Area.
9 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT BRIEF SPITTAL POINT, SPITTAL, BERWICK-UPON-TWEED
• A Draft Development Brief has been prepared to facilitate and guide the redevelopment of Spittal Point:
• Subject to the Committee’s consideration, the Brief will be published for consultation:
• Subject to the outcome of the consultation process, consideration may be given to adopting the Brief as Supplementary Planning Guidance.
Purpose:
To seek the Committee’s observations on a Draft Development Brief for Spittal Point; to give consideration to its publication for consultation with landowners, the local community, authorities and organisations with an interest in the site; and to consider the principle of its eventual adoption as Supplementary Planning Guidance.
Report:
Members will be familiar with the collection of buildings at the mouth of the River Tweed known as Spittal Point and the general concern to secure their redevelopment. In general terms the Berwick-upon-Tweed Borough Local Plan seeks the comprehensive and integrated development of the site for a mix of uses, including residential, employment and tourism activity.
To facilitate progress and bring the site forward for development, it is proposed to prepare and publish a Development Brief, the purpose of which is:
• To clarify and amplify current policy in advance of the submission of detailed proposals and;
• To set out guidelines for the physical development of the land in the context of its surroundings.
*** A copy of a Draft Brief is appended to this report and the Committee’s particular attention is drawn to the following sections.
1 Introduction
The Brief’s four objectives are described at paragraph. 1.2, namely:
• To clarify current development plan policies relevant to the site in the light of revised government guidance;
• To set out the Borough Council’s expectations and aspirations for the site, and those of its partners and the local community;
• To promote interest in the redevelopment of the site, and
• To identify constraints acting on the site and the means of mitigating them.
2 Objectives
These are expanded upon in Section 2.
3 Context
The historical, geographical and visual context of Spittal and the Point are described and the latter’s importance is highlighted in the overall context of the town of Berwick. Paragraph 3.26 sets out local plan policy W33; paragraph 3.28 relates the site to Berwick quayside and notes that;
“Securing the successful redevelopment of the two sites is a key regenerative objective; it would also represent a significant environmental improvement in the character and setting of the Berwick and Spittal Conservation Areas and their respective outlooks.”
4 Guidelines for Development at Spittal Point
This section comprises the basis of the Brief and contains 22 Guidelines relating to the physical development of the site and the processes that will facilitate its transformation. Each Guideline relates to one of the four objectives described above.
• Guidelines 3, 4 and 5 establish a range of densities for residential development, the employment uses which will be encouraged and the means of quantifying the mix of uses within the site. Members will note that the latter will require the developer to research the market’s perception of the site’s relative competitiveness.
• Guidelines 6, 7 and 8 relate to the likelihood of the site being developed in phases, incorporating an element of, as yet unquantified, affordable housing. Members will note the need to carry out a Housing Needs Survey.
• Guidelines 9 to 13 describe the basis for physical change within the site in the context of the proposed extension of the Spittal Conservation Area (as recommended elsewhere in the agenda). The developer will be required to prepare a Conservation Plan, comprising a “detailed and comprehensive assessment and appraisal of the significance of the site, which will investigate its community and social importance as well as its aesthetic qualities.”
• Paragraph 4.22 and Guideline 14 discuss the means of access to the site. It will be noted that a new access is mooted, linking the southern end of Dock road to the Point. The Committee’s attention is drawn to the proposed incorporation of the Council’s car park at Sandstell Road into the proposed alignment of the road.
• Paragraphs 4.24 to 4.32 and Guideline 17 place the development of the Point in the context of the requirement placed upon the Council to plan, manage and monitor the release of land for housing development. Subject to the Committee’s further deliberations on the issues, which underpin this requirement, Guideline 17 seeks to prioritise the site for development.
• Paragraphs 4.33 to 4.36 and Guidelines 19, 20 and 21 concern the Council’s interests in land at and in the vicinity of the Point, and the options available to the authority to act as a facilitator and partner in its redevelopment. The Committee will wish to give careful consideration to the principles of disposal or transfer, the exercising of the Council’s powers of compulsory purchase and assisting the relocation of existing businesses from within the site.
The Brief contains references to a number of appendices and figures, which have not been reproduced within the draft; a further appendix will be prepared, which will set out national, regional, sub-regional and local guidance, aims and objectives and policies relevant to the site.
Member’s comments on the appropriateness of the draft Brief are sought, subject to which, it is recommended that it be published for wider consultation, the outcome of which will be reported to the Committee on its conclusion.
Implications:
Local Agenda 21:
The redevelopment of Spittal Point in accordance with local plan policy and the draft Brief will accord with national guidance and policy both in relation to environmental sustainability and the creation of sustainable communities.
Equal Opportunities:
The Brief will assist in building consensus on the future direction of change at the Point, meet relevant objectives of the Community Plan and create opportunities accessible to all.
Crime and Disorder:
The redevelopment of a significant area of decay and dereliction will improve safety and community well being by removing potential hazards.
