• Introduction of a comprehensive Tenants’ Guide to housing repairs 5
• Reaffirms Council policy to undertake emergency repairs only once a tenant applies to purchase their council property under the Right to Buy scheme 5
Members: S J Anderson, H Bettison, D G R Buckle, H E Elliott, G E Miller, J M F Nesbit, F I Simpson, J N Simpson, J W Stephenson,
J Waterhouse, W G R Weeks and M Young.
If you have any enquiries about items on this Agenda, please contact Judith Turnbull, Tel: (01289) 301720
AGENDA
PART 1
The Meeting will be open to the Press and Public during consideration of the items set out in Part 1 of this Agenda.
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 the advice from the Chief Executive or Borough Solicitor at least one working day before the Meeting.
2. MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF POLICY (ENVIRONMENT) HELD ON 14TH JULY 2004
To receive and endorse the Minutes of the Meeting of Policy (Environment) held on 14thJuly 2004, already circulated.
3. MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE HOUSING STOCK OPTIONS WORKING GROUP HELD ON 27th JULY 2004
*** To receive and endorse the Minutes of the Meeting of the Housing Stock Options Working Group held on 27th July 2004.
Report Author: Richard Dell, Head of Finance (Accountancy & Audit) Tel No (01289) 301730, email rd@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Exception report at the end of the first three months
• Underspend shown of £45,933 against expected spend of £181,243
• Change of budget holder arrangements.
Purpose:
To identify key budget variances and any necessary corrective action.
Report
*** Changes to the Committee budget.
The latest budget shows no changes to that set in budget in February. However there will be changes for the next report due to the carry forward of unspent budget from 2003/04 and the re-opening of toilets in Wooler which were both agreed in July. In accordance with an External Audit recommendation a summary is enclosed with the Agenda which shows the gross expenditure and income position.
Salary Costs
There is a small amount of underspending due to new posts being appointed later than budgeted. There will also be an underspend due to the increase in cost of living rise being agreed at 2.75% whereas a 3.5% increase was budgeted. This will result in a saving of about £13,000 on General Fund revenue accounts.
Exception Report
Actual expenditure is £45,933 less than expected expenditure for the first three months as shown on the enclosure.
Variances are considered below wherever the difference between expected spend and actual spend on a main heading is greater than £2,000. Underspends are shown with figures in brackets and overspends without brackets.
Environmental Health Services – (£2,468) underspend
This is a combination of an underspend on laboratory expenses and grant which was carried forward from previous years. The main risk of underspend remains laboratory expenses relating to Private Water Supply sampling if staff resources limit work in this area.
Street Sweeping – £3,061 overspend
This is equally an overspend for equipment in the form of litter bins and contractors charges for the removal of more fly-tips than anticipated. However, contractual arrangements will change from 1 January 2005 and the budget will need to be re-assessed nearer the time for this potentially major change.
Recycling £4,266 overspend
The main variance is in fees and charges being far less than expected. Invoices in respect of glass sales and recycling credits have not yet been raised.
Refuse Collection client £4,613 underspend
Sales have been greater than expected for this time of year.
Markets £3,121 overspend
Income is lower than anticipated.
NCC Agency £4,778 underspend
Fees and charges are greater than expected, however this additional income will be passed to NCC.
Off Street Car parks £43,301 underspend
Income is higher than anticipated. The income budget is close to the actual expenditure for last year and so this trend is unexpected. Income will be carefully monitored during the summer months to see if this increase is maintained.
Rent Allowances - £2,605 overspend
Whilst there is an overspend at the moment, it is expected that there will be a consequent increase in government grant which will reduce this significantly.
Implications:
Financial/Legal/Personnel:
The Director of Environment has delegated Environmental Health budgetary control responsibilities to the Principal Environmental Health Officer. This is consistent with the arrangements for the Environmental Maintenance Manager and the Head of Property and Housing.
Conclusion:
Given the underspending in recent years there are a number of areas identified here to monitor during the year . There is nothing significant at this stage where action needs to be taken. The half year spending position will be the key opportunity if decisions are needed which will impact during the year.
