Decisions

Summary of Decision

The Executive Director of Environment and Communities has taken the decision to award the dog services contract for collection and movement of stray and abandoned dogs in Westminster to Noah’s Ark Environmental for a period of 3 years with the option to extend up to a further period of 2 years.

Reasons for Decision

In 2023-24 stray dog collections increased across London by almost 50%. Whilst this did not significantly affect Westminster directly, it posed problems with trying to secure available kennel space to support rehoming. The decision therefore was taken to split the service contract into two l– collections and movements and kennelling and rehoming, as this would open the contract to wider suppliers who could provide one or both service. Noah’s Ark Environmental Services Ltd bid provided greater value for money that the incumbent’s service and therefore the decision was made to award them the contract.

It is recommended that:

Gill Matthews, Head of Homelessness Prevention is appointed as a

Director of WHIL and WHDL, subject to the provisions of the

Companies Act 2006.

The secretary of the Company is instructed to make the necessary

entries in the statutory books of the Company and to make the

necessary filings at Companies House.

Reasons for Decision:

Following the resignation of a previous director, to maintain quoracy and

enable decisions to be made, a new director appointment is required.

To appoint Cllr Iman Less to the vacant position on the Westminster Community Homes board.

It was recommended that:

Cllr Iman Less be appointed to the Board of Westminster Community Homes, subject to the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.

The secretary of the Company be instructed to make the necessary entries in the statutory books of the Company and to make the necessary filings at Companies House.

Reasons for Decision:

To ensure good governance and improve links between the company and the council.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality has approved the introduction of “End-User” charging for future Cashless Parking contracts, as well as the setting of a cap of 30p on End-User charges per transaction with an Officer-led contract mechanism for reviewing and approving any increases in that cap over time to allow for effective contract management and good service-delivery.

Reasons for Decision

Currently the City Council absorbs the electronic payment’s transactional charge for those paying to park on street. However, the market has for some time been moving toward charging the customer (the “end user”) rather than the Local Authority. Officers strongly believe that the City Council must move to this model in future Cashless contracts This model will improve the competitive nature of the procurement while offering potential for greater choice for our customers.

The City Council’s policies are to encourage the use of active travel and public transport when moving about the City. These policies support greater health and wellbeing through increased activity and reduced pollution and greenhouse gases. While the additional transactional costs as a percentage of the average spend is not considered likely to change behaviour it is not fair to expect residents impacted by the pollution and poor air quality to fund a service dedicated to a type of transport use that the City Council wants to discourage.

Acquisition of a site in SW1

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved the below recommendations:

·       Acquisition of the freehold interest in Hopkinson House, 88 Vauxhall Bridge Road, London SW1V 2RW (subject to legal due diligence) for the price detailed in the confidential appendix.

·       Spend from the Temporary Accommodations acquisitions budget to meet the cost of this purchase.

·       Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to agree the terms of the purchase contract, following legal due diligence, and complete the acquisition at the approved figure.

Reason for Decision

The Council has a statutory obligation to provide housing for those in housing need and has established an ongoing programme of temporary accommodation acquisitions to meet increasing demand within Westminster. Hopkinson House is being purchased with intention to convert the building for use as temporary accommodation. It will deliver a minimum of 33 extra in-borough temporary accommodation units, as well as prevent the potential permanent loss of this longstanding social housing asset to the private housing sector.

Summary of Decision

The Executive Director for Finance and Resources has delegated authority to the Director of Property, in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and the Director of Law to approve the Council entering into a new lease and any ancillary legal agreements.

Reasons for Decision

The disposal is recommended, as the granting of the lease supports maintaining a valuable income that supports the General Fund and the terms negotiated provide the optimum social value and financial outcome for the Council.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Voluntary Sector has agreed to the below recommendations:

• To direct award a contract to Thrive Tribe Limited to deliver the Integrated Healthy Lifestyle Service from 1st January 2024 to 31st October 2024 at a cost of £1,720,246
• A waiver of the requirements under the Procurement Code to conduct a competitive tender exercise regarding the above contract.
• Further investment of £102,602 into the Integrated Healthy Lifestyle Service, for 6 months, between 1st May to 31st October 2024 to provide an enhance stop smoking offer to be funded from the Local Stop Smoking Service and Support Grant.

Reasons for Decision

A direct award is required to allow sufficient time to conclude the procurement process and to mobilise the new contract without disrupting current service delivery. The Office for Health Improvement and Disparity (OHID) has provided additional investment over the next 5 years until 2029, via the LSSSSG, to enhance local stop smoking services and support.  OHID has set an expectation that this enhanced service will commence from 1 April 2024. Thrive Tribe, the incumbent provider, is best placed to incorporate this enhanced offer into the current service without delay.

Summary of Decision

The Executive Director for Resources, in consultation with the Executive Director for Environment & Communities and the Cabinet Member for Communities, has approved the allocation of £260,865 to meet the 2024/25 in-year operational costs of Charing Cross Library mini-hub and Victoria Library mini-hub.

Reasons for Decision

Delivering the mini-hubs was approved by the Community Hubs Spotlight Leadership Group in February 2024, after the conclusion of the 2024/25 budget process. The Charing Cross and Victoria Library mini-hubs will pilot the community hubs concept and explore opportunities for delivering hubs from Libraries. This will shape the wider Community Hubs programme and Libraries transformation agenda, and respond to the needs of local communities in central and south Westminster

Summary of Decision

This decision is being taken to approve a payment in relation to the neighbouring owner of 42 Ebury Bridge Road to release their rights of Light.

Reasons for Decision

As part of the Ebury Bridge Estate Renewal project a number of neighbouring properties’ Rights of Light (RoL) are impacted. This decision will conclude negotiations with a neighbouring owner impacted by Phase 2 of the project.

Summary of Decision

The Rating Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations enclosed in the report.

Background Information

The Rating Advisory Panel is an advisory body of elected members.

The Rating Advisory Panel considers applications for NNDR Discretionary and Hardship relief and makes recommendations to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform. The Cabinet Member is then asked to determine the applications for Discretionary and Hardship relief having regard to the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel.

The Localism Act 2011, which came into effect on 1 April 2012, amends Section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 to allow local authorities to grant Discretionary reliefs to any ratepayer, subject to the European rules on State Aid. This relief is known as a ‘Local Discount’.

Approval of recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) Review Panel meeting on 11 June 2024

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 11 June 2024.

Reasons for Decision

The Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in Appendix A, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.

Summary of Decision

The Executive Director for Regeneration, Economy and Planning has approved the signing of the updated Unilateral Undertaking which changes the Private Homes to Social Rent and one additional Intermediate Rent Home, and has moved the Social Homes from the General Fund to the HRA as per the Cabinet Members’ Approval for the Appropriation of Land. The Executive Director has also given approval to sign the lease with Westminster Housing Development Ltd (Westminster Builds) for the 35 Intermediate Homes, subject to Cabinet Member approval.

Reasons for Decision

This will allow for the implementation of the Truly Affordable Housing Cabinet Paper (approved on 11/10/2022) and the Appropriation of Land for Housing Purposes (approved on 14/12/21).

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Children and Public Protection has approved the below recommendations:

·       £870,646 is to be allocated to nurseries in Westminster City Council to develop a universal meal offer based on £2.55 per meal to nurseries for academic year 2024-25

·       £694,260 is to be allocated to state funded secondary schools in Westminster City Council to enable them to provide a Free Lunch Offer to resident pupils in KS3 (Years 7-9) for the academic year 2024-25

·       That the Nursery and KS3 offers are made permanent on condition that the GLA continues to fund the universal Primary Free School Meal Offer.

·       The Cabinet Member for Children and Public Protection also accepts the GLA’s allocation which is still to be confirmed. The Council will transfer this to primary schools based on a £3 per pupil per day for non-FSM pupils so that schools are able to implement a free lunch offer for all school pupils.

Reasons for Decision

When the universal Free School Meal offer for children attending state funded Primary Schools was originally implemented, the Cost-of-Living crisis was one of the greatest challenges facing residents and it continues to be a high priority. In Westminster, around a quarter of households across the city (approximately 32,000 households) are particularly vulnerable to rises in living costs, with some people facing extreme hardship. The guarantee that children will have access to at least one meal a day is expected to improve the health and wellbeing for those currently experiencing food insecurity – bringing benefits for children’s growth and development and educational attainment, as well as mental health benefits for their families due to reducing concerns about food insecurity.

Summary of Decision

This report approves the allocation of £6,452 per annum for three years to AgeUK Westminster.

Reasons for Decision

This funding will support the delivery of the Breathe Easy Westminster group, a group which supports local residents with respiratory conditions, alongside their families, carers and friends.

Summary of Decision

This decision grants permission to enter into a wayleave agreement to Hyperoptic Ltd to install, maintain and repair fibre network equipment at the Carlton Dene development.

Reasons for Decision

Wayleave required to provide broadband connection to future residents and workers at the Carlton Dene development site.

Summary of Decision

That the Cabinet Member for Housing approves direct awards for the following:

·         Award of a contract for the provision of accommodation at Queen Mary & Chapter Street for women with complex mental health needs, to The Riverside Group Limited (company number IP030938)from 1^st January 2022 to 31^st December 2024 for the contract value of £2,036,565.08.

·         Award of a contract for the provision of hostel accommodation at Edward Alsop Court for men with complex needs requiring 24/7 support to Look Ahead Care and Support Limited(company number IP21004R) from 1^st April 2021 to 31^st March 2026 for the contract value of £3,416,304.

·         Award of a contract for the provision of hostel accommodation at King George’s hostel for men with complex needs requiring 24/7 support, to Single Homeless Project (The) (company registration number 01741926) from 1^st April 2023 to 31^st March 2026 for the contract value of £2,198,172.

·         Award of a contract for the provision of the move on and resettlement service, to St Mungo Community Housing Association (Company number: 8225808 Charity number – 1149085) from 1^st October 2021 to 31^st March 2026 for the contract value of £3,237,156.

·         Award of a contract for the provision of women’s safe space service, to St Mungo Community Housing Association (Company number: 8225808 Charity number – 1149085) from 1^st October 2021 to 31^st March 2025 for the contract value of £2,292,175.

·         Award of a contract for the provision of assessment and reconnection services at Harrow Road, to St Mungo Community Housing Association (Company number: 8225808 Charity number – 1149085) from 1^st April 2020 to 31st March 2026 for the contract value of £4,277,437.

·         Award of a contract for the provision of an assessment centre at Passage House, to Passage 2000 (Company number 03885593, Charity number –1079764)  from 1^st April 2020 to 31^st March 2026 for the contract value of £4,630,089.

·         Award of a contract for Housing First provision, to St Mungo Community Housing Association (Company number: 8225808 Charity number – 1149085)from 1^st April 2022 to 31^st March 2026 for the contract value of £2,404,554.

·       Award of a contract for accommodation at Dean Court and London Hotel, from AA Accommodation Services Limited (trading variously as Primus Properties, Dean Court Hotel and The London Hotel) (company number 11688672) from 1^st September 2022 (the service at London Hotel to commence on 1^st September 2023) to 31^st March 2025 for the contract value of £2,439,391 (inclusive of VAT as VAT is applicable to these services).

·         Award of a contract for accommodation at St Giles Hotel, from St Giles Hotel Ltd (company number 02954321)from 1^st April 2022 to 31^st March 2025 for the contract value of £4,562,056 (inclusive of VAT as VAT is applicable to these services).

·         Award of a contract for security and concierge services from Critico Security (LDN) Ltd (company registration number 11842015) from 1^st April 2022 to 31^st March 2025 for the contract value of £1,667,194.

·         Award of a contract for complex needs to Church Army (company registration number 00037169) from 1 April 2018 to 31^st March 2025 for the contract value of £1,810,000. 

Reasons for decision

The recommendations are to directly award contracts until March 2025, with a number of accommodation-based services operating to March 2026, with the option to terminate on six months’ notice (3 months’ notice for harrow road) ending no earlier than 31 March 2025. These contract awards are to ensure all services currently delivered under implied terms, are regularised with a signed contract in place. This is to ensure transparency and contractual agreement on the delivery of the service specification, payment terms and terms and conditions of service.

The recommended contract duration aligns to the current 3-year rough sleeping initiative (RSI) grant funded settlement from the department of levelling up, housing and communities (DLUHC) and crucially allows time for the development of a commissioning plan. This plan will be co-designed with the voluntary and community sector and users by experience, informed by the Westminster Housing Commission’s recommendations and linked to the homelessness and rough sleeping strategy and will set the future commissioning intentions, models of delivery and opportunities for partnership working. The commissioning plan will inform a programme of retendering during 2024, with new service provision commencing from April 2025 onwards.