Best Value and Best Practice:
The draft Brief has been prepared as a corporate and partnership document and formulated in accordance with a government Guide to Better Practice in Planning and Development Briefs.
Financial/Legal/Personnel:
There are no direct financial implications at this stage, but members will note the Brief’s reference to the Council’s land ownership at the Point and the need to undertake a Housing Needs Survey in due course.
Land ownership issues and possible intervention to assist development may have legal implications in the medium to long term.
Further officer time will be required to advance the Brief and undertake consultation.
Recommendations: (i) To note the objectives and content of the Draft Brief and to revise and amend it where appropriate; (ii) to note the Council’s interests in the site and its environs and the contents of Guidelines which will influence consideration of those interests in the future; and (iii) to authorise its publication for consultation with landowners, authorities, agencies and organisations with an interest in the site, and the local community.
10 RESPONSE TO THE NORTHERN WAY GROWTH STRATEGY
Report Author : Shona Alexander, Director of Regeneration and Development, (01289) 301800, email spa@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• The Northern Way Growth Strategy proposes a vision for the North of England. It has been developed by the three northern Regional Development Agencies: One NorthEast, Northwest Development Agency and Yorkshire Forward.
• The vision aims to make the North of England an area of exceptional opportunities, combining a world-class economy with a superb quality of life.
• The strategy is geared to achieving long-term sustainable growth, with the Northern regions having the necessary powers, freedoms and flexibilities to realise this vision by 2025.
Purpose:
To summarise our response to the Northern Way Growth Strategy.
Report:
Summary of the Strategy Document
Core priorities:
- Investing in the city regions in the North to make them more attractive places to live, work and visit
- Ensuring that our universities are world class in their teaching and research and work well with businesses to boost economic success
- Supporting the creation of more indigenous businesses and attracting more entrepreneurs to the North
- Ensuring that the North’s companies can compete effectively in global markets
- Creating a skilled workforce and reduce the number of people out of work
- Improving road, rail, air and sea transport
- Creating vibrant sustainable housing markets which meet the North’s economic aspirations
- Selling the North
Distinctive Challenges:
The Northern Way Growth Strategy outlines a spatial focus on “a broad corridor containing the North’s major cities, from Liverpool and Manchester through to Sheffield, Leeds and Hull, and up through the Tees Valley to Newcastle”. It adds that “The North’s magnificent landscapes, lakes, rivers and coastlines are also of central importance… These natural assets, and our rural communities, are key to the superb quality of life which the North offers and the image of the North which we wish to promote through the Northern Way”.
The Growth Strategy aims to bring significant benefits to the broad travel to work areas around the North’s major urban centres. “Strengthening our city regions will bring significant benefits to the North as a whole by attracting more investment, more visitors and more talent”.
Better road, rail, air and sea transport is a key feature of the strategy. It identifies the M62 as the prime link between Ireland and Europe, and will “move towards identifying some of the road, rail, air and port investments that are key to boosting economic growth and will seek to influence national transport plans on a pan northern level”.
Proposed Response from Berwick-upon-Tweed Borough Council
Berwick-upon-Tweed Borough Council welcomes the Northern Way Growth Strategy in its efforts to promote the North East Region. We also welcome stronger strategic working with our neighbouring regional development agencies to improve the economic and social well-being of the north of England as a whole. However, there are particular concerns which we would wish to express at this stage, as the strategy is being developed.
1. Economic development - The long-term sustainability of the region’s rural areas is essential for improving the quality of life overall. We accept that the City-region concept is valid, with most of the region’s economic prosperity dependent on thriving cities. However, it is important that this economic prosperity is balanced across the region. Local economies, particularly in rural areas cannot simply rely on “trickle down” benefits from the City-region. The strategy so far appears to regard rural areas mainly as tourist attractions and for residence by workers commuting to the cities. It is important that economic prosperity for small towns and villages is properly promoted to breathe new life into these areas, with support and encouragement for small businesses and improved public services, particularly transport, to ensure sustainability.
2. Lifelong learning and training - The need to ensure that lifelong learning and workforce skills development opportunities are accessible to residents in rural areas, especially young people, is important for the economic success of the region overall. In developing the region’s universities and colleges it is essential that these include good quality, integrated distance-learning facilities so that people in our borough do not always have to travel long journeys to access training courses. Improving public transport is also key to ensuring better access to education and training.
3. Transport - Berwick is a key gateway to the whole Northern Way area. This needs more recognition within the strategy itself. So far, the documentation and presentation materials on the strategy appear to stop just north of Newcastle. In particular, the A1 and North East rail line must be seen to be strategic transport links which are absolutely vital to the economic prosperity of the wider north of England, and Edinburgh as an adjacent major city- region. To this end, the Northern Way Growth strategy should give a strong commitment to improving both these transport routes, especially further dualling of the A1 to enhance road safety and ease of access. Similarly, the A7, A69 and A75 are major transport and communication routes and part of both UK and European networks. It is important that cross-border links are maintained and improved, to mutual advantage.