Report Authors:Helen Bury, Head of Property and Housing, Tel No (01289) 301830, email hlb@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk and David Brigham, Accountancy Assistant, Tel No (01289) 301830 email db@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Overall programme is running to schedule
• Funding for Disabled Facilities Grant is now confirmed
Purpose:
To provide a quarterly budget control and progress report on the Housing Investment Programme (HIP) 2004/05.
Report:
*** A summary of the budget by scheme for the year, with actual expenditure against the revised estimates, is enclosed with the agenda.
The following improvement schemes to council homes are currently underway:
Highfields – Replacement kitchens and heating systems at approximately 90 properties.
Beadnell and Belford – Replacement windows and doors at approximately 50 properties.
Provisionally, and to be confirmed by the contract programme, the following schemes will be underway during the autumn period:
Wooler - Replacement windows and doors at approximately 30 properties.
Prior Park - Replacement windows and doors at approximately 48 properties.
The Government has now advised as to the amount available for disabled facilities grants during 2004/05, this being £48,330. Members will note that this figure is lower than that originally estimated at £75,000.
Recommendation:
To note the report and progress with delivery of the Housing Investment Programme 2004/05.
Report Authors: Helen Bury, Head of Property and Housing, Tel No (01289) 301830, email hlb@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk and David Brigham, Accountancy Assistant, Tel No (01289) 301761, email db@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Overall underspend on the Housing Revenue Account of £28,514 against original estimates;
• Underspend on the housing repairs budget of £16,600
Purpose:
To provide a quarterly budgetary control report on the Housing Revenue Account for the period 1st April to 30th June 2004.
Report:
*** A summary of the budget for the first quarter of the financial year to 30th June 2004, with details of actual expenditure and variances, is enclosed with the Agenda. This shows an overall underspend of £28,514 on the Housing Revenue Account. Budget variances are shown below:
Housing Repairs (£16,600)
The repairs budget is currently showing an underspend but spend against the estimates is expected to be achieved by the end of the financial year.
Supervision and Management General (£12,263 underspend)
The main saving is on Insurances, this reflects the continued high level of sales of council houses.
Supervision and Management Special (£837 overspend)
The seasonal increase on employees and transport related services are offset by savings on repair of playground equipment. However, it is expected the play area budget will be spent up by year-end.
Sheltered Housing and Homecare (£3896 underspend)
The equipment and tools budget currently shows an underspend of £6,537 due to savings on the contract for maintenance of equipment carried out by Attendo. This will be closely monitored and should an underspend continue, savings will be vired to the Repairs and Maintenance budget within the Sheltered Housing and Homecare budget.
Other fees and charges are showing an overspend of £4,541 due to a reduction in the service charge to tenants set by Blyth Valley Care.
During the period, 22 council homes were sold under the right to buy scheme.
Report Author: Helen Bury, Head of Property and Housing, Tel No (01289) 301830, email hlb@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Introduction of a comprehensive Tenants’ Guide to housing repairs
• Reaffirms Council policy to undertake emergency repairs only once a tenant applies to purchase their council property under the Right to Buy scheme
Purpose:
To introduce a Tenants’ Guide to Housing Repairs.
To reaffirm Council policy to undertake emergency repairs only once a tenant applies to purchase their council property under the Right to Buy scheme.
Background:
The implementation of new ICT systems (housing management including repairs and job costing) has involved a review of a number of procedures and practices within the Property and Housing Unit, particularly with regard to housing repairs.
*** A comprehensive Tenants’ Guide to Housing Repairs has been prepared by the Repairs and Systems Administrator, and a copy is enclosed with the Agenda. Not only should this improve on information provided to tenant customers about the service, and what repairs they can expect to be carried out; the Guide should also help to support procedures and delivery of the service.
Overall, the Guide is self-explanatory although Members’ attention is drawn to conditions relating to repairing obligations once a tenant applies to purchase their council property under the Right to Buy scheme. In such cases, it must be noted that emergency repairs only will be carried out where a tenant chooses to exercise his/her right to buy of the property. Examples of emergency repairs are highlighted in the Guide.
Implications:
Best Value and Best Practice:
The Tenant Customer Panel has been consulted on the development of the Guide and welcomes the introduction of this.