Accommodation based services having contracts in place until 31 March 26 with a break clause at 31 March 25, will allow for a rolling programme of retendering. It allows for accommodation based services to have a co-terminus end date to enable recommissioning and also recognises the need to have longer mobilisation periods for accommodation-based services. An asset review will be undertaken to look at the different types of accommodation based supported accommodation in the borough and how this can be recommissioned going forward. It is not feasible to in-source these services for the period remaining before the council goes out to tender.

Continuity of service provision during this period of commissioning design, engagement and then retendering is vital for this vulnerable cohort of service users, without which they may experience homelessness and increased vulnerability.

NNDR Localism Relief for Meanwhile On Activations Fit-out periods

Summary of Decision

The reports seeks approval for the application of NNDR Localism Relief for the Meanwhile On programme to be expanded to include the fit-out period/s of stores.

Reasons for Decision

The extension of NNDR relief will ensure that the Council can be flexible in responding quickly to market needs and unlocking space opportunities.

Summary of Decision

The Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning has approved the surrender of the existing commercial lease to the Council and to approve a compensation payment to be paid to Unique Pub Properties Limited the registered leasehold proprietor of the Lord High Admiral Pub, 95 Church Street, for the sum stated in confidential report attached + reasonable legal fees for the negotiation a deed of surrender and reasonable surveyors fees for the negotiation of deed of surrender and compensation fees (in line with CPO guidelines).

Reasons for Decision

This decision will precipitate the removal of a formal CPO objection and yield up a vacant unit to facilitate the demolition and development of Site A.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Climate, Ecology and Culture has approved the delegation of authority for WCC Culture Fund spending decisions below £250,000 to the Executive Director, Regeneration, Economy and Planning. The Cabinet Member has also approved that all Culture Fund individual spending decisions are to be made in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Climate, Ecology and Culture through both written and in-person briefings.

Reasons for Decision

A Cabinet Member Report was approved in November 2022 by the Cabinet Member for Young People, Learning and Leisure entitled Repurposing of unallocated MyWestminster funding towards a dedicated budget for cultural activity. The Cabinet Member Report recommended repurposing unallocated MyWestminster funding towards a dedicated cultural budget to fund cultural activity throughout the city’s communities as part of the council’s strategy to create a fairer Westminster, nurturing the wellbeing of local residents while enabling both the visitor economy and local cultural organisations to thrive.The purpose of this Cabinet Member Report is to formalise the decision-making process of allocating funds, described in the November 2022 Culture Fund Cabinet Member Report, by delegating final spending decisions on individual Culture Fund programmes to the Executive Director, Regeneration, Economy and Planning.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Housing Services has approved:

1)    the direct award of a contract for the delivery of a Housing Management System (HMS) to MRI Software Limited for a period of two-years from 11 October 2024 with two additional one-year optional renewals (2+1+1) at total value of £4,798,220.40

Reasons for Decision 

Prior to a full reprocurement of HMS circa 2026 – 2028 this direct award for an initial period of two years will allowsufficient time to complete a comprehensive data cleanse and needs analysis that will inform the future reprocurement of HMS.

Additionally, with the introduction of new reporting requirements through the Social Housing (Regulation) Act from April 2024 there is a need to provide system continuity for staff to ensure compliance with requirements.

Reimplementation of the current vendors updated software (MRI Housing Enterprise) is seen as the best solution for the service. A new contract of up to 4 years with the existing vendor would allow for a new instance of the latest product to be set up alongside Orchard.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Children, Communities and Public Protection has approved the renewal of the borough wide PSPO for the control of street drinking until 23:59hr on the 24 June 2027 on the same terms. The Cabinet Member has also approved the renewal of the borough wide PSPO for dog control until 23:59hr on the 24 June 2027, and to vary to extend this into 5 new geographical areas as set out in the report, on the same terms.

Reasons for Decision

On 16 March 2018, the Cabinet Member gave approval to create new controlled drinking and dog control Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO) for 3-years.  On 24 June 2021 the PSPOs were renewed. These orders expire on 24 June 2024 and this paper makes recommendations to renew and vary the orders for a 3-year period commencing on 25 June 2024 and expiring on 24 June 2027.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has approved the following Neighbourhood CIL bids, details of which are set out in this report:

1.     V.O. Curations Additional Workspaces

2.     Shop and Donate Store and Community Café

3.     Bishops Bridge Parapets

4.     Somerset House Street Furniture

5.     Grand Junction Adding Access

6.     Soho Monitoring Study

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has approved with conditions the following Neighbourhood CIL bids, details of which are set out in this report:

7.     St Saviour’s War Memorial Restoration

8.     Soho Heritage Audit

Reasons for Decision 

To ensure robust and effective expenditure and reporting in line with the Planning Act (2008) and the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010 (as amended) and in accordance with the council’s strategic priorities, the revised CIL Spending Policy Statement (2022), and the council’s frameworks for resource allocation and management.

Summary of Decision

That the Director approves the taking of all steps to secure the making, confirmation and implementation of the Order of the Compulsory Purchase Order powers which includes to:

·       Negotiate, agree terms and enter into agreements with affected parties including agreements for the withdrawal of blight notices and/or the withdrawal of objections to the Order and/or undertakings not to enforce the Order on specified terms, including (but not limited to) where appropriate seeking the exclusion of land from the Order, making provision for the payment of compensation and/or relocation.

London Power Networks is an affected party and has objected to the confirmation of the Order.  The Agreement is necessary to remove their objection.

Reasons for Decision

London Power Networks is an affected party and has objected to the confirmation of the Order.  The Agreement is necessary to remove their objection.

Summary of Decision

That the Executive Director grants Authority to engross the S106 Unilateral Undertaking (UU) for the Non-Material Amendment (NMA) on Ebury Phase 2, as delegated in the Cabinet Member Report dated 16 January 2023. 

Reasons for Decision

To progress the engrossment of the S106 UU to enable the related NMA to make the s73 application implementable due to changes in the Fire regulations and to resultant minor amendments.

Summary of Decision

That the Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development approve with conditions the following Neighbourhood CIL bids, details of which are set out in this report:

1.     Denbigh Street Piazza Public Realm Improvement

2.     Southampton Street Public Realm Enhancements Design and Feasibility Study

3.     Holcroft Memorial Portraits

4.     St Anne’s Garden Accessibility Scheme

Reasons for Decision 

To ensure robust and effective expenditure and reporting in line with the Planning Act (2008) and the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010 (as amended) and in accordance with the council’s strategic priorities, the revised CIL Spending Policy Statement (2022), and the council’s frameworks for resource allocation and management.

Summary of Decision:

The Rating Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in Appendix A.

Background Information

The Rating Advisory Panel is an advisory body of elected members.

The Rating Advisory Panel considers applications for NNDR Discretionary and Hardship relief and makes recommendations to the Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform. The Cabinet Member is then asked to determine the applications for Discretionary and Hardship relief having regard to the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel.

The Localism Act 2011, which came into effect on 1 April 2012, amends Section 47 of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 to allow local authorities to grant Discretionary reliefs to any ratepayer, subject to the European rules on State Aid. This relief is known as a ‘Local Discount’.

Summary of Decision:

To award Cost of Living projects amounting to £623,221.

Reason for Decision:

To ensure ongoing vital support to residents through the cost of living crisis.

Summary of Decision

The current contract for cleansing and maintenance of Automatic Public Conveniences with Danfo UK Limited is due to expire on 31 May 2024, and this report therefore recommended proceeding with a combined Works and Services contract to Danfo UK Limited.  The Works element of supply and installation is expected to occur over the first 12-24 months.  The Services element includes cleansing, compliance, maintenance, and management of the facilities, and are expected to occur for the full five-year period.

Reasons for Decision

The award of a new Works and Services contract will allow the continuity of services as well as the progress of the overall strategy for the service, and the overall quality of the winning bid aligns with the service strategy.

Summary of Decision

This decision approves entering a Lease of Ground Floor Level electricity substation at 4 Tavistock Road, London W11 1BA with London Power Networks PLC

Reason for Decision

This decision is required to facilitate the construction works at the Westmead site. The sub-station will serve the new development which will house 65 affordable homes on the site.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has:

1.     Approved the debts over £100k as set out in section 5 for write off, having taken all appropriate action, and

2.     Noted the amounts written off under officer delegated authority, as shown in paragraph 6.4.

Reasons for Decision 

The recommendation to write-off the amounts detailed in this report is proposed as all other avenues available to the Council for the recovery of these debts have been exhausted, including, where appropriate, the issue of court and distress proceedings.

Recommendations  

That the Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform:  

1.               Approves each of the proposals for the allocation of the £1,951,507 Household Support Fund outlined in section 5 of this report to the city’s most vulnerable residents.  

2.               Delegates authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to flex each of the processes, including the level of funding allocated and voucher amounts, inorder to ensure the Household Support Fund is fully utilised in line with its conditions.  

Reasons for Decision  

The recommended approach set out in Section 5 of this report takes into account the limited funding envelope and provides help to those most at risk due to the crisis based on an analysis of need. It is in line with the government guidance for use of the Household Support Fund and is deliverable within the funding period. The approach also takes a balanced approach, providing a mixture of proactive and more general support.   

Approval to award main demolition contract for phases 2 and 3 of the Church Street Estate Site A.  

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters:

1.    has given authorisation to the Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy, and Planning (REP) to enter into a contract with Keltbray Built Environment Ltd to carry out demolition and associated works to Church Street Site A.

2.    has approved expenditure to complete demolition of Church Street Site A.

3.    That the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters delegates authority to the Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning to approve and enter into other agreements and property documents including but not limited to leases, warranties, substation leases, wayleaves, licences, deeds of easement, asset protection agreements, section 104 agreements, section 185 agreements and any other statutory agreements and utilities agreements in connection with ancillary works required to facilitate the demolition activity and construction related to the demolition worksfor site A.

Reasons for Decision

Church Street is a vibrant, complex area but despite this, it has issues of social and economic exclusion, which results in poorer health outcomes and lower than average rates of economic activity, than neighbouring areas. As such the Council has ambitious plans and is committed to significant investment to regenerate the area into a model of social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

The masterplan embellishes the real character of Church Street and the importance of the local community in delivering transformational change, and four drivers have been established which are: Health and wellbeing; Homes; Market and enterprise; and Making connections.

The proposed development will also contribute the well-being of the Council’s area in the following ways:

· Economic Well-Being of the area demonstrated by engaging residents, commercial occupiers and local stakeholders in a comprehensive consultation process that has provided the community with the opportunity to have a stake in the scenarios being considered for the future of Church Street.

· Social Well-Being of the area by promote opportunity and fairness providing more affordable homes to create a vibrant community through the creation of high-quality homes and landscaping.

· Environmental Well-Being of the area through the creation of a healthier, greener environment that connects better to surrounding communities. This scheme will enable all our communities to share in the economic prosperity of the area, through protecting and enhancing the unique heritage of the neighbourhood. This will ensure the site will fit well into the surrounding neighbourhood and remains a great place to live, work and visit both now and in the future.

Summary of Decision

Grants authority to sign all Designer, Subcontractor and Main Contractor Collateral Warranties on the Adpar Street Carpark, Torridon Carpark and Queens Park Court Carpark Projects.

Reason for Decision

The Cabinet Member Decision dated 30 August 2022 delegated authority to the Executive Director.

Summary of Decision

This decision grants the authority to issue an Invitation to Tender (ITT) for the provision of “Energy Company Management Services” to include, but not be limited to, cover and acceptance of systems on residential block, estate and external services including the energy facility.  

These services are to be procured for Ebury Bridge Estate Regeneration Scheme Phase 1, 2 and 3 via an open procurement procedure accompanied by information for qualitative selection that is required by Westminster City Council (WCC).

Reasons for Decision

To progress the procurement of the Energy Management Company Services and issue the live tender on or before the 19^th April 2024.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Climate, Ecology and Culture has approved the nomination for a Westminster Commemorative Green Plaque to mark the site of the Soho Poly at 16 Riding House Street.

Reasons for Decision

From 1972 to 1990, The Soho Poly was one of the most famous fringe venues as home to the Soho Theatre Company. The company moved to Dean Street in 1990 where it remains one of London’s most successful theatres to this day. 

Church Street Site A – Appointment of Joint Venture Development Partner.