4. Housing - We support the need to “accelerate substantially the rate of house building and renewal over the next two decades” to meet housing needs and demands. In Berwick, there is a particular need for affordable and social housing to ensure sustainability of local rural communities. This needs to be properly addressed in both the Northern Way Growth strategy, and also the Regional Spatial Strategy.
5. Marketing - While we welcome all efforts to “sell the north” we have concerns about how this will actually be achieved in practice, given the rich diversity of the Northern Way area. We would welcome further discussion on this aspiration, particularly in light of current work on the North East Tourism Strategy and a move towards comprehensive Destination Management initiatives.
Implications:
Outlined in the report.
Recommendations (i) To approve the Council’s response to the Northern Way Growth Strategy as outlined in section 3 above; and (ii) to submit this to One NorthEast as part of their consultation process.
References
The Northern Way Growth Strategy – Interim Progress Report Summary, May 2004 (www.thenorthernway.co.uk)
11 BERWICK-UPON-TWEED BOROUGH COUNCIL’S RESPONSE TO THE DRAFT NORTH EAST TOURISM STRATEGY 2004 – 2007 PUBLISHED BY ONE NORTHEAST
Report Author : Shona Alexander, Director of Regeneration and Development, (01289) 301800, email spa@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• One NorthEast has produced a draft North East Tourism Strategy 2004 – 2007 to shape the way we all deliver tourism services in the region over the next three years.
• The document has been prepared by the Interim Regional Tourism Forum and consultation on the draft is now underway with key stakeholders.
• The Council has been invited to respond to the document by Friday 6 August 2004. (A copy of the document is available for viewing in Members’ Library, or on the ONE website: www.onenortheast.co.uk)
Purpose:
To provide Members with a summary of the draft Tourism Strategy, and to provide Members with a suggested Council response to this document, setting out our own aspirations and concerns about tourism in the region.
Report:
Important changes are now underway in the organisational responsibilities for tourism in the region. ONE is working with key stakeholders to define the most appropriate partnership structures and working arrangements for meeting the tourism needs of visitors, businesses and statutory agencies. Their draft strategy document seeks to set out the key principles on how this can be achieved, and reach a region-wide agreement on our priorities.
Summary of the Draft Strategy Document:
Vision and Strategy – that “The North East of England will become a sought after destination 365 days a year – for leisure and business visitors – with activities, attractions, facilities and accommodation that consistently exceed visitor expectations”.
Objectives
a. Attract more domestic and overseas tourists from outside the region
b. Increase tourists’ average spend and increase day visitor spend
c. Increase visits throughout the year, not solely in the main holiday season
d. Increase employment in tourism and tourism-related businesses
e. Improve the productivity of tourism businesses
f. Accelerate the rate of investment in tourism facilities
g. Improve visitor satisfaction by improving the quality of the North East tourism product
h. Enhance and conserve the region’s natural heritage and cultural assets
Measurements, targets and milestones for each of these objectives will be defined in Action Plans. These will take account of VisitBritain’s aim of achieving a 23% increase in Britain’s annual overall tourism expenditure between 2002 – 2005.
Strategy Components
The strategy outlines 7 core components:
• Activities and attractions
• Accommodation
• Information provision
• Infrastructure
• Marketing, Communication and branding
• Business and workforce development
• Planning and the environment
Proposed Response from Berwick-upon-Tweed Borough Council:
Berwick-upon-Tweed Borough Council welcomes the draft North East Tourism Strategy 2004 – 2007. The document provides a clear vision for how tourism can and should be developed in the region as a major economic driver to provide sustainable growth and prosperity. It is particularly important that the North East Tourism Strategy is agreed and well-supported by key stakeholders during deliberations on the Northern Way Growth Strategy. This initiative, supported by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, involves the three regional development agencies: One NorthEast, Yorkshire Forward and NorthWest Development Agency working in partnership to secure sustained economic growth. The North East must have a robust tourism strategy in its own right to ensure that the region’s tourism needs and aspirations are properly addressed within the Northern Way initiative.
The Council supports the recognition of the importance which tourism has for our local economy. We welcome efforts to extend the tourism season to 12-months of the year throughout the region by broadening the range and scale of visitor attractions we have to offer. This should recognise the need to offer different types of attractions in cold and wet weather conditions.
We support the strategy in seeking to:
• Support the development of improved accommodation in Northumberland, together with appropriate quality assurance schemes. We recognise the need to constantly improve the quality and range of accommodation available here in the Borough, where there is great potential;
• Provide information that is accessible, informative and readily understood through investment in services;
• Create a single, region-wide destination information management system, for connectivity between websites and other information sources. Destination Management Organisations (DMOs) have great potential to “join-up” services so that our tourism offer is constantly improving and appeals to more people, more often. We are particularly keen to improve repeat business in the borough, so that visitors return here for both long and short-breaks. We are also keen to explore the potential for conferences and other business events which could enhance tourism here. Consideration should be given to creating at least one DMO in the Northumberland County area, to reflect the richness of the tourism offer here, and ensure that this is properly supported and promoted within the region and further afield.