Recommendations:
(i) To approve the introduction of a Tenants’ Guide to Housing Repairs; and
(ii) To note the policy regarding the Council’s repairing obligations once a tenant applies to purchase their council property under the Right to Buy scheme.
Report Author:Rob Marriner, Director of Environment Tel No (01289) 301820, email ram@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• The Food Standards Agency have undertaken an audit of food enforcement activity
• Concerns were expressed regarding levels of compliance with requirements
• An updated Action Plan was agreed following a meeting in London between the FSA and representatives from the Council
• It was agreed that regular reports would be made to this committee.
Purpose:
To advise Members of progress in achieving the agreed Improvement Plan for the Food Safety Enforcement Service.
Report:
As Members are aware the Food Standards Agency (FSA) undertook a second audit of the Food Enforcement Activity function on 28th August 2003. Following the Audit two reports were presented to Committee (see meetings dated 03/09/03 and 16/10/03) detailing resources needed to meet the requirements of the agreed Improvement Plan. It was a requirement of the plan that further progress reports would be made to this Committee.
The Company contracted to undertake the overdue inspections has now completed their contract and inspections are now being carried out by officers of this authority.
*** The enclosure with the Agenda details the position on 19th August 2004. The 8 inspections not carried out by the end of July are rescheduled for completion by the end of September and it is anticipated that all inspections will be completed by this date.
The Environmental Health Software system is to be installed by FLARE and an Implementation Planning meeting was held with them on 18th August. Implementation of the Food Safety element of the package is on target for January 2005.
Procedures for premises inspection and the update of our food database have also been completed.
Implications:
An increase in inspections will result in a higher level of compliance with the law.
Report Authors: Chris Budzynski – Environmental Maintenance Manager, Tel No (01289) 301810, email cjb@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk & Brian Weatherhead – Senior Technical Officer, Tel No (01289) 301812, email bjw@berwick-upon-tweed .gov.uk
Summary:
• Implications of Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) in respect of public conveniences.
• Outcome of accessibility appraisal and audit.
• Recommendations from Asset Management Working Group (AMG)
Purpose:
To update the Committee on progress to meet the terms of the DDA by 31st October 2004.
Report:
Under the terms of the Disability Discrimination Act 1996, the Council, as a service provider/building owner, are required before the end of October 2004 to do all that is reasonably possible in all circumstances to make their premises accessible to, and useable by, disabled people.
An accessibility appraisal and accessibility audit to all non-housing assets has been carried out by David Adamson and Partners.
The audit/appraisal covered the following:
• Approach and car parking
• Routes and external level change, including ramps and steps
• Entrances, including reception
• Horizontal movement and activities
• Vertical movement and internal level change
• Doors
• Toilet facilities
• Fixtures, fittings and equipment
• Information and controls
• Means of escape
The report included:
• Advice on how the building(s) and spaces between and around can best function having in mind the needs of people with disabilities.
• Suggested operational access policies for them
• Established priorities and procedures for carrying out the work
• Identified costs and design changes.
This report has been considered by the AMG who have recommended that this Committee should consider the actions proposed in Schedule 2.
It should be noted that Policy (Corporate Services & Regeneration) have already agreed the following works:
*** Schedule 1 - works costing £55,250.00 (details enclosed with the Agenda)
It should be noted this excluded expenditure of £17k for works at Beadnell Camp Site as discussions regarding the upgrading of the premises are currently ongoing,
*** Schedule 3 - works costing £3,000.00 (details enclosed with the Agenda)
It should be noted that discussions are currently ongoing regarding the transfer of Mitchell Memorial Hall and the disposal of the lease at Thorburns Yard, Seahouses.
*** Schedule 4 - works costing £26,700.00 (details enclosed with the Agenda)
It should be noted that depending on the outcome of investigations for alternative accommodation works will still be required to the main building, which cannot be guaranteed at this stage. The figures shown in Schedule 4 (350,850.00) must only be regarded as a worst case scenario.