Summary of Decision

This is a decision delegated from the Council’s Cabinet on 29 February 2024 to the Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning in consultation with the Executive Director of Democracy, Law and People, Executive Director of Finance and Resources and Executive Director for Environment, Climate and Public Protection in the Council’s capacity as landowner. (as counterparty to the Development Agreement and other related agreements) and as a member of the LLP to:

1.           Finalise and enter into all the legal and financial documents required to set up the JV LLP and to proceed with the Church Street Site A development including all legal agreements.

2.           This decision also includes the approval of the initial Business Plan as incorporated within the Members Agreement and the appointment of the Council’s representatives of the JV.

Reasons for Decision

Cabinet approved a preferred bidder 29 February 2024. The legal documents have now been finalised with the preferred bidder since the Cabinet’s approved decision. All legal documents are now in a final form for the Council to execute which includes the initial Business Plan and the appointment of the Council’s representatives on the JV LLP.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has approved:

1.     The award of a concession contract to Arbeit Project Studios Limited to deliver services from LAES; 

2.     The grant of a lease to Arbeit Project Studios Limited on commercial arrangements asset out in Part B of this report;  

3.     The use of grant funding from the Strategic Investment Pot (SIP) Fund in the sum of £200,000 to Arbeit Project Studios Limited to undertake CAT B fit out works to LAES; 

4.     Authorisation of Legal Services to execute the Lisson Arches Enterprise Space concession contract and lease for a period of 15 years. 

Reasons for Decision

A decision is required for the Council to meet its planning obligation to lease the Lisson Arches Enterprise Space (LAES) to a workspace operator, who in turn will facilitate the use of the space as affordable workspace.

This decision reflects approvals for the granting of a lease for a period of up to 15 years and an associated service concession contract which will fulfil the requirements of the planning commitments and support regeneration and economic development in Church Street area.

Summary of Decision

That the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Voluntary Sector approves the award of a grant to Paddington Development Trust (a charitable company limited by guarantee with company number 03652559) for a term of 10 years and a total value of £2.48 million to assist PDT to run and maintain the Stowe Centre. 

Reasons for Decision 

Implementing a strategic grant arrangement with the Stowe Centre is in line with Westminster's commitment to supporting community anchor organisations. This particular arrangement will bring parity to the council’s approach to funding strategic VCS partners in the north and south of the borough. It will support the Stowe Centre to be run to the best standard and to continue acting as a community centre for local groups and organisations.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved:

1.     The contract award for the appointment of a Landscape Architect to East Architecture, Landscape, Urban Design Limited (the Consultant) in respect of developing RIBA Stages 2-6 for Paddington Canalside and Paddington Green.

2.     The overall sum of £728,260 sought against the existing Paddington Capital budget, including: contract award for the Consultant to deliver RIBA Stage 2-6 (£586,190), Highways Stage 1 – Feasibility study (£62,070) and associated Council’s own internal costs (£80,000).

Reason for Decision

A Cabinet Member decision is required to enable Westminster City Council to enter into a contract with East Architecture Landscape Urban Design Ltd, the successful tenderer, to develop RIBA Stages 2-6 for Little Venice Canalside and Paddington Green and its associated surveys.

In a briefing held on 17 July 2023 the Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development agreed to proceed with the procurement of consultants to develop the design for Little Venice Canalside (Stone Wharf and Rembrandt Gardens) and Paddington Green (including St Mary’s Churchyard Gardens).

Approval to use the vacant propertieswithin Penn House and the wider Regeneration Area for Temporary Accommodation (TA) for homeless householdsprior to demolition and commencement of construction. The use of Penn House and other vacant properties for Temporary Accommodation is in line with the Fairer Housing pillar to tackle homelessness within the Borough. 

1.  Summary of Decision

1.1 That the Cabinet Member delegated authority to the Executive Director of Environment, Climate and Public Protection to:

(a)  Approve the use of Penn House, Gayhurst House and 6-12 Lilestone Street for TA under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996.

(b)  Review the rent levels for lettings and decide how these are split between the Housing Revenue Account and General Fund (“GF”).

(c)   Award and approve necessary funds to accommodate and refurbish Penn House to comply with TA letting standards, as well as for Gayhurst House and Lilestone Street once these costs are known.

(d)  Enter into a leasing arrangement with a Registered Provider that will then lease Penn House, 6-12 Lilestone Street and Gayhurst House back to the Council for use as TA.

(e)  The Cabinet Member also noted this report provides an assessment of the financial viability for operating Penn House as TA. This is because a quote has been sought for the refurbishment, and the timescales for operating the block as TA are known. This information is less readily available for the units at Gayhurst and Lilestone Street. Nonetheless, an identical viability test would be undertaken when those units are ready to be converted, and authority delegated to the Executive Director of Finance & Resources to approve the allocation of the capital funds required to proceed.

2.     Reason for Decision

2.1 This report seeks to delegate authority to the Executive Director of Environment, Climate and Public Protection to use vacant properties at Penn House, Gayhurst House and 6-12 Lilestone Street as TA. 

TA is sought for a period of at least three years for the above blocks prior to demolishing and commencing the development of the Lilestone Street site. Residents of Penn House recently completed a successful relocation to Daventry House. Gayhurst House currently exhibits a small number of voids. As development plans cement, a void strategy will also be required for these homes if more homes are purchased or sold. In addition, vacant social homes will need to be outlined to understand wider renewal impacts.

By way of this decision, the Council aims to make best use of its assets whilst Penn House, Gayhurst House and 6-12 Lilestone Street are vacated. This council also aims to tackle key issues around homelessness, in line with the Fairer Housing pillar of the Councils Fairer Westminster Vision.

All three blocks will provide good quality in-borough accommodation available for vulnerable single homeless people and larger homeless families. Throughout the period, provisions at Penn House will have staff on site 24 hours per day, with additional support provided to residents depending upon need.

1.              Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member:

1.1   approved the principle of the Council conducting a lease renewal for new leasebetween HBull andSon (Textiles)Ltd andthe Mayorand theCitizens of the City of Westminster and entering into an Agreement For Lease (“AFL”) between the same parties, on the terms set out in this report; and

1.2     delegates authority to the Director of Corporate Property following consultation with the Executive Director of Housing, to approve the Council entering into two new leases and any ancillary legal agreements there to.

2.              Reasons for Decision

Subject toapproval, thelease renewaltogether withthe sideletter enablesthe Council to retain an anchor tenant on Church Street with a strong rental payment history and ensures the unit is let producing an income stream until SiteB isready fordemolition. Thisarrangement alsolimits theCouncil’s liability regarding future leaks.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing Services and the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, has approved the appropriation of the Council’s land at 300 Harrow Road shown edged blue in the plan attached at Appendix A (the Site) pursuant to section 232 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 from planning purposes to the purposes of Part II of the Housing Act 1985 (housing purposes).      

The Cabinet Member has delegated authority to the Executive Director for Regeneration, Economy and Planning in consultation with the Director of Law to deal with any necessary arrangements to record the appropriation of the Site for Housing purposes including the transfer of the land from the General Fund account to the HRA at the current red book value.

Reasons for Decision

Appropriation for housing purposes is required to properly account for the completed social rent homes at the Council’s development at 300 Harrow Road. Until the appropriation is complete, the homes can not be let to residents as the Council is required to hold all homes in the HRA.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved all four bids for funding and awards the total funding requested of £149,611, pending agreement to specific requirements set out in this report.

Reason for Decision

The Carbon Offset Fund (COF) finances projects that deliver tangible, quantifiable, and transparent carbon savings across Westminster. Four bids for funding were set out for consideration in this report. These were summarised and evaluated against the agreed criteria, set out in the report, and the Cabinet Member has agreed that they meet the criteria.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 19 March 2024.

Reasons for Decision

The Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in Appendix A, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.

Summary of Decision

1.              To approve the award of a contract for Building Fabric services to CBRE Managed Services Limited for a total period of 3 years from 01 June 2024 for the total sum of £3,218,416, with the option to extend for a further two years.

2.              To approve the award of a contract for Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing services to CBRE Managed Services Limited for total period of 3 years from 01 June 2024 for the total sum of £9,241,710, with the option to extend for a further two years. 

3.              To approve the award of a contract for Cleaning services to Pinnacle Housing Ltd for at total period of 3 years from 01 June 2024 for the total sum of £5,379,857, with the option to extend for a further two years.

4.              To approve the award of a contract for Security services to Goshen Limited for a total period of 3 years from 01 June 2024 for the total sum of £2,735,545, with the option to extend for a further two years. 

5.              To approve the award of a contract for the provision of maintenance and remedial services for Lifts to Precision Lift Services Limited for a total period of 3 years from 01 June 2024 for the total sum of £300,434, with the option to extend for a further two years.

Reasons for Decision 

The decision to award the new Facilities Management (FM) contracts is required to ensure that the Councils' various sites are maintained to a high standard, with all aspects of statutory compliance and Health and Safety meeting the required standards and regulations.  Sites include staff offices 64 Victoria Street parts occupied by the Council, all libraries including the Archive Centre and Reference Library, the Mortuary and adjacent Coroner’s Court, three Family Hubs, a Care Home, and a range of Depots.  The contracts do not generally apply to Schools as Schools are responsible for their premises or generally the Council’s Leisure Centres which are managed by the Council’s leisure operator.

The Council believe that it is the right decision to change the contract structure to improve service delivery and maximise performance levels.  Transferring to 5 individual contractual agreements will ensure that each supplier can focus on their core responsibilities and contractual obligations.

Each successful supplier has submitted a comprehensive proposal which outlines how they will deliver services to the standards required.  In additional, the commercial proposals received are in-line with expectations, providing value for money. 

Within each winning bid, beneficial Social Value commitments were reviewed and scored accordingly.  All commitments and benefits to the Council and its residents will be captured and monitored during supplier review meetings to ensure that outcomes are delivered on time and as expected.

All contracts will be managed in accordance with the Council’s processes to ensure that high standards are met and all KPIs adhered to.  It is not anticipated at this stage that additional resources will be required for contract management, but this will be kept under review.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved:

o    The authorisation of the Director of Highways to determine whether street trees should be felled, where they are subject to Section 96a of the Highways Act 1980, (the ‘duty to consult’).

o    That the Director of Highways may refer the decision on whether street trees should be felled, where they are subject to the duty to consult, to the Executive Director, Cabinet Member or Committee according to the specific circumstances of the case and/ or local or public interest.

o    In cases where the removal of a street tree is outside the scope of the duty to consult or is subject to an exemption within the legislation or guidance, that the decision on whether to fell a tree may be made by the Head of Arboricultural Services.

o    That the Head of Arboricultural Services may refer the decision on whether a street tree is outside the duty to consult, or is subject to an exemption, to the Director of Highways, according to the specific circumstances of the case and/ or local or public interest.

Reasons for Decision 

Removing street trees can be contentious.  Demonstrating that a tree is exempt from the duty to consult is likely to be subject to dispute and maybe subject to legal challenges on the decision making process.  As such, an agreed process is required. 

Summary of Decision

To approve the entering into an agreement for lease and the grant of a lease of the first floor of 20 Orange Street, London WC2 7EF to Gerald UK Limited for a term of five years on the terms set out in the exempt Appendix.

To delegate authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to make minor amendments to the heads of terms (non-financial) as required.

Reasons for Decision    

The office building at 20 Orange Street is a Council owned investment asset.  It has recently been the subject of a comprehensive refurbishment. The first floor was refurbished to a fully fitted Category A Plus standard.  The subject letting has been secured off the back of this refurbishment and will deliver a net annual revenue benefit of circa £0.233m (allowing for mitigation of void costs) for the duration of the lease.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the grant of a new lease to the tenant on the terms within the exempt Appendix A.

Reasons for Decision 

A Cabinet Member decision is required as the rent exceeds £125,000 per annum.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 12 March 2024 and determines the applications for NNDR Discretionary and Hardship relief set out in Appendix A.

Reasons for Decision

The Rating Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in Appendix A.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters has approved

·       Variation to Ward Williams Associates Professional Services Contract for Employers Agent Services to extend the contract term and increase the value by an additional £114,200 (total contract value including extension £344,200)

·       Variation to Arcadis LLP Professional Services Contract for Cost Consulting Services to extend the contract term and increase the value by an additional £35,050.70 (total contract value including extension £561,131.23)

Reasons for Decision

The Council appointed Arcadis LLP as Cost Consultant in 2020 to provide professional services for RIBA Stages 2 to 7 including supporting design development, procurement and delivery stages on the basis of the scheme being delivered in a single-phase.