• Clearly define the role of Tourist Information Centres (TICs) to better respond to the new demands of visitors, tourism businesses, funders and technology and become part of a fully integrated network of TICs throughout the region. This is particularly important for our three TICs here in the most northern part of the region. The network could include improved central purchasing schemes for merchandise, with on-line point of sale systems to monitor sales and stock control;
• Provide training and operational support for Tourism Information Centres. Career development and progression needs to be enhanced as part of this, to recognise the particular skills required to provide high quality tourism information services. For example we would welcome support being given to staff who wish to develop their foreign language skills, ideally through flexible or distance learning schemes;
• Improve access to a wide range of leaflets, brochures, maps and other materials. We would welcome additional resources and support for this at a very local level, particularly to promote micro-businesses since they often have particular goods and services which give “unique selling points” for tourism in the area. Interactive communication nodes should be developed at all main tourist venues and travel stations. For example we are particularly keen to exploit the full potential of Berwick railway station as a nodal tourist information point, linked to an integrated network of TICs;
• Produce management plans for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Heritage Coasts together with Action Plans for Market Towns which improve essential facilities needed for increased visitor numbers. Whilst the unspoilt nature of our rural areas is one of the region’s biggest tourist attractions, and must be protected, we need to widen visitor appeal and improve access for all;
• Strengthen the tourism offer in market towns, coastal settlements and specific rural locations through investments in building conversions, iconic new buildings, cultural and sporting events. We have a number of very exciting regeneration projects currently underway in the Borough which exactly fit with this objective, but which require funding and other support if they are to be successful;
• Create a region-wide Tourism Signing strategy which meets specific local needs for publicising attractions. We are particularly keen to support “welcome” signs on the A1 and other main routes across the Scottish Border, since we serve as a major gateway to the whole North East region;
• Integrate public transport through better co-ordination of services and better information. We are particularly keen to support work on an Action Plan for improving public transport in rural areas. Further improvements to the A1 are absolutely essential for tourism to the region so we would hope that this is recognised by the Tourism Strategy.
Implications:
None arising directly from this report.
Recommendation : Members are recommended to approve the Council’s response to the draft Tourism Strategy, as outlined above, and formally submit this to ONE before Friday 6 August.
References: Draft North East Tourism Strategy 2004 – 2007 published by One NorthEast, June 2004
12 THE DEVELOPMENT OF A LOCAL COMPACT AGREEMENT FOR THE BOROUGH
• An introduction to Local Compact agreements between the public sector and community and voluntary sector groups and to seek agreement to establishing one for the borough.
Purpose:
To inform Members of the requirement for the Borough Council to establish a Local Compact agreement and the early work that has taken place to date. To propose a way forward for the development of the Compact for Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Report:
A Local Compact is a formal partnership agreement between key public sector bodies and the Community and Voluntary sector across a range of mutual issues. They are a requirement placed upon the public sector by national government following the establishment of the National Compact in 1998. Local Compact agreements must be published by 01 April 2005.
The public sector bodies that are required to have Compact agreements include local authorities, primary care trusts, the police, and learning and skills councils. The Community and Voluntary sector covers a wide range of groups that are involved in community support activities from local history groups, community social groups such as scouts or University of 3rd Age, health support groups such as Berwick Family Centre or the Disability Forum as well as large well-known charities such as Berwick CAB or Age Concern.
The Compact agreement should incorporate a number of elements, or ‘codes’. These include:
- Good Practice on Community groups
- Black and Minority Ethnic groups
- Volunteers
- Funding
- Consultation and Policy Appraisal
The Compact agreement is more than just the document endorsed by the parties to the agreement. The mutual advantage designed to be achieved through the agreement only comes when it leads to change in practice and understanding on both sides.
Further details on Local Compacts can be viewed on the website: www.thecompact.org.uk
A Compact for Berwick-upon-Tweed
Discussions on the creation of a Local Compact were initiated by the Borough Council in late 2003 with other key public sector partners who have the same requirement upon them. A similar process has also started at County level. Berwick Borough Local Strategic Partnership agreed at its Executive Board meeting May 2004 to act as a host body for the Berwick Compact development and to provide some support for the process. An introductory event for Berwick groups was held on 6th July 2004 at Ford. While the LSP has agreed to act as the host body, which means that it provides the forum by which the partners can come together, the agreement will be signed off by the authority and other public sector bodies. The event also explained the parallel process taking place at County level through the Northumberland Strategic Partnership.