*** Schedule 2 defines the works required to bring the public conveniences up to the required/acceptable standard. AMG have scrutinised the various scenarios/technical implications and recommend the actions listed which are costed at £42,750.00, which excludes the following locations:
Church Street, Bamburgh
Magdalene Fields
Ford
Belford
Horncliffe
The disposal or transfer of these remaining assets to other organisations will require further discussions. If the provision is to continue the Council is still likely to incur expenditure in some form of financial assistance. Costs in the region of £100k in total have been identified to make this group of assets DDA compliant. These costs excludes a solution at Belford where the existing asset is unable to be converted.
If the Committee agree to the recommendations in Schedule 2 the commitment to date is as follows:
Schedule 1 55,250.00
Schedule 2 42,750.00
Schedule 3 3,000.00
Schedule 4 26,700.00
-----------------
£127,700.00
-----------------
The Members will be aware that £200k have been identified in the Capital Programme for these works. As shown in Schedule 4 above Members must be aware that there may be significant expenditure to the Council Buildings.
Implications:
Best Value and Best Practice:
The “Access Strategy & DDA Policy” statement will improve and enhance access for all disabled people.
Financial/Legal/Personnel:
Expenditure of £200k has been approved in the Capital Programme for this financial year with a view to completing as much work as practicable by the end of October 2004.
Recommendations:
(i) To consider the report, agree the “Access Strategy and DDA Policy” statement; and
(ii) To agree the actions as set out in Schedule 2 at a commitment of £4,2750.00; and
(iii) To agree the approach as set out in Schedule 2 for the assets shown under “Policy Decision Required”.
10. A1 TRUNK ROAD
Report Author: Chris Budzynski, Environmental Maintenance Manager, Tel No (01289) 301810, email cjb@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• A1 North of Newcastle Multi Modal Study
• Proposals for further dualling between Adderstone & Belford
• Details of public consultation exercise in September 2004
• Visit of Transport Minister to the region.
Purpose:
To update the Committee on proposals to upgrade a further section of the A1 Trunk Road.
Report:
It was reported to Policy (Corporate Services & Regeneration) Committee on 16th June 2004 that the Highways Agency had recently held a stakeholder meeting with representatives from various organisations to look at various options for dualling between Adderstone and Belford. The brief is to look for a dualling scheme for this section of the trunk road to improve road safety.
A further stakeholder meeting has taken place where it was agreed to carry out a public consultation exercise in September 2004 with an announcement on the preferred route in February 2005. It is proposed to award a contract in spring 2005 with a view to works commencing on site in 2008/09.
The A1 North of Newcastle Multi-Modal Study recommended that the A1 should be dualled between Morpeth and Felton along with the section of road between Adderstone and Belford and West Mains to Bridge Mill (near Haggerston) It has been rumoured that the section between West Mains to Bridge Mill has been dropped from this programme. Contact has been made with both the Highways Agency and GONE requesting clarification on the status of this scheme. However, to date, no response has been forthcoming. A verbal update will be given at the meeting.
It was also disappointing that, despite being invited to meet the Transport Minister, to discuss the condition of the A1 in north Northumberland, (when he visited the region in July), he did not even have the time to view this section of single carriageway road and more or less confirmed that the complete dualling of the road was not a priority.
Despite this disappointing news it is proposed to continue lobbying the Government through the Border Visions Project and A1 Safelink Campaign to make a commitment to the dualling of the remaining sections of the single carriageway.
Recommendation:
(i)To agree to continue to pursue the need to complete the dualling of the A1 Trunk Road on both sides of the Border; and
(ii) To continue to press both the Highways Agency and GONE for clarification on the status of the dualling scheme between West Mains and Bridge Mill.
11. LOCAL TRANSPORT PLAN
Report Author – Chris Budzynski, Environmental Maintenance Manager Tel No (01289) 301810, email cjb@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Contribution of funding for schemes identified in 5 Year Programme
• Bidding process for funding in 2005/06
• Schemes identified in programme must meet Government criteria to be eligible for funding.
Purpose:
To consider the report and agree schemes to be included in the proposed 5 Year Programme for submission to Northumberland County Council.
Background:
Each year the Council are asked by Northumberland County Council to submit schemes to be included and considered for funding in the 5 Year Programme under the Local Transport Plan. Any scheme has to meet the following criteria:
• Improvements to road safety
• Improvements to vulnerable users
• Promoting sustainability
• Community safety improvements
• Part of package measures
• Community priority
• Attracting external funding or providing synergy with other projects.