Ward Williams Associates was subsequently appointed in as Employers Agent in 2022 to provide professional services from RIBA Stage 4 onwards including administering the Design and Build Contract for the redevelopment of the Balmoral Castle and Darwin House site on the basis of the scheme being delivered in a single phase

A variation to these two existing contracts is necessary to increase the value and duration of these contracts to reflect unforeseen value engineering work to address scheme viability, and to extend the programme duration to reflect  phased delivery.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality has approved the extension of the Residual Waste Treatment and Disposal Contract for waste incineration at SELCHP with Veolia (ES) UK Ltd. for a period of 8 years from 1^st April 2024 to 31^st March 2032

Reasons for Decision

The contract extension for this contract will enable the City Council to secure its future waste treatment needs at economically advantageous gate fees and comply with its legal duty to arrange for the treatment and disposal of waste. Due to the implementation of new national policy and legislation, the city council expects to recycle more of the waste it manages.

It will also allow for the continued direct delivery of residual waste to SELCHP and dry recyclables to the Southwark MRF which in turn ensures high levels of efficiency on the Contract for Waste and Recycling Collection, Street Cleansing and Ancillary Services. This contract also gives the council access to the supply of electricity from SELCHP to power its electric waste collection fleet at economically advantageous rates compared to purchasing this electricity on the retail market.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality has approved the award of theTreatment of Dry Recyclables to Veolia ES (UK) Ltd for three years; from 1st April 2024 to 31st March 2027.

Reasons for Decision

The award of both contracts will enable the City Council to secure its future waste treatment needs at economically advantageous gate fees and comply with its legal duty to arrange for the treatment and disposal of waste. Due to the implementation of new national policy and legislation, the city council expects to recycle more of the waste it manages.

It will also allow for the continued direct delivery of residual waste to SELCHP and dry recyclables to the Southwark MRF which in turn ensures high levels of efficiency on the Contract for Waste and Recycling Collection, Street Cleansing and Ancillary Services

This report follows on the North Paddington Year 1 Programme of works paper (2 October 2023) and outlines the progress of year 1; underspend and the recommended areas of spend for the Cabinet Member to approve.

Summary of Decision

To note the programme changes of the Year One Projects and Reprofiled Projects as detailed in Appendix 1, which are now scheduled to be delivered in Year 2 (2024/2025).

To approve the spend for the Additional Projects detailed in Appendix 2 and the Reprofiled Projects to Year 2 (2024/25).

To delegate authority to the Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy, and Planning in consultation with the Executive Director of Democracy, Law and People; the Executive Director of Housing and Commercial Partnerships; and the Executive Director of Environment, Climate and Public Protection, to deal with all matters in relation to delivery of the Additional Projects and Reprofiled Projects, including agreeing any commercial terms and entering into all associated legal agreements.

To delegate authority to the Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning to spend unallocated revenue staffing budget earmarked for the North Paddington Programme.

Reason(s) for Decision 

Approval is sought to enable the commencement of the revised delivery to include the Additional Projects and the Reprofiled Projects to enable the Council to make full use of the unallocated Year One funds.

Amendments to the Council’s existing 2023/24 NNDR Discretionary Relief guidelines for 2024/25.

Summary of Decision

To adopt a scheme of discretionary rate relief.

To adopt the revised National Non-Domestic Rates Discretionary Relief Guidelines as shown at Appendix A as a description of that scheme.

Reason for Decision 

The proposed guidelines at Appendix A will, by providing criteria to be considered when making decisions, assist with robust and consistent decision-making

Summary of Decision

The Executive Director, Regeneration, Economy and Planning has delegated authority to act on the activities listed in the Cabinet Member Report and section 3 of the Record of Officer Executive Decision to:

1. The Director of Regeneration and Development and

2. The Head of Development

Reasons for Decision

This decision will progress the Deeds of Release and Manual Payment Forms for the issue of the Rights of Light Compensation Payments

Summary of Decision:

To approve the implementation of the Compulsory Purchase Order powers which includes issuing the General Vesting Declaration notices and Notices to Treat and Notices of Entry in respect of the two plots of land.

Reasons for Decision:

On 5 October 2022, the Planning Inspectorate confirmed the Ebury Bridge Compulsory Purchase Order without modification.  The powers were sought to provide the Council with certainty that the scheme can be delivered without obstruction.

 In order for the project to progress in line with the agreed programme and costs for the delivery of Phase 2 of the regeneration scheme, a second General Vesting Declaration (GVD) is required to secure the GVD Land necessary for the construction of Building 5 on the Ebury Bridge Estate.  The GVD Land must be acquired by  27th March 2026.

The Council needs to commence the three month process of the GVD which involves issuing notices to the owners of the GVD Land. The initial steps of the CPO implementation can be made whilst negotiations around the acquisition of the GVD Land continues.  The process of issuing the GVD/Notices to Treat/Notices of Entry will reiterate the importance of engaging with the Council and completing the sales process.  Should the acquisition of the GVD Land complete before the end of the three-month process then the powers will not be required.

Summary of Decision

This report sought delegated approval to spend up to £249,600 of capital funding for Paddington Arts (Company number: 02224403) to proceed to the next stage of their redevelopment proposals. The project aims to provide a sustainable future for the charitable youth arts organisation, increase the number of young people engaged and supported each year and the provision of more cultural and creative performance, rehearsal, and work space.

Reasons for Decision

The Executive Director for Regeneration, Economy and Planning has apporved capital funding to Paddington Arts of up to £249,600 to complete RIBA Stage 4 of their development proposals and bring in additional external fundraising expertise to maximise match-funding for the scheme.

The Westminster Community Homes Business Plan 2024/25 was approved.

Summary of Decision

The Executive Director, Finance and Resources has awarded contracts for Property and Residential Leasehold Buildings insurance.

Reasons for Decision

Property insurance is required to provide financial protection for the Council’s Corporate, Commercial and Housing assets. Without insurance this would result in unacceptable and uncapped financial exposures to the Council. 

For Residential Leasehold Buildings the Council as freeholder, is obliged to arrange cover under the terms of the lease agreements

The Cabinet Member decision of 22 February 2024 delegated authority to award these contracts to the Executive Director, Finance and Resources.

The agreement covers the management by the supplier of payment to park in visitors parking spaces throughout the City of Westminster.  The Council seeks to extend the current agreement by six months.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality has approved the exercise of an option to extend by six months the contract with RingGo Limited for Cashless Parking from 1st April 2024 to 30th September 2024.

Reasons for Decision 

The contract extension is being sought because it will allow an appropriate period of time for the service to complete a full procurement with new contracts being procured to start from 1^st October 2024, when this extension will expire. As the original approval sought for the award was not considerate of the banking charges that do feature within the current contract, Cabinet Member approval is being sought to ensure that appropriate governance levels are in place considering current contractual spend.

Direct award to undertake surveys of high rise blocks in line with the Building Safety Act.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Housing Services has approved:

1.     The direct award for Structural Survey Services to Ridge and Partners LLP.

2.     The estimated cost for Stages 1 & 2 - £370,35 (including VAT), of which the cost to Council will be £219,851, including £19,026 unrecoverable leaseholder costs (including VAT) and the cost to leaseholders will be £150,500

3.     That works can proceed without leaseholder consultation, limiting leaseholder contribution to £250 per leasehold property.

Reasons for Decision

The Council is required to conduct structural surveys to higher risk, high-rise buildings within Westminster’s Housing portfolio in line with the Building Safety Act 2022.

This paper requests approval of a direct award to Ridge and Partners LLP to carry out those surveys, as well as estimated costs and that works can proceed without leaseholder consultation.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality has approved in principle the entering into a maintenance agreement in relation to the two parcels of land on Bishops Bridge Road (the Properties) as shown edged red on the plans attached in Appendix B1 and Appendix B2 of this report, and has delegated authority to the Director of City Highways to finalise the legal documentation for the maintenance agreement as required and approve the Council entering into the maintenance agreement.

Reasons for Decision

In respect of the recommendation to purchase the Properties, the May 2000 s106 agreement contained a requirement for the Council to serve notice on the developer (British Land) to acquire the land following completion of the bridge which occurred in 2006.  The Council served the notice on the Developer on 5 February 2007 however the transfer was not enacted. Despite the transfer not occurring, the Council have taken responsibility for the management and maintenance of the bridge/land since its completion. The (now two) owners of the land are seeking to regularise matters and transfer the land parcels in accordance with the terms of the S106 Agreement.  This will enable them to release the maintenance contribution to the Council, which they have been holding in reserve since 2006.

Appointment of Quantity Surveyor carrying out QS services for the Phase 2 of the Development 

1.     Executive Summary

1.1.         The regeneration of the Ebury Bridge Estate will provide more affordable housing and bring about the long-term physical, economic and social sustainability of the neighbourhood.

1.2.         The hybrid planning application for Ebury Phase 1 & 2 was originally approved on the 6^{th of} October 2021, with the amended application approved on the 21^{st of} July 2023.

1.3.         The proposed appointment of Stace LLP for Quantity Surveying services sought within this report is consistent with the capital budget approved by full Council on 8^th March 2021. Cabinet Member approval is required as the value of the consultancy contract is over £300,000 (excl. VAT).

1.4.         The appointment of a Quantity Surveyor is proposed to support RIBA Stage 4, 5 and demolition on Ebury Phase 2.

1.5.         A rigorous and competitive procurement exercise has been undertaken to procure the Quantity Surveyor, which has been endorsed by the Council’s Commercial Gateway Review Board (CGRB), the paper of which is appended to this report (Appendix B).

1.6.         The proposed commencement date of the contract is 26^th February 2024, further to conclusion of the standstill period. The anticipated end date of the contract is 31^st March 2030, which coincides with the end of the defect liability period of the new build.

1.7.         A JCT Consultancy Agreement with the Council’s standard amendments will be used, which will include the option to instruct work RIBA Stages 4 and 5 as Additional Services.

1.8.         Subject to approval of this report, officers will progress the appointment of the contracts.

2.     Recommendations

2.1.That the Appendices be exempt from publication under Section 100 (A) (4) and Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended) as it contains information which should be exempt from publication in that it contains information relating to the business and financial affairs of the authority and information in respect of which a claim to legal professional privilege could be maintained in legal proceedings under paragraph 5 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972; and in all the circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

2.2.That the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters approves:

·       Notes the tender result in the total sum of £779,865 for Stace LLP.

·       The contract award for Quantity Surveyor services with a contract value of £300,750 to Stace LLP, with the option in the contract to place orders for future RIBA stages, a total of up to £779,865

·       Spend of £300,750, up to the completion of RIBA Stage 4 and demolition works.

·       Notes that remaining spend of £479,115 for RIBA Stage 5 and budget requirement for subsequent stages will be addressed in the Outline Business Case and accompanying Cabinet Member Report for Ebury Phase 2, along with a refresh of the projects overall viability.

·       Delegates authority to the Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning (REP) to approve the options in the contract to place orders for future RIBA Stages up to a total contract value of £779,865 subject to budget confirmation and satisfactory completion of initial deliverables.

3.     Reasons for Decision

3.1. The reason for the recommendation is to secure fees and appoint a Quantity Surveyor to support the Technical Design, Demolition and Delivery of Ebury Phase 2.

3.2. The overarching objective of regenerating Ebury Bridge Estate is to create a comprehensive renewal that brings about physical, economic and sustainable change that creates additional homes and improves the lives of residents, businesses and visitors alike.

3.3. The proposed redevelopment of Ebury is in line with the Council’s ambitions for a Fairer Westminster and aims to deliver on the following objectives:

·       Re-provision of existing homes and explore opportunities to deliver high quality new homes of all tenures.

·       Construction of high quality and energy efficient sustainable new buildings which utilise cutting edge design and technological innovation.

·       Improvement to place shaping including play space, bio-diverse green space and enhancement of the public realm including increasing permeability and connectivity with the canal and surrounding areas.

·       Promoting a safer and vibrant neighbourhood, which encourages positive community interaction. 

·       Enhancing community assets and maximising impact through linking to wider provision in the surrounding area. 

·       Encouraging and facilitating strong public participation from the community in the design and development of the scheme. 

·       Increasing opportunities for employment and business growth and initiatives.

·       Responsible Procurement ensuring ethical treatment and consideration and mitigation of environmental impacts.

Authority to Finalise and Complete new lease

Executive Summary

1.     Officers seek delegated authority to complete a revised lease to Huckletree (Soho) Limited (‘Lease’), for the four floors of office accommodation at Ingestre Court and related lease documentation.

2.     The original intention was to complete a letting in 2018 following the previous granting of an Agreement for Lease, as approved by the then Cabinet Members for Business, Culture & Heritage, Finance, Property & Corporate Services, and Housing under a Decision Notice   dated 21 December 2017

3.     The proposed Lease fully reflects the current and improved rental value for the subject space, well in excess of the rent originally agreed and once granted will regularise the current occupation.  In addition, a substantial additional “arrears” payment has been negotiated to reflect the period of occupation by Huckletree up to the commencement date of the Lease.