There is significant work to do to involve and inform the wide audience within the borough, as well as the preparation of documentation and linking up with NSP. This will include:
- join county steering group
- working with the LSP sub-group
- information and consultation campaign with local community and voluntary groups
- prepare and/or sharing documentation for Berwick Local Compact
- formally ratifying the final agreement
- work with Council Services on the implications for their activities and practices
There is currently no staffing resource identified to support this development work. While the LSP can support part of the process in terms of acting as the forum through which discussions can be facilitated and information can be disseminated, this will require officer input at the development stage. More importantly, there will be work to support the cascading of changes across the activities and practices of the Borough Council to ensure that it complies with the Compact. Resourcing is being considered, and a further report will be brought to this committee at its meeting in September 2004.
Implications:
Financial:
One of the elements of the Compact relates to funding but this focuses on ensuring clear and transparent information and processes rather than identifying new or additional funding.
Legal:
The Compact is a binding agreement on both sides. If the process breaks down there is a mediation process which the parties can have recourse to in order to work through differences and disputes.
Personnel:
The process of dissemination and cascading changes the Compact may bring to the Borough Council may require staff training to support the implementation of those changes.
Recommendation: It is recommended that this committee support the development of a Local Compact agreement for the local area, working through the LSP as the forum for partners across the Borough, and where relevant, at County council level.
• New legislation expected on Business Improvement Districts may be of interest to Berwick upon Tweed, offering new ways of regenerating the business and trading areas of the town.
Purpose:
To provide Members with information on the opportunities that may be available to Berwick Borough under the Business Improvement District Programme; to outline the implications of this, and to seek endorsement for the start of a consultation process with the relevant stakeholders.
Report:
A Business Improvement District (BID) is a partnership arrangement through which local authorities and the local business community can take forward schemes which would benefit the local community, subject to the agreement of ratepayers. BIDs are part of the government's long term strategy of encouraging partnership working between local authorities and local businesses to achieve improvements.
Non-domestic ratepayers would agree, through a ballot, to pay an additional levy on their rate bill to finance a BID. The ratepayers themselves decide in advance on the way in which their money is spent and how much they are prepared to pay in addition to their rates bill. The additional levy is paid into a separate account and only used on the agreed projects, and there is flexibility to seek contributions from elsewhere. The amount to be paid can be varied according to the payer, for instance charitable organisations could pay less. The Authority would be responsible for collecting the BID levy and running the ballot.
A BID can be established in any place where additional services to those which the Local Authority provides are desired by the local business community. BIDs could be located in town centres, in one or two particular streets, industrial estates, or business parks. They can last for any agreed period not more than five years, after
*** which it can be renewed by another ballot. Examples are given in Appendix 1.
Projects could cover, for example
• Cleanliness and safety - more frequent policing, installation of CCTV cameras and litter bins
• Marketing and events – festivals, markets
• Transport and accessibility – improved design, more bus services
• Inward investment and development – attracting more businesses, local training and employment schemes
• Tourism – promoting Berwick outside the area
The important point is that all parties in the BID process agree on the improvements that need to be made and on the necessary steps to achieve it.
The advantages to local businesses are:
• the opportunity to influence investment in their area
• they decide on the amount they wish to contribute through the BID levy
• all the organisations benefiting from the projects would have contributed to them fairly
• there is flexibility to expand the programme by additional fundraising
The advantages to local authorities are:
• the opportunity to raise funds for specific projects agreed locally
• a sustainable income stream
• a clear timed process for the development and implementation of a BID
• a fair and affordable process can be offered for stakeholders
• power to veto a BID under certain circumstances e.g. if a BID is unfair to certain ratepayers or other stakeholders in the area, or is contrary to locally adopted statutory plans
There are certain key issues that would need to be discussed in more detail with stakeholders in order to ensure the development of a successful BID. These would include the geographical area to be covered, the period of time to be covered, the issues to be addressed under such a programme, and the willingness of local traders to pay a levy. To begin initial discussions we intend to approach stakeholders such as the Chamber of Trade and Berwick and Berwickshire Business Forum, Estate Agents and the North East Chamber of Commerce. Legislation is expected in the autumn of 2004 giving full details of the regulations that will apply to BIDS. A suggested timetable from this point for development is
*** given in Appendix 2.
Implications:
Best Value and Best Practice:
Financial:
If agreed then the Revenue section would administer the billing and collection of the BID levy.
Personnel:
Initial Project management of the BID process would be provided by the Market Towns Initiative Programme Manager.
Legal:
Legal and Democratic Services would be required to support the vote on the BID. This could be charged to the BID’s future income.
Recommendation: (i) To note the report; (ii) to agree to an approach to stakeholders in autumn 2004, or when legislation is passed; and (iii) in principle to agree to the establishment of a BID should there be local demand.
14 RATE RELIEF UNDER SECTIONS 43 AND 47 OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE ACT 1988
• Applications for Mandatory and Discretionary Rate Relief under Sections 43 and 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988.
Purpose:
To consider applications for rate relief under sections 43 and 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 as amended by Schedule 1 to the Local Government and Rating Act 1997.
Report:
Schedule 1 of the Local Government and Rating Act 1997 amended Sections 43 and 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988.