*** Contact has also been made with Parish Councils, requesting similar information. The existing 5 Year Programme, which identified schemes that have previously been submitted, is enclosed with the Agenda for information.
The following two schemes have recently been identified as meeting with the criteria and are recommended to be included in the final programme to be submitted later this year:
Castlegate: proposed environmental and hard landscaping improvements to be carried out in conjunction with Northumberland County Council who propose carrying out extensive road reconstruction works later this year. A partnership with Castlegate Residents Association (CARA) has been formed to take this project forward – plans will be on display at the meeting.
Berwick Station Car Park: following receipt of Schedule Monument Consent and planning permission it is hoped to commence works in the autumn with works to provide a coach/rail interchange. However, these works will not provide many additional car parking spaces. A working group involving representatives from CARA, the Rail Industry and this authority have been looking into the possibility of providing additional spaces (40-50) in the area currently used by Network Rail as a yard for car parking. The proposals would include “opening up” the site of the old castle complete with interpretation panels and viewing points – plans will be on display at the meeting.
Implications:
Local Agenda 21:
Measures to reduce reliance on car use and encourage alternative means of transport are specifically aimed at promoting a better quality environment.
Equal Opportunities:
The need of people with disabilities is recognised throughout the document.
Crime & Disorder:
It is recognised that, to encourage greater use of public transport, walking and cycling, a safer environment needs to be created and maintained.
Best Value and Best Practice:
The strategies and project are aimed at improving choice and quality of life.
Financial/Legal/Personnel:
Much officer time has and will be required in negotiating with Northumberland County Council, preparing Local Transport Plans and pursuing funding.
Recommendation:
To consider the report and invite Members to submit schemes, which meet the criteria for inclusion in the 5 Year Programme which, will be submitted to Northumberland County Council later this year.
12. FUTURE OPERATION OF CAR PARKING REVIEW WORKING GROUP
Report Author: Rob Marriner, Director of Environment Tel No (01289) 301820 email: ram@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Car Parking Review Working Group tasks completed
• Group should be dissolved and functions accepted by Policy (Environment) Committee
Purpose:To seek the agreement of Members to the dissolution of the Car Parking Review Working Group due to the completion of its chief objectives.
Report:
Members are aware that a number of task specific working groups have been established in order to undertake particular pieces of work and to report to their main committee. In the case of the Car Parking Review Working Group, this was originally constituted under the Policy (Corporate Services and Regeneration) Committee, however changes in the constitution have resulted in this changing to the Policy (Environment) Committee.
At the last meeting of the Group on 26th July 2004 after consideration of its Terms of Reference the Group agreed that its substantive work had been completed. It was therefore agreed unanimously that this should be reported to this Committee and whilst members wished to make themselves available in future should the Group be reconstituted, it should be dissolved and its functions be accepted by this Committee. In particular members requested that the progress of negotiations between English Heritage and the Council regarding Castlegate Car Park be reported to the Policy (Environment) Committee.
The Leader has expressed a view that Policy (Corporate Services and Regeneration) Committee may wish to form a Working Group tasked with identification of potential new sites for car parking provision. The responsibility for such a task would remain under the control of Policy (Corporate Services and Regeneration) Committeeuntil any new car park is to become part of the service provision.
Recommendation:
That the Car Parking Review Working Group be dissolved and its functions accepted by the Policy (Environment) Committee.
13. FUTURE USAGE OF THE PARADE CAR PARK, BERWICK-UPON-TWEED
Report Author: Rob Marriner, Director of Environment Tel No (01289) 301820 email ram@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Car Parking Review Working Group recommend introduction of long term parking to one half of the Parade car park
• Cost of works required estimated to be £250
Purpose:To consider a recommendation of the Car Parking Review Working Group to introduce long term parking in half of the Parade car park.
Report:
Members may be aware that in April 2002 the Parade car park was changed from wholly long term parking to wholly short term, for no longer than three hours.
At the time of introduction it was intended that this would satisfy an unfulfilled demand for short term parking which may be required by those shopping and encourage those parking for longer periods, such as those working in town, to park in alternative locations.