4.      

4.1An agreed form of licence for alterations was attached to the agreement for lease. The licence records the council’s approval to Huckletree carrying out fitting out works at the property in a good and workmanlike manner and requires them to obtain all necessary consents such as planning permissions and buildings regs approvals. The licence also obliges the tenant to remove their works at the end of the term of the lease and reinstate the property to the reasonable satisfaction of the landlord.

4.2Under the agreement for lease the tenant was required to procure a warranty in favour of the council from the building contractor who was to carry out the agreed works to the property and from the certifying officer who was to issue the certificate of practical completion confirming that the works to the property had been completed. The warranties would provide a direct obligation from the contractor/certifying officer in favour of the council. In the event that there were defects in the works or it were to be considered that the certifying officer had incorrectly certified that the works had been completed then the council would have a direct contractual remedy against the contractor or certifying office through the warranty. In reality, the warranties are likely to be of relevance only if the lease to Huckletree were to come to an early end. While the lease to Huckletree is in existence they are responsible for keeping the property in good repair.

4.3A summary of the warranties being made available is set out in Appendix 1.

2.        Recommendation

2.1 That Appendix 1 be declared exempt from publication under paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended), as Appendix 1 contains information which should be exempt from publication in that it contains information relating to the business and financial affairs of the authority and in all the circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.

2.2 The Cabinet Member is recommended to:

(1)   Approve the grant of the lease to Huckletree (Soho) Limited (guaranteed by Huckletree Limited) at Ingestre Court: and

(2)   Delegate authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to finalise and to approve the terms of all the other related legal agreements at Ingestre Court..

3.      Reasons for Decision

The key reasons and rationale for supporting this decision are as follows: 

(1)  The grant of the Lease will enhance the income stream from the subject investment property and represents market value for the Council when considered alongside prevailing market levels as opposed to those which existed when terms were originally negotiated in 2017. 

(2)  The proposed additional “arrears” payment will cover all income that would have been due from 2018 for the period up to the commencement date of the Lease. 

(3)  Under the Lease the likely total rent received for the period 2018 to 2033 will significantly exceed that which would have previously been payable. 

(4)  Negotiations on behalf of the Council have been undertaken by Avison Young with regard to current market evidence in terms of prevailing rental values to ensure the Council achieves market value in accordance with the Act.

Appointment of Planning Consultant and Financial Viability Consultant for the Phase 2 of the Development 

1.     Executive Summary

1.1.         The regeneration of the Ebury Bridge Estate will provide more affordable housing and bring about the long-term physical, economic and social sustainability of the neighbourhood.

1.2.         The hybrid planning application for Ebury Phase 1 & 2 was originally approved on the 6^{th of} October 2021, with the amended application approved on the 21^{st of} July 2023.

1.3.         The proposed appointment of Savills(UK Limited) for Planning and Financial Viability Consultancy services sought within this report is consistent with the capital budget approved by full Council on 8^th March 2021. Cabinet Member approval is required as the value of the consultancy contract is over £300,000 (excl. VAT).

1.4.         The appointment of a Planning and Financial Viability Consultancy services is proposed to support Ebury Phase 2 and 3. Specifically, the appointment will provide the following scope of services:

·       Planning services will cover planning support on the Reserved Matters Application for the scheme and leading pre-application meetings with and on behalf of the Council, including various public consultation and engagement events.

·       The financial viability services will cover the commercial assessment of the scheme and collation of information related to cost, sale and other inputs to the financial viability.

1.5.         A rigorous and competitive procurement exercise has been undertaken to procure the Planning and Financial Viability Consultancy services, which has been endorsed by the Council’s Commercial Gateway Review Board (CGRB), the paper of which is appended to this report (Appendix B).

1.6.         The proposed commencement date of the contract is 12^th February 2024, further to conclusion of the standstill period. The anticipated end date of the contract is 12^th February 2025.

2.     Recommendations

2.1.That the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters: 

·       Approves the contract award for Planning and Financial Viability consultancy services for a contract value up to £139,580 (£167,496 incl. VAT) to Savills for RIBA Stage 3 onwards on Phase 2, which sits within the remaining approved budget of £148,000.

·       Notes CGRB have endorsed the tendered contract value for the full contract sum for Planning and Financial Viability consultancy services of £403,955 (excl. VAT) to Savills from RIBA Stage 3 onwards on Phase 2 and Phase 3.

·       Approval of the remaining spend will be addressed in the Outline Business Case and accompanying Cabinet Member Report for Ebury Phase 2, along with a refresh of the projects overall viability.

·       Once the Outline Business Case budget is approved, to delegate authority to the Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning (REP) up to the full contract value.

2.2.The proposed commencement date of the contract is 12^th February 2024, for a period of up to 12 months. Should the additional options be pursued, the maximum contract terms will be for a period of four years and three months.

2.3.A JCT Consultancy Agreement with the Council’s standard amendments will be used, which will include the option to suspend or terminate the contract at the end of each RIBA stage.

3.     Reasons for Decision

3.1. The reason for the recommendation is to secure fees and appoint a Planning and Financial Viability Consultant to support RIBA Stage 3 onwards on Ebury Phase 2 and lead on Ebury Phase 3.

3.2. The overarching objective of regenerating Ebury Bridge Estate is to create a comprehensive renewal that brings about physical, economic and sustainable change that creates additional homes and improves the lives of residents, businesses and visitors alike.

3.3. The proposed redevelopment of Ebury is in line with the Council’s ambitions for a Fairer Westminster and aims to deliver on the following objectives:

·       Re-provision of existing homes and explore opportunities to deliver high quality new homes of all tenures.

·       Construction of high quality and energy efficient sustainable new buildings which utilise cutting edge design and technological innovation.

·       Improvement to place shaping including play space, bio-diverse green space and enhancement of the public realm including increasing permeability and connectivity with the canal and surrounding areas.

·       Promoting a safer and vibrant neighbourhood, which encourages positive community interaction. 

·       Enhancing community assets and maximising impact through linking to wider provision in the surrounding area.

·       Encouraging and facilitating strong public participation from the community in the design and development of the scheme. 

·       Increasing opportunities for employment and business growth and initiatives.

·       Responsible Procurement ensuring ethical treatment and consideration and mitigation of environmental impacts.

Summary of Decision

That where there is no impediment to the client making payment; and where efforts to encourage the client to engage and settle debts have been exhausted, legal action be undertaken to pursue debt through the County Court, subject to the joint agreement of the respective Executive Directors for Finance & Resources and Adult Social Care & Public Health or their delegated representatives (Director of Revenues & Benefits / Bi-Borough Director Adult Social Care).

Reasons for Decision 

The Council will have exhausted the prescribed routes to encourage ASC Care clients to engage with it to settle their unpaid care contributions. The contributions will have been assessed in line with the Care Act at the point the client seeks care services from the Council. There will be no other option other than to take legal proceedings or to write off as a bad debt.

The consequence on the Council of writing off debt due simply due to service users’ refusal to pay can be far reaching and adversely impact the Council’s ability to continue to provide Adult Social Care services. The Council cannot and would not cease providing services to bad debtors simply due to their refusal to pay their assessed contributions. The Council also has a duty of fairness to all ASC clients assessed to contribute towards their care, to ensure all clients pay their contributions, and not only those clients who willingly co-operate and pay their invoices.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has:

1.              Approved in principle the acquisition of two parcels of land on Bishops Bridge Road.

2.              Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to:

a)    finalise the legal documentation as required (including the two land transfer deeds and the maintenance agreement); and

b)    approve the Council entering into the legal documentation as required in association with the acquisition of the Properties and related matters.

Reasons for Decision    

In respect of the recommendation to purchase the Properties, the May 2000 s106 agreement contained a requirement for the Council to serve notice on the developer (British Land) to acquire the land following completion of the bridge which occurred in 2006.  The Council served the notice on the Developer on 5 February 2007 however the transfer was not enacted. Despite the transfer not occurring, the Council have taken responsibility for the management and maintenance of the bridge/land since its completion. The (now two) owners of the land are seeking to regularise matters and transfer the land parcels in accordance with the terms of the S106 Agreement.  This will enable them to release the maintenance contribution to the Council, which they have been holding in reserve since 2006.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the principle of the granting of the lease on the terms set out in Appendix A of this report, and delegated authority to the Director of Corporate Property following consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and Resources, to approve the Council entering into a new lease and any ancillary legal agreements thereto.

Reasons for Decision

The granting of the lease is recommended to generate the optimum social value and financial outcome for the Council’s General Fund.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved all three bids for funding and awards the total funding requested of £428,803.10, pending agreement to planned monitoring plans for the measures and commitment from both applicants to sign the Sustainable City Charter. 

Reasons for Decision

The Carbon Offset Fund (COF) finances projects that deliver tangible, quantifiable, and transparent carbon savings across Westminster.

Summary of Decision

To award grants totalling £989,529 per annum over 3 years (total of £2,968,587 for the 3 years) to 54 organisations as listed in the report.

Reasons for Decision

The 3-year core funding programme gives the opportunity to strengthen and empower the vital work that the voluntary sector does in Westminster, and this decision implements the decision taken by Cabinet.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved:

1.     The contract award of the stage 2 contract for the refurbishment works at Seymour Leisure Centre to Wilmott Dixon Construction Ltd for a contract sum of £36,563,000 as set out in the FBC supporting the delivery of a multi-use community facility. 

2.     The revised project budget of £42.5million inclusive of fees and furniture, fixtures and equipment

3.     Contract variations to the following professional services contracts:

o   Architect

o   Project Manager

o   Services Engineer

o   Pre Construction Services Agreement (PCSA)

Reasons for Decision 

Renovation of the Seymour Leisure Centre has been considered for a number of years.  The current building is inefficient, and the environmental performance is suboptimal.

The council has committed to the relocation of Marylebone Library from its current leasehold base to a permanent new home within the Seymour Leisure Centre.  The creation of a new Seymour Leisure Centre provides further opportunity for combining other council services into a single council space and will be a flagship project to benefit the Council’s local community.

In order to progress the project now it is necessary to enter into contract with the Council preferred construction contractor.

The Council has already appointed an experienced design and consultancy team to progress the design of the refurbishment works.  The FBC has been prepared to give assurance over the viability of the proposals.

The council is satisfied that the redevelopment of Seymour Leisure Centre will enable its commitments to the Fairer Westminster strategy to be achieved.  This has been designed to ensure the Council to build a more inclusive city that celebrates its diverse communities, and where residents, workers and visitors from all backgrounds will feel welcome and safe.

To adopt the proposed Housing Compensation Policy.

Executive Summary

1. The Council has developed its first dedicated Housing Compensation Policy for Housing Services. The policy aims to provide a fairer approach to how we assess and award compensation when we fail to deliver a service for Westminster Housing tenants and leaseholders

Recommendation

1.     That the Cabinet Member for Housing Services has approved the Housing Compensation Policy as set out in Appendix 1.

Reasons for Decision

1. There is currently no Compensation Policy for Housing Services. The Housing Ombudsman expects social housing landlords to have a compensation policy for ex gratia payments as part of their complaint handling documentation to provide guidance on when they will consider offering discretionary compensation

2.     The Fairer Westminster Delivery Plan commits to delivering a Fairer Council, making it easier to find the information people need, and to be transparent, ethical and responsible in our engagement with residents.

3.     The production of a Compensation Policy is also part of the Housing Service’s commitment to improve complaint resolution and learning.

The proposed sale of a long leasehold in W1.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has delegated authority to the Director of Property, in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and the Director of Law as appropriate to approve the Council entering into a 250-year lease or any legal documents ancillary to or required to facilitate the disposal of the property. 

Reasons for Decision

The disposal is recommended as the purchaser is a special purchaser and without their interest it would have little or no economic value to the Council.  The sale enables a capital receipt to be realised.

The funds received from the disposal will be reinvested into Council services. 

Summary of Decision

The Executive Director, Regeneration, Economy and Planning has agreed to sign the Legal Documents listed below which are required to undertake the scheme Development:

1) BT Wayleave

2) Virgin Media Wayleave

3) Stopping Order for the Land (shown on the Plan attached).

4) Dedication Agreement – For the dedication of Highways Land (show on the Plan Attached)

5) Walkways Agreement in line with the requirements of the s106 Agreement

6) Over-sailing agreement for the land shown on the stopping up plan.