Under Section 43 Mandatory relief of 50% will be granted to qualifying general stores and post offices providing the property concerned:
Is within a settlement identified in this Authority’s rural area,
Has a rateable value of not more than £6,000,
Is used as a general store or post office, or both, and
Is either the only general store or post office in the settlement.
With effect from 5th April 2001, the provision was extended to include sole village public houses and petrol filling stations with a rateable value of not more than £9,000.
In addition, the Council may grant discretionary relief, under the provisions of Section 47, of up to 100% of the charge levied, to any rural business provided that it;
Is within a settlement identified in this Authority’s rural area,
Has a rateable value of not more than £12,000,
Is used for a purpose which is of benefit to the local community, and
Is reasonable for relief to be granted, having regard to the interests of the local Council Tax payers.
The cost of the mandatory relief is met by the NNDR Pool. Where discretionary relief is awarded in addition to a mandatory award , the Council meets 25% of the cost of the discretionary relief, as detailed on the schedule.
The following applications have been received.
NAME/PROPERTY
DATES
TOTAL MAND.RELIEF
TOTAL DISC.RELIEF
Mrs K Hunter
Black Bull, Etal
Public House
4/5/04 -31/3/05
£1596.88(50%)
£1596.87(50%)
Cost to the Council; £399.22
Mrs M Flannigan
East Ord Stores & PO
8/6/03 -31/3/05
£455.37(50%)
£455.36(50%)
Cost to Council; £113.84
Implications:
Financial/Legal/Personnel:
The financial implications are detailed in the body of the report.
Recommendation: (i) To grant mandatory relief; and (ii) to consider the applications for discretionary relief for the period until 31st March 2005.
References:
Applications and supporting documentation.
Sections 43 and 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988. Schedule 1 Local Government and Rating Act 1997.
• Housing Repairs expenditure contained within revised estimates
• Main overspend on estimate of rents due to right to buy sales
Purpose:
To report on the provisional out-turn position for the Housing Revenue Account.
Report:
The aim with regard to the Housing Revenue Account has been to keep the balances as close to £500,000 as possible as this conforms to guidance on appropriate reserve levels. The revised estimate for 2003/04 had estimated year-end balance of £599,885 but this is then budgeted to fall to £513,655 by the end of 2004/05. The draft outturn shows a balance of 502,131 at 31 March 2004 which is a reduction of £97,754 compared with the revised estimate.
The major overspend was due to rental income being £134,017 less than budgeted. Members were advised that there could be a significant variance on this budget head earlier this year. The main problem has been in the way right to buy sales have been estimated. Calculations for rent estimates were based on 60 right to buys during the year but the actual figure was 106. The continuing decrease in housing stock will be a significant factor in the financial projections for updating the business plan this year. Other variances are set out below.
Housing Repairs (£13,992 underspend)
Members will recall that the repairs budget had to be increased by £104,850 during the year and so the increased pressures have been successfully contained.
Interest (£12,929 underspend)
A by-product of increased right to buy sales is increased interest due to the HRA from investments.
Rent rebates
A £17,853 increase in rent rebates is matched almost entirely by increased rent rebate subsidy and so has a net effect of nearly zero
Supervision and Management General (overspend of £12,075)
There were a number of variances on expenditure which netted to an overspend of £4,265. Income was £7,840 less than expected which was almost entirely due to a reduction in water rate commission.
Supervision and Management Special (underspend of £8,624)
This was mainly due to a reduction in expenditure on repairs and maintenance of play equipment (£5,619) and employee costs (£3,507).
Sheltered Housing and Homecare (underspend of £15,685)
The main elements of underspend were equipment and tools (£11,759), repairs and maintenance (£5,052) and heating, lighting and cleaning. (£4,003). This was offset by income from fees and charges being £4,498 less than expected. Significant savings have been realised as a result of the re-tendering exercise carried out during 2002/03 and selection of a new provider in respect of the maintenance of the home care alarm system. This contract commenced in April 2003.
• Report presented to Policy (Environment) Committee on 14th July.
Purpose:
To report on the provisional out-turn position for the Housing Investment Programme.
Report:
This report was considered by Policy (Environment) Committee on 14th July but has been repeated here because of this committee’s overall responsibility for financial matters. The annexes have not been repeatedas this is an overview report.
The expenditure in 2003/04 was £2,044,550 compared with a revised estimate of 2,404,900. This is an underspend of £360,350. The largest contract at Highfields was £6,602 (0.8%) over the original estimate of £755,191. The overspend is due to retention monies from previous years works and it must also be borne in mind that this is an ongoing contract.