Since the change was introduced there has been a significant increase in income from the ticket machines at the Parade. It is however difficult to make a direct comparison as many long-term users would have been season ticket holders.
At the last meeting of the Car Parking Review Working Group it was agreed to recommend that half of the Parade car park should be returned to long term parking, and that this impact be kept under review in light of the improvements being made in Marygate, which will reduce the number of short term parking spaces in central Berwick
The practical effect of such a change will require the remarking of the car park to differentiate the two charges and the identification of ticket machines to ensure that the appropriate charge is levied. It has been estimated that the cost of these works will be approximately £250, which will be found from within existing budgets.
Recommendation:
To consider the recommendation of the Car Parking Review Working Group to introduce long term parking to one half of the Parade car park.
14. AUTOMATIC PUBLIC CONVENIENCE PROVISION IN BERWICK TOWN CENTRE UPDATE REPORT
Report Author: Lynda Colston, Technical Officer Tel No (01289) 301824 email lc@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
Summary:
• Provision of two Automatic Public Conveniences proposed for Berwick town centre.
• Automatic Public Convenience Provision Contract tendered and subsequently awarded to Healthmatic Ltd.
• Proposed opening of Automatic Public Conveniences in early 2005.
Purpose:
To update Members on the current situation regarding the provision of two Automatic Public Conveniences (APC’s) in Berwick town.
Report:
Members will recall that a report was presented to the 26th November 2003 Policy (Environment) Committee, recommending the procurement of APC’s for Berwick town centre. A budget for this was subsequently built-in to the Borough public convenience provision budget.
The estimated costs were:
• £20,000 per year for a 20 year contract: thus, £40,000 per year for 20 years (two APC’s), = £800,000 in total;
• Site preparation of £5,000 - £10,000 per unit, dependant on location and proximity of services, = maximum £20,000.
• Total: £820,000
Th estimated savings and income generated are:
• Each unit will generate approximately £2,000 per annum; thus £4,000 for two units, = £80,000 over 20 years;
• The Woolmarket site could provide six car parking spaces, at £600 per year (all six sites), = £12,000 over 20 years;
• The You’re Welcome scheme had an operating budget of £5,100,but has now ceased, = £102,000
• Total: £194,000
The APC Tender contract was created early 2004 and published on 23rd March in the Official Journal of European Community (OJEC). Five companies had previously shown interest in tendering for the Contract, and the Information and Tendering Procedure was issued to JC Decaux UK Ltd, Healthmatic Ltd, Aluline Ltd, Modulayr Ltd, and Danfo (UK) Ltd on 24th March.
Tenders were received from Healthmatic Ltd, JC Decaux UK Ltd, and Aluline Ltd by the closing date of 18th May 2004 and were opened at noon that day. The Director of Environment and Borough Solicitor completed the evaluation exercise on 28th May and, after consideration of such factors as compliance with specification, track record, financial status, Health & Safety management, and delivery date/implementation, the Contract was awarded to Healthmatic Ltd.
A meeting was held on 24th June with Piers Dibben, Managing Director of Healthmatic Ltd, with the Director of Environment, Principal Environmental Health Officer and the Property and Housing Senior Technical Officer. The Wessex unit was described, and detailed technical information was then sent to the Senior Technical Officer, Brian Weatherhead. The anticipated project time, from initial pre-installation works (planning, building regs, permits, etc) to the Wessex units opening to the public, is potentially 22 weeks. Unit opening is proposed for early 2005, dependent on permissions, external works (electricity, water, waste), and demolition of the existing Woolmarket conveniences.
One APC is to be sited at Woolmarket, once the present building has been demolished, without reducing the potential number of available car parking spaces (i.e. 6).
With regard to the Policy (Environment) Committee report of 7th November 2003, Golden Square and Bridge Street Car Park sites have now been investigated and found to be unsuitable. Transco have advised that the installation of an APC at Golden Square will affect their gas supply apparatus, and the Bridge Street Traders Association was opposed to their car park being used. Therefore, the siting of the second APC has been proposed for The Maltings car park, and investigations are currently being carried out.
To ensure that some facilities are available in the town, the renovation works at Castlegate will be delayed until the first APC is installed and operating.