Reasons for Decision

This decision has been made in accordance with the authority delegated by the Cabinet Member Decision of 14 December 2021 ‘Appropriation of Land for Housing Purposes’.

Approval of recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) Review Panel to be held on 20 February 2024.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 20 February 2024.

Reasons for Decision 

The Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in the exempt Appendix A.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Communities, Children and Public Protection has approved:

1.       Revenue expenditure of £0.6m per annum for a period of five years for the implementation and operation of the service, subject to Budget approval at Full Council.

2.       The delegation of authority to develop and implement this service and associated policies and procedures, to the Executive Director of Environment, Climate and Public Protection in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Communities, Children and Public Protection.

Reasons for Decision 

The introduction of a CCTV service, focused on anti-social behaviour, noise and fly-tipping hotspots, which is monitored in real-time will be a powerful tool, which can be used in conjunction with a range of other interventions, to enable the Council to quickly identify and respond to ASB problems that are having a negative impact on our residential communities.

The estimated cost to implement the CCTV service is £0.6m per annum, with an initial capital cost of approximately £0.5m.

The Cabinet Member for Communities, Children and Public Protection is recommended to approve the proposals outlined in this report and the revenue expenditure necessary to implement the works, subject to budget approval at Full Council on 06 March 2024.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has agreed the ProposedDocuments for publicationunder Regulation19 of theTown and CountryPlanning LocalPlanning) (England)Regulations 2012attached as Appendices 1 - 7 to the report.

Reasonsfor Decision

To partially amend the adopted City Plan to provide a robust and up to date policy framework within the statutory local planfor thetaking ofplanning decisionsacross thecity anddelivery of Fairer Westminster commitments.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the extension of the current 100% council tax hardship relief that is currently automatically awarded to care leavers to include foster carers with a start date of 1 April 2023.

Reason for decision 

Extending the current 100% council tax hardship relief to include Foster Carers will assist with the current national shortage of foster carers. This also aligns with the Fairer Westminster strategy in valuing the work our carers do in making a difference to children’s lives.

Westminster Builds will acquire 35 1-bed homes for intermediate rent.

Summary of Decision

Westminster Builds (“WB”) is the trading name for the corporate entities of Westminster Housing Investments Limited (“WHIL”) and Westminster Housing Developments Limited (“WHDL”).

In December 2021, the Cabinet Members for Communities and Regeneration and Finance and Smart Cities approved the award of a contract to Wilmott Dixon for the construction of 112 homes and commercial space at 300 Harrow Road. These homes achieved practical completion on the 6^th and 9^th of November 2023.

The Council will provide housing management services to WHIL through a management contract. For an agreed fee, the Council will manage the tenancies and homes alongside the social rented homes retained by the Council. The estate and structure of the buildings will also be managed by WCC through the Corporate Landlord model and recharged to WHIL where necessary.

Reasons for Decision

The Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters has:

-          Approved the disposal of 35 intermediate rent homes (as defined in paragraph 5.1) at 300 Harrow Road by the Council to Westminster Housing Investments Limited (“WHIL”) for £7.8m on the terms set out in Appendix 1 of this report;

-          Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning to approve and authorise any and all legal documentation that may be required to facilitate the recommendation in 2.2.1, in one or more transactions;

-          Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Regeneration Economy and Planning to approve and to authorise the Housing Management Services Agreement, subject to agreed terms, between the Council and WHIL as set out in section 7 of this report and to approve the necessary legal documentation to be executed on the Council’s behalf thereto; and

-          Delegated authority to Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning to approve and to authorise entry into a deed of variation (or any future deeds of variation in relation to the site) by the Council as a landowner to the planning agreement to enable the intermediate housing units to be transferred to WHIL

Summary of Decision

That the Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development agrees to formally adopt the Planning Obligations and Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Document (POAH SPD) as a Local Development Document.

Reasons for Decision

To meet the requirements of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended), and the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012.

Adopting the Planning Obligations and Affordable Housing Supplementary Planning Document (POAH SPD) will give it full weight as a material consideration in decisions on planning applications.

To ensure that the policies in the adopted City Plan (2021) contribute effectively to the council’s vision for a fairer, more inclusive Westminster. This is ahead of forthcoming changes to the City Plan polices as part of the Partial City Plan Review.

Cabinet agreed that the minutes of the meeting held on 29 January 2024 were a true and correct record of the proceedings.

The Annual Treasury Management Strategy Statement sets out the Council’s strategy for ensuring thatits capital investment plans are prudent, affordable and sustainable, and itscash balances are appropriately invested to generate optimum returns having regard to security and liquidity of capital.

Cabinet approved the following recommendations to Full Council for consideration at its meeting on 6 March 2024:

• Approve the Treasury Management Strategy Statement
• Approve the borrowing strategy and borrowing limits for 2024/25 to 2028/29
• Approve the Prudential Indicators
• Approve the Annual Investment Strategy and approved investments
• Approve the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy set out in Appendix 2; 
• Approve the delegation of authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to proceed with: 
  • the obtaining of a credit rating as set out in the report; and 
  • to appoint Link Group, a Treasury consultant, for the purposes of obtaining that rating. 

Reasons for Decision

The Treasury Management Strategy Statement is an annual report which complies with the Local Government Act 2003, other regulations, and guidance and to ensure that the Council’s borrowing and investment plans are prudent, affordable and sustainable and comply with statutory requirements.

2024/25 Housing Revenue Account 30-YearBusiness Plan and Housing Investment Plan  

Cabinet approved the following recommendations to Full Council for consideration at its meeting on 6 March 2024:

·       Approve the HRA revenue budget for 2024/25

·       Note the HRA 5-year revenue budgets for 2024/25 to 2028/29and HRA 30-year revenue budgets for 2024/25 to 2053/

·       Approve the HRA 5-year Capital Programme totalling £920.52m

·       Note the 30-year Capital Programme for 2024/25 to 2053/54 totalling £2.493bn

·       Approve the inclusion of all Fairer Westminster investments, including the extension of the HRA Rent Support Fund by £1.050m for 2024/25 (to be earmarked to support tenants experiencing financial difficulty during the cost-of-living crisis) 

·       Approve a rent increase of 7.7% from 1^st April 2024 in line with the maximum increase for social rent set by the national rent policy, whilst noting that the Council continues to exercise its discretion under the rent restructuring policy to set rents for re-lets (both new tenants and transfers) up to formula target rent

·       Approve an increase of 6.7% to the fees charged for garages, sheds and parking (in line with CPI at September 2023) from 1^st April 2024 

·       Approve that tenant service charges be varied in line with estimated actual costs for 2024/25 from 1^st April 2023 

·       Note the HRA reserves and balances for the 5-year Business Plan

Reasons for Decision

The Council is required to set a budget for the HRA and prepare a 30-Year Business Plan for the HRA on an annual basis. The report also provides the approval needed to set HRA tenant rents and other charges for the financial year 2024/25. It also outlines how the Housing Investment Plan supports the delivery of the Council’s Fairer Westminster vision, including its commitment to deliver new affordable homes whilst maintaining the condition of the existing housing portfolio. 

To sign off the Council’s Pay Policy for 2024-25 

Cabinet approved the following recommendations to Full Council for consideration at its meeting on 6 March 2024:

·       Approve the Pay Policy Statement 2024/25

Reasons for Decision

The Council is required to publish its Pay Policy by 31 March every year, which brings together all of the Council’s existing policies on pay and must include details in relation to all aspects of Chief Officer’s remuneration, increases and additions to remuneration, bonuses, termination payments and remuneration on recruitment.

The Council has a proposed gross capitalprogramme up to 2037/38 of £2.629bn, partiallyoffset by £1.216bn of income, giving a netbudget of £1.413bn – which is to be funded by 

borrowing. The cost of borrowing has been builtinto the revenue implications of the capitalstrategy. 

Cabinet approved the following recommendations to Full Council for consideration at its meeting on 6 March 2024: 

·       To approve the capital strategy as set out in this report. 

·       To approve the capital expenditure for the General Fund as set out in Appendix A for 2024/25 to 2028/29 and future years to 2037/38. 

·       To approve that all development and investment projects, along with all significant projects follow the previously approved business case governance process as set out in section 8 of this report. 

·       To approve that no financing sources, unless stipulated in regulations or necessary agreements, are ring fenced. 

·       To approve the proposed financing of the capital programme and revenue implications as set out in section 12 of this report.

·       To delegate to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources the decisions surrounding financing of the capital programme to provide sufficient flexibility to allow for the most effective use of the Council’s resources. 

Reasons for Decision

The Council produces a capital strategy annually, the objectives of which are to objectives of this capital strategy are to prioritise and co-ordinate funding to achieve the Council’s Fairer Westminster vision; ensure that capital resources are directed to maintain the Council’s statutory requirements across its asset base; invest in the most beneficial projects to meet Westminster’s long-term requirements; and manage investment effectively and efficiently.

The annual budget report sets out the recommendation for Council Tax setting for 2024/25, the overall budget position for 2024/25 and estimates underpinning financial planning over the medium-term.   

Cabinet approved the following recommendations to Full Council for consideration at its meeting on 6 March 2024: 

Council Tax 

1. That the Council Tax for a Band D be agreed at £501.76 for 2024/25 

2. That subject to the consideration of the previous recommendation, the council tax for the City of Westminster, excluding the Montpelier Square area and Queen’s Park Community Council, for the year ending 31 March 2025, be as specified in the Council Tax Resolution in Appendix 1  

3. That the Precepts and Special Expenses be as also specified in Appendix 1 for properties in Montpelier Square and the Queen’s Park Community Council 

4. That the formal resolution for 2024/25 attached at Appendix 1 including the council tax requirement of £68.889m be agreed 

5. Note the proposed Greater London Authority precept (Band D) of £471.40, an increase of £37.26 in the adjusted Band D precept 

6. That the Council continues the Westminster Community Contribution scheme to allow residents in the City to voluntarily contribute towards supporting discretionary services that support the three priorities of youth services, helping rough sleepers off the streets and supporting people who are lonely and isolated. 

Revenue Budget 

7. To note the views of the Scrutiny Budget Task Group set out in Appendix 2 

8. That the proposed General Fund net budget requirement of £205.545m summarised in Appendix 3 is approved 

9. That the savings, pressures and investments for 2024/25 to 2026/27 set out in Appendix 4, 5 and 6, are approved 

10. That the Equality Impact Assessments included in Appendix 7 are noted to inform the consideration of the budget 

11. Note the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan 2024/25 and 30 Year Housing Investment Plan presented concurrently to Cabinet on 19 February 2024 that recommends the HRA budget and rent levels for 2024/25 

Capital Programme 

12. Note the Capital Strategy 2024/25 to 2028/29, forecast position for 2023/24 and future years’ forecasts summarised up to 2037/38 report also presented to Cabinet on 19 February 2024 that recommends the Council’s capital programme and financing 

Reserves, Balances and Budget Estimates 

13. Agree the reserves policy as set out in section 9 

14. Note the opinion of the Section 151 Officer with regards to the robustness of the budget process, the estimates underpinning the budget and the adequacy of the reserves as set out in Appendix 8 as required by S25 of the Local Government Act 2003

Treasury Management and Investment Framework 

15. Note the Treasury Management Strategy for 2024/25 including the annual investment strategy, borrowing limits and prudential indicators summarised in this report and set out detail in a concurrent report on this agenda. 

16. Note the 2024/25 Integrated Investment Framework report also concurrently on this agenda, which sets out the policies and framework for future investment decisions for the Council. 

Fairer Westminster Delivery Plan 

17. Note the summary of the delivery actions for the Fairer Westminster Delivery Plan 2024/25 provided in Section 4. The full approved version of the 2024/25 Delivery Plan will be published in mid-March. 

Reasons for Decision

The Council has a statutory requirement to set a balanced budget and submit a budget return to central government. This report sets council tax for the forthcoming financial year and approves the Council’s medium-term plan for the next four years and the budget for the 2024/25 financial year.

A consolidated summary of the council’s investment activity.

Cabinet approved the following recommendations to Full Council for consideration at its meeting on 6 March 2024:

·       approve and implement the Integrated Investment Framework set out in this report; 

·       approve that the target for the overall return on Council investments should aspire to at least meet forecasts for inflation over the medium term; 

·       approve that the benefits of investing in the Pension Fund should be used as a benchmark when evaluating other investments; 

·       adopt the asset allocation percentage ranges set out in the framework and work towards achieving these; 

·       agree that the overarching objective of this framework is to achieve an overall return on Council investments, matching CPI inflation over the medium term, and to reduce costs and liabilities, while maintaining adequate cash balances for operational purposes, and not exposing the capital value of investments to unnecessary risk; 

·       Agree that assets must only be acquired for strategic purposes. Such prospective acquisitions must be considered individually, with the reasons for investment limited to regeneration or development of the location, or other strategic purposes in which the asset is established. Out-of-borough acquisitions may also be considered by exception; 

·       the Investment Executive to implement, monitor and report on the investment strategy.  