There was an underspend of £109,867 (£78,486 on main Improvement grants and £31,381 on Disabled Facilities Grants. In both cases expenditure at the end of the financial year had been committed and it must be remembered that although this Council is the administrative authority for payment of grants, in the case of Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) the programming of such works is to a very large extent outwith our control. This, along with the clinical assessments, is the province of NHS Care Trust staff in conjunction with their clients. In the case of DFGs, 60% is funded by central government grant and the underspend results in a loss of grant of some £18,828. In order to maximise grant, the Council would have to “over programme” offers for DFGs. In the unlikely event of all work being completed within the year, the Council would have to finance the difference itself. Otherwise, unclaimed grant would be rolled forward against the next year’s grant monies. It is proposed that DFGs be over-programmed by a fixed £20,000 in order to improve take-up of central government grant.
The other main underspends were on Newfields kitchens (£91,079) and Kitchen Heating Replacements at Seahouses/Ellingham/Bamburgh. In both cases work was on-going at year end but we have to apply very strict rules about what is charged into accounts for a year, although the main reason for the underspend at Newfields was due to contract savings on the tender for this work (Strategic Partnership Agreement) and retention monies being included in this figure but falling due next financial year. With regard to Seahouses/Ellingham/Bamburgh, delays were experienced as a result of the utility services.
It is anticipated that final out-turns for the HIP, subject to Quantity Surveyor’s final re-measurement, will be available during the autumn period. A revised estimate will be presented to committee at this time following the audit of the accounts.
Implications:
Financial/Legal/Personnel:
Members are reminded that capital works are generally of a much longer timeframe than revenue. Apart from Disabled Grants, there is no loss to the Authority of works being delayed.
Recommendations: (i) To note the spending position for 2003/04; and (ii) to agree that Disabled grants are over-programmed for 2004/05 by £20,000.
17 SCOTTISH BORDERS LOCAL PLAN – CONSULTATIVE DRAFT
Report Author: Peter Rutherford, Senior Planner (Forward Plans), tel 01289 301847: email pr@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Scottish Borders Council have published a Consultative Draft of the Scottish Borders Local Plan.
• The plan’s overall strategy is aimed at promoting sustainable growth, resulting in significant areas of new housing and employment land being identified in settlements across the eastern borders and new policies supporting the development of new housing in the countryside.
• It is recommended that no objection be raised to the overall strategy but that concern is expressed over the visual impact of consolidated, isolated pockets of buildings in the countryside.
• The contrast between Scottish Borders Councils’ support for growth and the impact of the north east region’s development framework on the competitiveness of the Borough needs to be highlighted with regional agencies.
Purpose:
To advise the Committee about the publication of a consultative draft of the Scottish Borders Local Plan; to highlight policies and proposals which are relevant to the current and future development plan frameworks for the Borough; and to make appropriate comments to Scottish Borders Council.
Report:
Scottish Borders Council is responsible for both the preparation of a Structure Plan for its administrative area and a Local Plan. The Scottish Borders Structure Plan was approved in November 2002. A consultative draft of the Council’s local plan has now been published and the authority has invited comments to be submitted in connection with its contents by 3rd September. Members will be aware that the Scottish Borders encompasses a large area, this report concentrates on those issues which are of particular relevance to the Borough, in either geographic or thematic terms.
At the outset the plan notes that the towns and cities outwith the Scottish Borders which “affect” the area through work, retail and leisure opportunities are Edinburgh, Berwick, Newcastle and Carlisle. This reiterates previous statements contained in national and regional economic and planning documents, that Berwick provides employment and services for the population of the eastern borders.
The Plan interprets the Structure Plan’s strategy of promoting sustainable growth around development hubs, whilst managing change and protecting environmental quality, and gives it a local focus. Between 1981 and 2001 the population of the area increased by 9.8%; the local plan seeks a 12% increase in the number of households in the borders by 2011. The Committee may see this approach in marked contrast to the current dilemma facing the Council - managing a reduction in the annual supply of land for new housing development in the Borough.
The main foci for new development in the eastern borders are Eyemouth and Duns where housing and employment related development are proposed.
Housing
Within the “Berwickshire Housing Market Area” land for a total of 1,135 new housing units is identified, although the plan comments that this represents an overallocation to allow an adequate range and choice of sites (some may fall out as a result of the consultation process). This level of growth is justified on the basis that the area has:
“Seen growing demand, partly influenced by the growth of the Edinburgh market, and […] experiences significant pressure for housing in the countryside. The overallocation also takes account of the Council’s ambitions for improved east coast rail links.”
Development at this scale, over the plan period, equates to 113 dwellings per annum. A recent report to the Local Development Framework Sub-Committee detailed the Report of the Panel which conducted the Examination in Public of the Northumberland County and National Park Joint Structure Plan, First Alteration, which recommends an annual completion rate of 60 dwellings per annum for the Borough.
Land is identified in the eastern borders, in the following settlements for the specified number of new housing units:
Ayton 24
Burnmouth 11
Chirnside 113
Coldstream 193
Duns 263
Eyemouth 241
Paxton 16
Reston 49
Up to 505 new units are planned for Kelso.
Employment
The Plan identifies 7 hectares of land at Eyemouth as a Structure Plan Strategic Employment Site and allocates new employment land at Duns (3.85 Ha) and Chirnside (0.65Ha).