Implications:
Local Agenda 21:
The proposal will result in the basic needs of some people within central Berwick being met and produce an improvement in the local environment making the town more attractive to residents and visitors.
Crime and Disorder:
The provision of APC’s will result in the reduction of anti-social behaviour, and each unit contains anti-vandal sensors to minimise acts of vandalism.
Best Value and Best Practice:
The proposal will result in improvements in service delivery and increased accessibility, complying with the Disability Discrimination Act. Both units are totally automatic, fully serviced, and energy efficient.
Financial/Legal/Personnel:
Healthmatic costs for two units, over a 20-year lease, are:
Capital £12,000 (initial works and installation) this provision is included in the Gf capital programme.
Revenue 2004/05 £9,213 (cleaning and maintenance for 3 months, Jan –Mar 05).
Revenue 2005/06 £36,855 per annum (cleaning and maintenance)
These prices include 365 days per year maintenance operation and daily cleaning of internal floors, walls, and surfaces; external walls; and the replenishing of consumables (i.e. soap, paper towels, bin bags, etc).
There is a 10-year break clause without penalty and a performance bond of £6,000.
Members are reminded that £34,000 pa was included in the Budget from 2004/05 for leasing costs. The costs of re-opening Woolmarket in 2004 and first year costs of the APCs are likely to lead to an underspend of approximately £9,000 this year. However an adjustment to budgets will be considered once final costs for Woolmarket are known.
In future years the net running costs are estimated to be £32,855 (leasing less income) and therefore within budget.
Recommendation:
To note the report.
15. SERVICE PLAN – ENVIRONMENT DIRECTORATE
Report Author: Rob Marriner, Director of Environment Tel No (01289) 301820, email ram@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk Helen Bury, Head of Property and Housing Tel No (01289) 301830, Ross Buchanan, Principal Environmental Health Officer Tel No (01289) 301835, Chris Budzynski, Environmental Maintenance Manager Tel No (01289) 301810, Gary McBride, Transport and Environmental Enforcement Manager (01289) 301862
Summary:
• Presents Service Plans covering Environment Directorate
• Asks for comments
Purpose:
*** To present an improved service plan for the Environmental Health and Enforcement Service and to outline the proposed programme for further development of plans within the Environment Directorate.
Report:
Members will recall that during March and April reports were considered by Policy Committees which dealt with the service plans for each Directorate within the Council. Although in line with the interim report from the Comprehensive Performance Assessment team of inspectors, a common format had been adopted for all three reports it was identified that the documents should be further developed to provide a consistent approach and to link policy and actions to budgetary provision. In addition, service standards, including corporate standards, are set out, again at the suggestion of the inspectors.
Members will recall that there is a requirement to produce a separate plan for the enforcement of food safety, which is in compliance with the National Framework Agreement issued through the Food Standards Agency. This document should be considered as part of a single planning process although it is enclosed as a separate document. Similarly a separate plan for health and safety has been produced and adopted during the year.
The drafting of the Housing Business Plan has recently been completed and following consultation with the Tenants Customer Panel and the Stock Options Working Group this will be presented to this Committee at its October Meeting. Other than detailed financial forecasting and action planning and prioritisation of resources, the Business Plan replicates and, to an extent, updates the content of the Service Plan adopted earlier in the year. The Business Plan 2003 has recently been considered “fit for purpose” by Government Office for the North East. With its close links with corporate strategy, regional and local priorities, our objective is to ensure this standard is maintained as part of this years business planning process.
The appointment of the Transport and Environmental Enforcement Manager brings together another set of services which will be subject to further service plan development. However the officer has been initially collecting information regarding existing services and will therefore prepare a plan for presentation at the October Committee.
The Environmental Maintenance Manager has been unable to complete the development of the Service Plan due to other demands and will prepare this for presentation at the October meeting.
Officers hope that the spirit of Members’ wishes are captured in this approach and that provides evidence to external and internal people that this is a Council that is capable of developing its ideas and improving.
Implications:
None arising directly from this report. Individual services and projects will be further elaborated for Members when the need arises.
Recommendation:
Members are invited to consider the service plan and comment.