Reasons for Decision

The Integrated Investment Framework is an annual report which influences investment decisions going forwards to deliver added value to Council services by identifying the potential for future improved returns.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters has approved the Council entering into the varied Edgware Road Borough Intervention agreement.

Reasons for Decision 

Converting the loan to non-repayable grant results in additional funding which supports WCC’s strategic approach to deliver affordable homes in the city, including social rented homes.

Removing the Orchardson Street Homes from the agreement will allow additional grant funding to be sought under the GLA’s Affordable Homes programme and will therefore further support scheme and programme viability.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has approved the following contract awards:

The Cabinet Member has agreed not to award Lot 1 (Property) & Lot 9 (Residential leasehold buildings) at this time and will be subject to a further tender process as detailed in paragraphs 4.25-4.28 of the report.

The Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform has delegated authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources to subsequently approve the award of Lots 1 and 9, noting they need to be in place prior to 1 April 2024.

Reasons for Decision 

In respect of the award of leasehold buildings insurance the Council needs to award a contract of insurance to comply with the Council’s legal obligations under the leasehold agreement entered into at the time of sale of the lease to the leaseholders the covenant to insure their asset and ensure the relevant portion of the Councils freehold is insured.

In respect of the award of Property insurance this is to provide funds to reinstate Council assets following damage by insured perils, in the absence of which the financial costs of re-instatement would place considerable or impossible financial demands upon the Council.

In respect of the award of Combined Liability Insurance this is to indemnify the Council against legal costs and damages arising from legal claims against the Council in Negligence, Nuisance, Libel, and Slander. The absence of which would place considerable or impossible financial demands upon the Council.

It is a requirement of the Public Contract Regulations 2015 that these insurance contracts are competitively procured and as established above, the non-purchase of insurance coverage would result in uncapped financial exposures for the Council and for which the potential value of losses could exceed reserves. Prudence would therefore dictate purchase of insurance to mitigate against this and to comply with statutory requirements.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved formal spend approval totalling £1,946,802 to undertake canal wall repairs and refurbishment of the public open space at Harrow Road Open Space as outlined in Appendix A of the report.

Reason for Decision

The recommendations in this paper will lead to a significant improvement to the public space at Harrow Road Open Space, opposite Queens Park Library. It will also resolve long-standing issues with the Canal Wall at this location which if remain could lead to significant future challenges for Westminster City Council.

The project responds to key community aspirations and priorities set out in the Queens Park Neighbourhood Plan. It will also support the local high street by providing an important space of respite alongside the Harrow Road, facilitate improvements in biodiversity within an area of deficiency and ensure accessibility improvements are made to the open space to ensure equal access for everybody.

A Cabinet Member Decision is required in accordance with the Scheme of Delegation due to the value of the decision.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member Report of 06 December 2023 delegated:

·       Authority to the Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy, and Planning (REP) to approve other Professional Services and associated costs and contingency totalling £3.44m, subject to no individual contract exceeding £300k.

·       The approval to spend of contracts less than £300k.

This report records the decisions taken under this delegated authority.

Reasons for Decision

As per 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 of the Cabinet Member report:

·       The reason for the recommendation is to secure fees and appoint the design team to enable design development to be progressed and produce the Outline Business Case in Spring 2025. 

·       To support design development, the following core MDCT consultants are required to provide technical and specialist support: Architect, Project Manager, Cost Consultant, Structural & Civil Engineer, Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) Engineer, Planning Consultant and Landscape Architect.

The proposed redevelopment of 291 Harrow Road is in line with the Council’s ambitions for a Fairer Westminster and aims to deliver on the following objectives:  

·       Re-provision of existing homes and explore opportunities to deliver high quality new homes of all tenures including Truly Affordable Homes and specialist housing such as Learning Disability housing. 

·       Improvement to place shaping including play space, bio-diverse green space and enhancement of the public realm including increasing permeability and connectivity with the canal and surrounding areas. 

·       Construction of high quality and energy efficient sustainable new buildings which utilise cutting edge design and technological innovation. 

·       Promoting a safer and vibrant neighbourhood, which encourages positive community interaction.   

·       Enhancing community assets and maximising impact through linking to wider provision in the surrounding area.   

·       Encouraging and facilitating strong public participation in community participation in the design and development of the scheme.   

·       Encouraging and enhancing the local economy through the Creative Enterprise Zone. 

·       Increasing opportunities for employment and business growth and initiatives.

·       Responsible Procurement ensuring ethical treatment and consideration and mitigation of environmental impacts. 

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 23 January 2024 and determines the applications for NNDR Discretionary and Hardship relief set out in Appendix A.

Reasons for Decision

The Rating Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in Appendix A.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member report dated 19 January 2024 delegated authority to the Executive Director REP in consultation with the Director of Legal to enter into the Development Agreement and Agreement for Lease for Block H1 Lease and Block H2 Leases (x13) and all associated legal documents required by the recommendations of the report.

Reasons for Decision

To enable the Council to purchase 45 affordable homes under the agreed terms of the Development Agreement and Agreement for Lease.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Housing Services has agreed:

1.     The approach to social lettings set out in section 8 of the report and Appendix B 

2.     The changes to the Allocation Scheme outlined in section 6 of the report

3.     The updated Accommodation Procurement Policy Action Plan 2023/24 in Appendix D.

Reasons for Decision 

The council’s Housing Allocation Scheme is read alongside the annual Supply and Allocation of Social Housing Report, which sets out the proportion of social housing the council expects to let to the different groups in need. These lettings projections are needed to guide the approach to lettings during the year. 

The Report is also needed in order to consider and update wider policies relating to the allocation of social and private housing for households on the council’s housing register and to update any policy changes in relation to intermediate housing.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has delegated the approval of the 25 March 2022 upward only rent review with Barclays PLC and signing of Rent Review Memoranda to the Executive Director of Finance and Resources.

Reasons for Decision

Under the WCC constitution Cabinet Member approval is required where the rent under consideration is in excess of £125,000 per annum which applies in this case.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member has approved the write-off of debts over £100k, having taken all appropriate action.

The amounts shown in paragraph 6.4 as written-off under officer delegated authority, have been noted.

Reasons for Decision 

The recommendation to write-off the amounts detailed in this report is proposed as all other avenues available to the Council for the recovery of these debts have been exhausted, including, where appropriate, the issue of court and distress proceedings.

Summary of Decision

That the Cabinet Member approves the recommendations of the Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel meeting of 16 January 2024

Reasons for Decision 

The Discretionary Housing Payment Review Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in Appendix A, which are more fully set out in the case papers submitted to the Panel.

Cabinet agreed that the minutes of the meeting held on 11 December 203 were a true and correct record of the proceedings.

The annual review by Cabinet of the report of the independently chaired Safeguarding Adults Executive Board 

Cabinet approved the following recommendations:

·       Considered the Annual Report 2022/23 of the Safeguarding Adults Executive Board (SAEB), with particular regard to the arrangements that have been put in place to meet the requirements of the Care Act 2014.

Reasons for decision

The report is the 2022/23 Annual Report of the Safeguarding Adult Executive Board (SAEB) who provide the leadership for adult safeguarding across Westminster and RBKC, and complies with the Council’s statutory duty to publish an annual report which includes business plan for the year and any Safeguarding Adult reviews.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Voluntary Sector has approved the contract award for the delivery of School Health (School Nursing) Services to Central & North West London (NHS Foundation Trust).

The total sum is for £5,924,800 (£7,109,760 including VAT*) for the period February 2024 to January 2027, with the option to extend for an additional period of 2 years at an additional cost of £4,288,029 (£5,145,634 including VAT*).

The full contract term is for 5 years (3+2) at a total contract value of £10,212,829 (£12,255,394 including VAT*).

*To note that VAT is for reference only and is not payable for this service.

Reasons for Decision

The current contract is delivered by Central and North West London NHS Trust (CNWL) and has been in place since 1 April 2017.

The original award was for a period of five years which expired 31 August 2022. A further direct award was granted for 12 months, to align with the end of the academic year, that expired on 31 August 2023. This direct award was endorsed by the Commercial Gateway Review Board (CGRB).

The current service is currently operating out of contract as there is no agreed scope for a further extension or variation.  As this is a statutory service, there can be no gap in delivery and consequently the service has been operating at risk whilst the re-tendering process took place.  There are no issues or concerns with the performance or service delivery of the current service. Risks associated with being out of contract are being mitigated by continual performance monitoring, in line with the original contract, and by expediting the execution of the new contract as a matter of urgency. 

That Cabinet: 

1.     Approves net changes of £67.181m for individual projects as part of the 2023/24 GF capital budget.  

2.     Approves re-profiling of £36.875m for individual projects as part of the 2023/24 HRA capital budget.  

3.     Approves the Place Shaping Virement of £3.064m.  

Cabinet approved the following recommendations:

·       Approved net changes of £67.181m for individual projects as part of the 2023/24 GF capital budget

·       Approved re-profiling of £36.875m for individual projects as part of the 2023/24 HRA capital budget.

·       Approved the Place Shaping Virement of £3.064m.

Reasons for decision

This report requests approval for changes to the profiles and/or budgets of several capital schemes have been identified as likely to have changed delivery profiles and thus led to in year variances to budget, as well as others that have reported as either likely to under or overspend.

The decision seeks approval for the next steps of the project to revitalise Regent Street and Haymarket. 

Cabinet approved the following recommendations:

·       Noted the findings from the 'Future of Regent Street' ("Regent Street") engagement, and approve the vision and project priorities to guide the development of the public realm design from All Souls to Regent’s Crescent.

·       Approved the partner requirements for Regent Street to make financial contributions totalling £1,786,000 (£893K each) to continue to progress the first phase ("Phase 1") of the project.

·       Noted the work to date by The Crown Estate on the vision and priorities for Haymarket District Plan and the planned development investment for this part of the West End, and agree to extend the scope of the Regent Street project to include Haymarket, Charles II Street, Jermyn Street East and Pall Mall East public realm ("Haymarket"), and to consider proposals for Piccadilly Circus and Pall Mall East as part of a second phase ("Phase 2") of the project.

·       Approved the partner requirements for Haymarket and Piccadilly Circus to secure financial contributions totalling £2,200,000 (£1.1m each) to continue to progress Haymarket and Piccadilly Circus ("Phase 2b") of the project, and agree that the £4m capital funding approved by Full Council on 8 March 2023 for Regent Street can also be utilised for this Phase.

·       Approved the concept of piloting and testing of ideas for the Regent Street and Haymarket projects to support the evidence-based approach for the public realm and highways design. The implementation of any pilots will be delegated to the Director of City Highways in conversation with the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality.

·       Delegated any decisions relating to the above scope to the Cabinet Member for City Management and Air Quality leading up to the public consultation in 2025 on the final public realm proposals for Phases 1 and 2.

Reasons for decision

This report approves the next steps for a permanent public realm scheme for Regent Street and Haymarket, following extensive public engagement undertaken by the Council and the Crown Estate in summer 2023.

Summary of Decision

That the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters endorses the Updated OBC as set out in Appendix 1 and its conclusion that joint venture partner delivery, on appropriate terms, remains the preferred option for the delivery of Church Street Site A.

Reasons for Decision

The Council has undertaken a procurement of a joint venture partner for the delivery of Church Street Site A in line with the recommendations of the Original OBC. Before the outcome of that procurement, the Council considered it appropriate to revisit this decision, given the amount of time elapsed since the Original OBC was prepared and resulting change in market and policy environment, to confirm it remains the preferred option for the delivery of Church Street. This is a prudent approach particularly ahead of significant decision points.

Summary of Decision

The City Council responds to defects in the public highway to different timescales depending on the seriousness of the defect. Response times vary from between 2 hours and 10 weeks

In recent months the number of P2 defects (48-hour response), have increased significantly. This is undesirable as responding to defects within 48 hours is more expensive and can be less efficient. Introducing a new 14-Day defect response period will ease the pressure on P2 numbers and provide the Inspectors with an alternative option between 28 days and 48 hours to correct defects in the highway.