5.5 hectares of employment land are allocated in Kelso.
A new settlement
One of the Council’s key objectives is “attracting working age families to the central borders.” To this end the plan is being used as a vehicle to consult on the identification of a location for a new settlement within the Melrose, St. Boswells, Galashiels corridor. Although the precise location of this settlement may not be of concern to the Borough Council, its purpose and link to the reinstatement of the Waverley Railway represents a further strategic commitment from Scottish Borders Council to foster growth. Over one thousand new dwellings are planned. Once established the settlement would present the Central Borders with a critical mass of population, employment and services, which would anchor the local economy and reduce the importance of the “satellite” towns noted above and Berwick-upon-Tweed in particular.
The Committee will also reflect on the impetus generated around investment in strategic transport infrastructure and consider it as a useful benchmark for further discussions on connectivity within the region.
New housing in the countryside
The plan contains policies that support the development of new housing in the countryside, provided that the new development is closely related to an existing group of at least three houses, or a group of buildings, which are capable of conversion to residential use. In the case of the latter, the buildings must be converted prior to the construction of the new dwellings. The number of new units must not exceed the number of existing dwellings. However further dwellings may be approved in the second of the plan’s two, five year periods.
The outcome of this policy could see the consolidation of relatively remote and isolated pockets of development and the gradual erosion of the countryside. Whilst the overall objective of this policy is to restrict development in the countryside, it is designed to relate “long-term sustainable” new development to existing groups of buildings. It is suggested that there is a fine balance to be maintained over this issue and unless the policy is implemented carefully the resultant development may cumulatively adversely impact on the character of the Borough’s Areas of High Landscape Value.
Conclusions
From the foregoing the Committee will recognise Scottish Borders Council’s intention to give positive support to population and economic growth and inward migration. It is anticipated that the Committee would not intend to object to the prosecution of these policies.
However the framework, which supports new housing in the countryside, may be considered to be too liberal. The current balance between development and countryside on the Scottish side of the Tweed may change dramatically over the plan period. The sporadic consolidation of isolated development in areas adjoining the Areas of High Landscape Value, designated in the Berwick-upon-Tweed Borough Local Plan, is likely to have an adverse impact on their quality.
There must be great concern that across an area, which encompasses north Northumberland and the eastern borders of Scotland, which is socially, economically and environmentally homogenous, sustainable growth is to be encouraged on the one hand and fettered on the other. Given that the potential drivers of growth are shared, i.e. the growing proximity of Edinburgh, brought about by investment in transport infrastructure, the Borough’s potentially constrained development framework will render the area uncompetitive. The town of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s importance to the overall well being of the borders may ultimately be compromised. Members may wish to use the Plan as a vehicle to raise, once gain, within the north east region, and in the context of The Northern Way, Berwick’s unique sub-regional relationship with the Edinburgh city region and its potential to drive growth in housing and employment.
Implications:
Local Agenda 21:
The plan’s commitment to the principles of sustainability should secure compatibility with the Borough’s Local Agenda 21.
Equal Opportunities:
Improved social and economic well being in the Scottish Borders will improve opportunities for all across the northern part of the Borough.
Crime and Disorder:
The implementation of the Plan’s policies, encouraging social and economic development should reduce the incidence of cross-border crime and disorder.
Best Value and Best Practice:
No direct implications.
Financial/Legal/Personnel:
No financial or legal implications; officer time will be required to respond to Scottish Borders Council.
Recommendations: (i) To note the Scottish Borders Local Plan Consultative Draft; (ii) to welcome the broad thrust of its strategy for sustainable growth and its recognition of the effect that the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed has on the borders area; (iii) to register concern in connection with the policies for new housing in the countryside, and their potential visual impact on the Areas of High Landscape Value designated in the Berwick-upon-Tweed Borough Local Plan; and (iv) to highlight the potential impact of the plan on Berwick-upon-Tweed’s competitiveness to the Borough Council’s partners in regional planning and regeneration, and Government Office for the North East, One NorthEast, and the Northumberland Strategic Partnership in particular.
18 DRAFT CAPITAL PROGRAMME EXPENDITURE 2003/04
Report Author: Richard Dell, Head of Accountancy and Audit, tel (01289) 301730, email rd@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Variations in expenditure against estimate shown for 2003/04
• Request to move slippage into 2004/05
Report:
*** The annex shows expenditure for 2003/04, which is summarised below.
2003/04 Revised Estimate
Actual Expenditure
Variance
Future year schemes
921,420
1,004,953
83,533
Schemes finishing in 2003/04
109,880
103,171
(6,709)
1,031,300
1,108,124
76,824
The key variances are:
Schemes due to finish in 2003/04
Spittal Coast Protection Works (£13,845 more than estimate)
The overspend is due to the late presentation of an invoice from NCC. However, the additional spend has been financed by grant and sca.
West Street Repairs – (£10,000 slippage)
The works were not carried out due to checking the possibilit