Reasons for Decision

The introduction of the 14-Day defect response time allows for effective management and programme of Highways works, will ease the pressure on delivering an increasing number of 48-hour defects and provide mitigation for  an estimated £60,000 cost increase if the new priority is not introduced.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has agreed:

   i.          That the recommendations of the Examiner as set out in the Council’s Decision Statement (refer to Appendix 1) and Examiner’s Report (refer to Appendices 3 and 4) be accepted.

 ii.          That in accordance with the Examiner’s recommendation, the Belgravia Neighbourhood Plan (refer to Appendix 2) and accompanying Belgravia Design Codes (refer Appendix 2A), as modified within the Examiner’s Report, proceed to local referendum.

iii.          That in accordance with the Examiner’s recommendation, the referendum area be restricted to the Neighbourhood Area designated by the Council on 27 March 2014 as the Belgravia Neighbourhood Area.

iv.          That in the event of a positive referendum result, the Executive Director of Innovation and Change be authorised to publish an Adoption Statement and formally ‘make’ (adopt) the plan.

Reasons for Decision

The Examiner’s recommendations will ensure the Belgravia Neighbourhood Plan is clear and effective as a framework for making decisions on planning applications in the Belgravia Neighbourhood Area.

The recommendations address the concerns raised by the Council during consultation and the subsequent examination, as well as matters raised by a number of other stakeholders during consultation. The cumulative effect of these modifications is that the plan is considered to meets the ‘basic conditions’ prescribed by legislation and discussed in greater detail Section 4 below.

Before a neighbourhood plan can be made, it is a statutory requirement that it is first subject to local referendum within the Neighbourhood Area, as well as any additional areas as considered appropriate by the Examiner. Before this happens, the Council must publish a Decision Statement setting out the actions it proposes to take in response to the Examiner’s Report. Where the Council decides to proceed to referendum, in the case of a successful majority vote in favour of the plan, the Council must formally ‘make’ the plan.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Voluntary Sector has:

1.      Approved the direct award of contracts for the 4 services confirmed below from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2025, with a break clause at 30 September 2024:

ii)          Elmfield Way – Yarrow

iii)         Cambridge Gardens – London Cyrenians

iv)         Queens Park – First and Fifth Avenue – Yarrow

v)          Lapworth Court – Support for Living / Certitude.

2.     Noted the expenditure from 1 April 2023 to 31 January 2024. The existing contracts expired on 31 March 2023 therefore the current suppliers are working at risk.

3.     Approve a waiver of the Procurement Code from the requirement to undertake a competitive tendering exercise in order to directly award the aforementioned contracts.

Reasons for Decision 

The Council has a statutory duty under the Care Act 2014 to:

·     Ensure appropriate personalised care and support to meet the individual assessed needs of Service Users

·     Maximise independence, focusing on choice and control for people in receipt of Learning Disability Services

·     Ensure consistency and continuity of care, minimising service disruption for vulnerable adults with learning disabilities living in the community.

These direct awards will meet these aims and provide the necessary time to complete the development of a framework for the tendering of these services.

Under the Council’s Scheme of Delegation, a Cabinet Member Decision is required due to the value of the contracts.

Cabinet approved the following recommendations:

·       Approve the inclusion of ‘Care Leaver’ to be taken into account alongside the nine protected characteristics already legislated for in the Equality Act 2010.

·       Note that Westminster City Council’s senior leaders will work together to providing enhanced work experience, apprenticeship, and employment opportunities as part of their corporate parenting responsibilities, including cognising their particular needs systematically as part of EQIAs and ensuring that they are considered across all strategies, responsible procurement and commissioned contracts.

·       Note the commencement of a programme of work which includes:

o   Reviewing our EQIA and Equalities programming (internal and corporate) to include care leavers

o   Adapting our EQIAs to include consideration of care leaver status

o   Reviewing and adapting recruitment policies and procedures in order to guarantee care leaver applicants an interview where when they meet the essential criteria for a role being advertised

o   That every Directorate commits to providing mentoring, work experience and apprenticeship opportunities to care leavers

Reasons for decision:

As corporate parents, it is the Council’s collective responsibility to support children that have been in our care to ensure they receive the same opportunities that we would want for our own children. This support should include the promotion of good health and education, nurturing talent and providing stability, thus enabling successful adult lives.

Services across the Council will commit to providing opportunities and support to young adults with care experience to improve their outcomes and show a genuine and demonstrable commitment to supporting them to develop skills in order to thrive. This will require some time and effort on the part of Westminster’s leaders and staff to ensure that those leaving our care are continually championed and supported to achieve in all areas.

Westminster City Council will explicitly and systematically recognise ‘Care Leaver’ as a consideration, alongside the nine protected characteristics already legislated for in the Equality Act 2010. In doing so the Council can monitor and measure the impact that it is having to support those leaving our care in their life journey and make appropriate arrangements or adjustments to provide this support.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters has:

·                Approved the acquisition of 45 affordable homes at West End Gate Block H from Berkeley Homes for the price set out in Appendix A, on the terms in Appendix C.

·                Approved further spend of £400,000 to meet legal costs, monitoring costs and specification changes required to match those on earlier phases.

·                Approved expenditure from the central contingency to fund this acquisition, noting that the draft budget 2024/25 includes a line item for the scheme. (Further details set out in Appendix A)

·                Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Regeneration, Economy and Planning in consultation with the Director of Legal to enter into the Development Agreement, Agreement for Lease, Block H1 Lease and Block H2 Leases (x13) and all associated legal documents required by the recommendations of this report.

Reasons for Decision

The Council has acquired 130 homes across the earlier phases of West End Gate which have provided high quality homes for residents and an opportunity to decant existing social tenants from Church Street Site A. The 45 under construction in Block H would complement these homes, providing more decant opportunities and high-quality Council managed homes near Church Street.

The homes are required to be built by Berkeley as a S106 obligation, regardless of whether the Council acquires them or not, with nomination rights for the Council. However, by acquiring them the Council can ensure high quality management to its residents and has been able to influence the type of tenancies and procured a further variation to the S106 agreement to convert the 33 shared ownership homes into London Living Rent. A deed of variation to the s.106 will need to be entered into and it will be a condition of the Agreement for Lease. Berkeley must satisfy this condition before the Council completes the acquisition. If Berkeley do not satisfy this condition within one year of exchange the deposit (detailed below) shall be returned to the Council and the Development Agreement shall be terminated.

Further to the above, the Council can convert the larger homes from intermediate rent to social rent increasing the total provision on the site. To avoid undue delay and complication, the Council will implement this after entering into contract with Berkeley but before the end of construction.

The average acquisition cost as set out in Appendix A is less than the cost of self-building and therefore represents value for money. The Council has significant waiting time on larger homes and converting intermediate rent to social will provide much needed permanent social housing.

Summary of Decision

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development has agreed:

       i.          To re-designate the Mayfair Neighbourhood Forum for a further period of five years; and

     ii.          To authorise the Executive Director of Innovation and Change to formally publish a designation notice.

Reasons for Decision 

Section 61F(7) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, as inserted into that Act by Schedule 9 of the Localism Act 2011, sets out the conditions that a Neighbourhood Forum must meet, as well as the considerations that a local planning authority must take into account when determining an application for the designation of a Neighbourhood Forum. These legislative aspects are set out in greater detail in Section 6 of this report.

This legislation states that a local planning authority may designate an organisation or body as a Neighbourhood Forum if the authority is satisfied that a number of conditions have been met. The existing Mayfair Neighbourhood Forum (the Forum) meets all of these conditions, and there has been no change in this since the original designation.

The City Council is also required to have regard to whether membership is drawn from different places in the applicable Neighbourhood Area and from different sections of the community in that area. The application submitted by the Forum indicates their membership consists of 630 members, comprised of a mixture of residents, businesses, organisations, land owners and community associations. It is therefore considered that the Forum satisfies this requirement in that it represents the interests of a diverse and representative group drawn from the designated Neighbourhood Area.

The City Council is also required to assess whether the purpose of the Neighbourhood Forum reflects, in general terms, the character of the area. The submitted application for re-designation states that the Forum was established to promote and improve the social, economic, and environmental well-being of Mayfair through the production of a Neighbourhood Plan along with following on to deliver on that plan. The Mayfair Neighbourhood Plan became formally ‘made’ on 24 December 2019, meaning it was adopted as part of Westminster’s statutory development plan and is operational in the designated Neighbourhood Area for the purposes of assessing planning applications. This demonstrates that the Forum has fulfilled their primary objectives in preparing and having adopted a Neighbourhood Plan for their area, with the focus now shifting to delivering the plan through implementation and monitoring.

Consultation on the re-designation of the Mayfair Neighbourhood Forum resulted in no objections or competing applications.

This decision will seek approval for the latest investments to support the cost of living for those living in Westminster.

Summary of Decision

The Leader of the Council has approved: 

1.     That the council invests a further £1m in cost-of-living projects starting from April 2024 to address the ongoing crisis.

2.     That Phase 1 projects from the £1m amounting to £367,779 are agreed and that the Executive Directors of Finance Resources and Innovation and Change have the delegated authority to manage these individual allocations and to make any necessary changes to them.

3.     That agreement for the remaining allocation of the £1m is made in two further phases as set out in Section 5 and is delegated to the Executive Directors of Finance Resources and Innovation and Change, in agreement with the relevant Cabinet Members. The Executive Directors will also have the delegated authority to manage these individual allocations and make any necessary changes to them.  

Reasons for Decision   

While there are national interventions to address the cost-of-living crisis, as Section 4 shows, there is still a crisis and living costs will outstrip national support in 2024/2025 making further intervention necessary to help households most at risk.  

The projects put forward in Phase 1, which use 38% of the funding, will ensure that vital advice and food support services can continue in 2024 / 2025 to meet the ongoing high demand. Funding for a dedicated post also ensures that cost-of-living projects can continue to be delivered.

Two further phases are needed to allocate the remainder of the £1m as it is uncertain whether there will be a further Household Support Fund in 2024 / 2025, and this will affect how it is spent. It is also needed to ensure the right interventions are in place for Winter 2024 which won’t be known until later in the year.

That the cabinet member recommends to Council that the proposed Safer Westminster Partnership Strategy for 2024-27 be approved

Summary of Decision

That the cabinet member:

1.     Notes the content of the report and the ongoing contribution of the Safer Westminster Partnership to crime and disorder issues in the borough and the overarching themes and priorities for the partnership.

2.     Recommend to Council that the proposed Safer Westminster Partnership Strategy for 2024-27 be approved.

Reasons for Decision

The Fairer Westminster Strategy sets out the outcomes and key ambitions which inform decisions at the Council; delivering safer streets is one of these but we cannot achieve this on our own.  The Safer Westminster Partnership Strategy seeks to ensure the Council and partner agencies work together to make Westminster safer for everyone who lives, works, and visits the borough.

The Crime and Disorder Act 1998 sets out the requirement for responsible agencies, including Westminster City Council, to work together in formulating a strategy to reduce crime and disorder in an area.

Additionally, the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, placed a duty on specified authorities to work together and plan to prevent and reduce serious violence in their area.  The Safer Westminster Partnership Strategy is the means through which we are discharging that duty.

The proposed strategy will replace the existing strategy (2020-23) with a clearer focus on a smaller number of priority areas, and a greater emphasis on engaging with and ensuring local communities have a voice in tackling crime and disorder priorities in their area.

To consider additonal payment options.

Executive Summary

The last review of major works service charge payment plans was undertaken in January 2023. Following this the Cabinet Member for Housing Services extended the 60-month payment plan to 120 months (60 months interest free, with up to an additional 60 months, subject to interest). As part of this review a discretionary service charge loan option was also introduced enabling leaseholders to pay their major works service charge invoice using a legal charge against the property and to make payment over a period up to 25 years, subject to interest.

Summary of Decision

1.  The Cabinet Member for Housing Services has agreed to the introduction of the ‘Voluntary Service Charge Loan’ payment option for leaseholders.
2. The Voluntary Service Charge Loan will complement the existing payment plans available to our leaseholder and will allow a charge to be placed on the property. The capital sum and any interest will only be repaid when the property is sold (assigned). The fee to set up the loan and to register the charge against the property can also be added to the loan
3. The Cabinet Member for Housing Services has agreed to the eligibility criteria (paragraph 4.6) and the recommendations from Finance (paragraphs 5.1 – 5.8) as to which bill range is sustainable

Summary of Decision

That the Cabinet Member approves the recommendations of the Rating Advisory Panel held on 12 December 2023 and determines the applications for NNDR Discretionary and Hardship relief set out in Appendix A.

Reasons for Decision

The Rating Advisory Panel has set out the reasons for the recommendations in each case considered by the Panel in the recommendations in Appendix A.